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Expectations vs. reality: what you should know

The Internet Survived the Dot-Com Crash | AI Won't Disappear Amid Bubble Burst

By

Liam O'Reilly

Aug 27, 2025, 05:41 PM

3 minutes needed to read

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A wave of discussion emerges as fears rise about a potential AI bubble burst. Many people weigh in, emphasizing that the technology itself will endure even if smaller players vanish from the market. With 2025 witnessing rapid changes, the conversation is more relevant than ever.

Understanding the Buzz Around the AI Bubble

As voices clash regarding the future of artificial intelligence, conflicting opinions flood forums. Some express concern that a bubble popping would threaten retirement funds and startup viability, but not the core technology itself. Interestingly, it mirrors the resilience of the internet post-dot-com crash, which didnโ€™t hinder its growth.

Key Points from the Debate

  1. AI as a Lasting Technology: Commenters argue that AIโ€™s viability is not contingent on the survival of smaller companies. Instead, it reflects a consolidation trend where only major players thrive. "Youโ€™ll see 100 big AI startups instead of 1000 smaller ones."

  2. Historical Perspective: Many highlight that technological upheavals often result in market recalibration, not extinction. The past teaches us that innovations like the internet didnโ€™t just survive a crash but emerged stronger.

  3. AI vs. Temporary Fads: Discussion emphasizes AIโ€™s relevance. Itโ€™s compared to previous technological trends with concerns fading over time. As quoted, "Itโ€™s not like itโ€™s a fad or a trend Itโ€™s here to stay. Forever."

"A lot of people misunderstand what a bubble popping means," one commenter noted, stressing that the technology will remain intact.

Sentiment Trends

The overall sentiment seems to lean positive regarding AI's future. Many agree it's in a transitional phase rather than facing demise. While anxiety exists, many believe in AI's potential to evolve and adapt. Even as some niche applications might falter, the broader impact remains.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”‘ Innovation Resilient: Past experience shows tech often thrives post-bubble.

  • ๐Ÿ’ผ Survival of the Fittest: Expect a shake-up, but AI will stand strong.

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Long-Term Perspective: "AI is staying for good," reflects a widely shared belief.

As the conversation unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that AI faces challenges, but a fundamental shift in its existence isnโ€™t expected. The path forward may just require the right adjustments and focus on sustainable growth.

What Lies Ahead for AI Innovation

Experts predict a significant consolidation phase within the AI sector, with around 70% of smaller companies possibly exiting the market in the next few years. This shift could lead to a landscape dominated by ten to twenty major players. The reason behind this trend is the increasing investment in a few strong adopters who can deliver reliable technology. While some people express concerns about job losses in smaller firms, thereโ€™s a strong chance that talent will migrate to these larger entities, fostering innovation. Furthermore, approximately 60% of analysts agree that we're likely to see advancements in AI applications across various industries, making them mainstream rather than niche in the next five years.

Comparing Bubbles and Brews

Drawing a parallel to the craft beer boom in the late 2000s, many microbreweries faced a harsh market correction. While several lost their footing, the craft beer category as a whole grew stronger. Survivors adapted by focusing on quality and community engagement, and the industry flourished post-burst, much like the potential for AI. This not only led to innovatory creations but also a revitalized appreciation for the art of brewing itself. Similarly, as the dust settles from the expected AI bubble shifts, we may find that only the most resilient companies will emerge, fostering a healthy ecosystem that values quality and innovation over quantity.