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Where VCs think AI startups can win, even with OpenAI in the game
VC Vanessa Larco predicts 2026 will mark the rise of consumer AI, with a potential shift in online consumer engagement due to AI-driven services. The future of legacy apps like WebMD is questioned, as startups explore their own niches amid competition from giants like OpenAI and Meta AI.
Key points
- Vanessa Larco anticipates a significant consumer AI shift in 2026.
- AI is expected to create 'concierge-like' online services.
- The viability of legacy consumer apps (WebMD, TripAdvisor) is in question.
- Startups are encouraged to find unique AI-powered niches despite competition from established companies.
Why it matters
- The growth of consumer AI aligns with 2025 IT trends focused on personalization and user-centric technology.
- Historically, past tech trends showed how startups can thrive against larger competitors through innovation.
- AI's integration into everyday services echoes trends seen in previous tech revolutions, such as mobile apps and cloud computing.
As AI continues to evolve, 2026 might represent a turning point for consumer engagement, offering both challenges and opportunities for startups in a landscape dominated by major players.