Elon Musk’s 1998 ‘Crazy’ Prediction About Media’s Collapse Stuns the World as Reality Unfolds

December 10, 2024: Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has shared a throwback video from 1998 in which he predicted how the internet would transform traditional media. His vision, deemed “crazy” at the time, has now become a reality as the internet dominates the way we consume and interact with media.

In the resurfaced clip, Musk discusses the internet’s potential during an interview. “I think the internet is the superset of all media,” he explained. “It is the fuel and end-all of media. One will see print, broadcast, and arguably radio—all forms of traditional media—fall into the internet.”

Musk emphasized the internet’s capability to act as a two-way interactive medium, offering consumers unparalleled control: “It allows people to choose what they want to see, when they want to see it—whether it’s radio, print, or television.” He concluded his statement with a bold claim: “It’s going to revolutionize all traditional media.”

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Reflecting on his early prediction, Musk noted how many dismissed his vision as “crazy,” despite what he now considers an “obvious” outcome.

Today, Musk continues to be at the forefront of internet innovation through projects like SpaceX’s Starlink. Designed to provide high-speed, low-latency internet globally, Starlink leverages a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit to serve remote and underserved areas. The service, known for its user-friendly setup, has plans to enter the Indian market, posing competition to giants like Jio and Airtel.

Beyond internet connectivity, Musk has also voiced predictions about artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at the VivaTech event in Paris, he foresees a future where AI eliminates the need for traditional jobs. “Probably none of us will have a job,” Musk remarked, envisioning work as a choice rather than a necessity. He proposed a world where robots and AI handle all goods and services, suggesting the need for a “universal high income” to sustain this lifestyle—distinct from the concept of universal basic income (UBI).

From revolutionising media consumption to pioneering satellite internet and predicting an AI-driven future, Musk’s visionary statements continue to provoke thought and reshape industries.