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Ownership Quote by Kevin Kelly

“The switch from “ownership that you purchase” to “access that you subscribe to” overturns many conventions. Ownership is casual, fickle. If something better comes along, grab it. A subscription, on the other hand, gushes a never-ending stream of updates, issues, and versions that force a constant…” quote by Kevin Kelly
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““The switch from “ownership that you purchase” to “access that you subscribe to” overturns many conventions. Ownership is casual, fickle. If something better comes along, grab it. A subscription, on the other hand, gushes a never-ending stream of updates, issues, and versions that force a constant interaction between the producer and the consumer.””

Kevin Kelly

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Switch from Ownership to Access” in The Inevitable, 2016

Moving from owning products to subscribing changes expectations; ownership is static, while subscriptions demand ongoing interaction and continual updates.

In simple terms: Shift to subscriptions changes how we relate to products.

Key Takeaway

Embrace continuous engagement with services.

Themes

technology business models consumer behavior

Mood

analytical critical

Type

commentary observational

When to use this quote

  • software licensing
  • media streaming
  • vehicle sharing
  • home appliances

Key Concepts

economics innovation platforms

Questions to Reflect On

  • Will you prefer owning or subscribing?
  • How does constant updating affect satisfaction?
A Different Perspective

Subscriptions can lock users into perpetual costs and dependence.

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