We almost had a smartphone in the 90s. Why did it fail?
In the early 90’s, a company called General Magic began working on a portable device that would allow people to check email, make phone calls, even play games. It was basically a smartphone. But it never caught on. On today’s show, a theory about why this device failed. General Magic had generous investors, world-class talent and creative freedom. But is it possible what they needed was constraints? Support: Planet Money+ Read: Our book: Planet Money: A Guide to the Economic Forces That Shape Yo
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We almost had a smartphone in the 90s. Why did it fail?
Welcome to the program. I'm your host.
Welcome to the program. I'm your host.
0:00Today we look at the major stories shaping the news cycle.
Today we look at the major stories shaping the news cycle.
0:04We start in Europe, where leaders met in Brussels.
We start in Europe, where leaders met in Brussels.
0:09The summit focused on energy policy and migration.
The summit focused on energy policy and migration.
0:14Reporting from the ground, our correspondent has more.
Reporting from the ground, our correspondent has more.
0:19Thank you. The mood here was tense but constructive.
Thank you. The mood here was tense but constructive.
0:24