Tom Hulme on Microsoft’s AI Distribution Advantage

A 2024 short clip considers data, existing workflows and partnerships in the AI market.

THTom HulmeGuest · Managing partner and head of Europe
Channel
20VC with Harry Stebbings
Published
May 11, 2024
Video
0:30
Read
1 min
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English
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SUMMARY

In 30 seconds

Tom Hulme argues that existing data and distribution can matter as AI technology spreads, citing Word, GitHub and Microsoft’s work with Epic. His assessment reflects the 2024 conversation.

  1. 1Data and distributionHulme argues established distribution can create an advantage.
  2. 2Existing workflowsHe cites Word and GitHub as products already used for work.
  3. 3Healthcare collaborationMicrosoft and Epic collaborate; Epic is a separate company.

Takeaways

  1. Hulme sees data and distribution as possible sources of value.
  2. Word and GitHub are embedded in existing workflows.
  3. Microsoft collaborates with Epic, an independent healthcare software company.
  4. The competitive outcome remains uncertain.
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01

Where value may shift

Tom Hulme argues that if AI technology becomes commoditized, value may shift toward companies with data and distribution. This is his 2024 assessment of the market.

Tom Hulme argues that if AI technology becomes commoditized, value may shift toward companies with data and distribution. This is his 2024 assessment of the market.

He points to legal work as a potential use for language models and Microsoft Word as software already embedded in many workflows.

02

Coding and healthcare

For coding, he cites GitHub’s reach among developers. For healthcare, he mentions Epic; Microsoft and Epic are separate companies that collaborate on integrating AI with electronic health records.

For coding, he cites GitHub’s reach among developers. For healthcare, he mentions Epic; Microsoft and Epic are separate companies that collaborate on integrating AI with electronic health records.

Hulme credits Microsoft’s distribution position, and Harry Stebbings agrees. Their exchange is an opinion about competitive positioning, not proof of a lasting winner.

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