The Future of Apps: AI Takes the Lead

In a recent podcast episode by venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz (https://a16z.com) , Andrew Bosworth, the chief technology officer at Meta (https://www.meta.com) , shared his vision of how artificial intelligence (AI) could reshape how we interact with technology. He suggests that rather than relying on a multitude of apps to accomplish tasks, users may soon prefer to communicate their needs directly to AI systems. This shift could significantly alter the landscape of digital technology.

Currently, individuals navigate through a myriad of applications, like Spotify (https://www.spotify.com) for music or Netflix (https://www.netflix.com) for streaming. However, Bosworth argues that this approach is outdated. He envisions a future where users simply articulate their desires—whether it’s playing a song or finding a movie—and a capable AI takes care of the rest. "I don't want to be responsible for orchestrating what app I'm opening to do a thing," he noted.

This potential transition could disrupt the traditional app model significantly. For many brands, the challenge might be substantial; Bosworth pointed out that it could obscure brand identities. Users may lose their connections to specific companies, which could, in turn, complicate how these brands monetize their services through subscriptions, ads, or freemium models.

The implications for software services are profound. According to a recent study by consulting firm AlixPartners (https://www.alixpartners.com) , over 100 midmarket software companies are feeling the pressure from both agile AI-native competitors and major tech companies like Microsoft (https://www.microsoft.com) and Salesforce (https://www.salesforce.com) . These giants are investing heavily in AI, creating a competitive environment that threatens the longevity of many midsize enterprises.

AlixPartners refers to this phenomenon as a "big squeeze," where these companies must adapt quickly or risk obsolescence. Bosworth believes that this transition to a more AI-centric interface is ultimately beneficial. "What matters now is performance on the job and price per performance," he emphasized, indicating that while some companies may struggle, the overall outcome could lead to more efficient and cost-effective solutions for users.

As we look ahead, the question remains: how will brands adapt to this changing landscape? Will they find ways to maintain their identities in an AI-driven world, or will they need to rethink their entire approach to customer engagement? The answers will shape the future of digital interactions.

Cited: https://www.businessinsider.com/ai-app-model-irrelevant-consumer-meta-tech-chief-andrew-bosworth-2025-4