20 years ago, one of the biggest questions facing the internet was identity.

20 years ago, one of the biggest questions facing the internet was identity.

Some platforms chose anonymity.

Reddit and Craigslist allow people to participate without revealing who they are. The products, communities, and moderation systems evolved around that decision. There is more risk, but also more vibrant selection (of ideas, interactions, etc)

Others chose identity.

Facebook and Airbnb require you to be a real person. Their products, trust systems, and business models evolved around that choice. Sure, fakes exist, but it's in direct resistance to their stated intent.

One of the next dividing line: humanity.

Some platforms will allow AI agents to participate alongside humans with little or no distinction (unfortunately, when undecided, this will become the default decision).

Other platforms will require a clear line between humans and AI... or exclude one group all together.

Massive businesses will be built on all sides. But it's those who build where most aren't looking that are most likely to find the biggest jackpots.