VCs Hunter Walk(Homebrew) Aileen Lee(CowboyVC) Jed Katz(Javelin); Cynogen Kirt McMaster & MOD | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Cyanogen, the largest aftermarket distribution of Android, introduces Mod, a platform that allows for deeper integration of services into Android. VC investors discuss the current state of investing and the challenges faced by startups.

Key Insights

• 😀 Cyanogen's Mod platform offers a new modality of services integration that goes beyond traditional apps.
• 🌱 The investing landscape is cautious, with seed investors waiting for market stabilization and follow-on rounds becoming more challenging.
• 🤗 The potential for a surface phone or other devices running Cyanogen and Android opens up new possibilities for hardware integration.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What is Cyanogen and its significance?

Cyanogen is the largest aftermarket distribution of Android and has launched Mod, a platform that allows for deeper integration of services into Android.

Q: What are the challenges faced by startups in the current investing landscape?

Startups face challenges in securing follow-on rounds of investment and seed investors are cautious due to uncertain market conditions.

Q: What is the Mod platform?

Mod is a platform that enables seamless integration of services, such as Cortana and Skype, into the Android operating system.

Q: Could there be a surface phone running Cyanogen and Android?

While it is possible, no such development has been confirmed. Microsoft's collaboration with Cyanogen suggests a potential partnership.

Q: What is the support for Apple's stance on privacy in the Apple-FBI case?

VC investors express support for Apple's decision to prioritize user privacy and not create a backdoor access for the FBI.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Cyanogen is the largest aftermarket distribution of Android, launching Mod, a platform for deeper integration of services into Android.

• VC investors discuss the challenges faced by startups in the current investing landscape, including follow-on rounds and seed investment caution.

• Cyanogen's Mod platform enables seamless integration of services, such as Cortana and Skype, into the Android operating system.

• The potential for a surface phone or similar device running Cyanogen and Android is discussed.

• VC investors express support for Apple's stance on privacy in the Apple-FBI case.