What were the key factors that made 2008 the perfect time to launch Uber?

The iPhone and the App Store revolutionized software distribution for companies like Uber in several ways. Firstly, they provided a platform that made software distribution to millions of users nearly effortless. This was a game-changer for companies like Uber, which relied on widespread user adoption for success. Secondly, the iPhone and the App Store created a new paradigm where software could be downloaded and installed directly on a device, bypassing traditional distribution channels. This allowed companies like Uber to reach their customers directly, without the need for intermediaries. Finally, the App Store provided a centralized marketplace for discovering and downloading apps, which helped companies like Uber gain visibility and attract new users.

The availability of venture capital in Silicon Valley greatly impacted the power dynamics between Venture Capitalists and founders. The success of companies like Facebook, Google, Instagram, and Snapchat attracted a flood of venture capital into Silicon Valley. This abundance of funding options shifted the balance of power from Venture Capitalists to founders. Founders now had more options to choose from when seeking funding, which gave them more leverage in negotiations. They could negotiate for better terms, retain more control over their companies, and were less dependent on any single investor.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) played a significant role in reducing the infrastructural costs for startups like Uber. AWS provides on-demand cloud computing platforms and APIs to individuals, companies, and governments, on a metered pay-as-you-go basis. This means that startups can access high-powered computing resources without the need for significant upfront investment in physical infrastructure, such as servers. This dramatically lowers the barrier to entry for startups and allows them to scale quickly and efficiently as their user base grows.