Open Networks vs. Platforms
JPEG is designed not just as an application, but as an open network where users retain economic agency over their creative output. This fundamental distinction separates JPEG from traditional social platforms.The Attract-Extract Cycle
Corporate platforms follow an attract-extract cycle. Early openness gives way to value extraction as network effects consolidate. Historical examples include:- Facebook’s relationships with Vine and Zynga, where complements were eventually cannibalized
- Platforms closing APIs and reducing interoperability as they grow
- Value extraction from creators and users once network effects are established
Why Blockchain Networks Differ
Blockchain networks reduce unilateral platform risk:- Ownership persists: Identity and assets exist beyond any single application
- Permissionless complements: Developers can build without platform approval
- Long-term trust: Users don’t risk losing access to their assets or data
- No single point of failure: Decentralized infrastructure prevents platform shutdowns
Digital Ownership
Tokens and on-chain assets invert traditional platform dynamics by assigning ownership to users rather than intermediaries. In JPEG:- PX (Pixels) function as owned digital assets
- Freestyle JPEGs are tradable, programmable assets
- Participation becomes capital formation rather than data extraction
Skeuomorphic Onboarding
JPEG borrows familiar social mechanics to reduce adoption friction. Skeuomorphic design enables users to understand new systems through familiar metaphors during early adoption phases.Familiar Patterns
- Photo sharing (like Instagram, BeReal)
- Social feeds and timelines
- Likes and engagement metrics (transformed into collects)
- Daily challenges and themes
Underlying Innovation
While the UI feels familiar, the underlying mechanics are revolutionary:- Market-based coordination replaces algorithmic feeds
- Capital-backed attention replaces engagement metrics
- Owned assets replace disposable posts
- Open network replaces closed platform
Skeuomorphic design helps users transition from Web2 to Web3 without cognitive
overload. The familiar interface masks the complexity of blockchain and
prediction markets.
Platform vs. Network
Traditional Platforms
Platforms compete with complements:- Closed ecosystems
- Value extraction from users
- Limited interoperability
- Centralized control
JPEG Network
Networks empower complements:- Open, composable infrastructure
- Value accrual to users
- Permissionless innovation
- Decentralized ownership
Key Distinction
Platforms compete with complements, networks empower them.This means JPEG is designed to enable third-party developers, entrepreneurs, and creators to build on top of the network without fear of being cannibalized or shut down.
Benefits of Network Architecture
For Users
- Ownership: Assets persist beyond the application
- Portability: JPEGs can be used in other applications
- Value Accrual: Users benefit from network growth
- No Lock-in: Freedom to move assets and data
For Developers
- Permissionless Building: No approval needed to integrate
- Composability: Build on existing JPEG assets
- Network Effects: Benefit from JPEG’s user base
- Innovation Freedom: Create new markets and experiences
For Creators
- Asset Ownership: JPEGs are owned, not licensed
- Multiple Markets: Sell across different applications
- Long-term Value: Assets can appreciate over time
- Direct Monetization: No platform taking majority cuts
Future Vision
JPEG is designed to evolve from a consumer app into an open network where JPEG becomes the standard primitive for photo assets. Images become programmable objects rather than disposable posts, enabling:- Cross-application trading
- Developer innovation
- New market creation
- Long-term value accrual