Happy new year
Is Web 2.0 an evolution ? A revolution ? Or simply millions of people scared shitless of ActiveX, exe files and crazy Applets ?
Services such as Hotmail and Gmail are a success because many people move around. From the school computer to the web cafe to a friends house. Social aspects power the need for transient software that is available from everywhere at any time. So is the desktop dead ? No, ofcourse not. The desktop creates a sense of security and comfort. It's mine, mine alone and very powerful. The subway does not replace the car, it just reduces the need for one. Powerful mobile phones will make this even more obvious. Your desktop can be on your phone. No need to use someone else's computer anymore. But since people loose their cellphones all the time, Web 2.0 services again become the preferred storage option.
Anyway, if you want to learn more about what is happening out there then try out these two links. Techcrunch covers the VC/business angle and The Museum of Modern Betas covers the most popular Web 2.0 links posted on del.icio.us.
May this new year give us strength and deeper wisdom.