I think this phenomenon is better described as indirect payment for platform services. You could argue similar structures exist outside of tech in Walmart’s su

I think this phenomenon is better described as indirect payment for platform services. You could argue similar structures exist outside of tech in Walmart’s supplier relationships or Standard Oil’s railroad arrangements. Also, the methods used by these companies to “claim territory” often does seem to create innovation. The gmail web app, WhatsApp etc create a lot of customer value despite being used for territory expansion rather the collection of direct revenue.