xbiz world
xbiz premiere
opinion

Time Marches On...

I’ve written a lot lately on the evolution of the online adult entertainment industry; the technologies and market forces impacting it; and the reassessment of business plans in the wake of these factors – a reassessment that for me is ongoing – and sadly, full of second-guessing.

With the New Year upon us, I’m still surveying our digital landscape and want to add two more items for your consideration; both of which are featured on XBIZ today:

The first is an article entitled “The Rising Tide of Technology” which deals with the evolution of the surfer and the means by which he accesses our wares. While I may not agree with all of the author’s conclusions, it’s clear that today’s surfer expects more and demands more from his online entertainment options. I recommend you check out this piece as it provides good food for thought.

The other item of interest is a news piece that I wrote, which discusses how AOL has ended its support for the Netscape Navigator browser.

I was a working webmaster prior to the launch of Netscape Navigator and have seen its growth, trials and tribulations over the years. I’ve used its innovative “blink” tag as a cool new ‘marketing tool’ (many years ago); and have struggled to overcome this browser’s many quirks in my efforts to have seamless cross-browser designs.

I’ve ridiculed the cult that followed it as a symbol of defiance against Bill Gates; and I’ve been awed at the speed at which it rendered one of my early animated gif logos, spinning wildly fast as if it were a hamster on crack – rather than showing the measured beat that every other browser displayed.

I’ve loved the way it looked and hated the burden it imposed on my development cycle.

I cheered when Internet Explorer finally kicked its ass in “the browser wars” – but I’m a little bit sad at its departure from the stage.

What’s really on my mind however is the strong emotions that its development team and corporate evangelists must have faced over the decision to drop this icon. It’s a sign of the merciless evolution of our industry and the market realities that we all face; where no matter how cool or important something may have once been, there really will come a time when it’s “best” to move on – regardless of the regret that move may cause.

Rest in Peace, Navigator – you caused me a lot of problems, but you will be missed…

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

A Practical Guide to Refreshing Your Creator Brand

The word “rebrand” can spark instant dread. Why mess with my favorite burrito? What’s with the new logo? Or in the world of online sex work: Wait, she changed her name? Dyed her hair? OMG did she really swap out the good-girl-next-door vibe for full leather baddie?

Jenna Gargles ·
profile

Kylie Baker Details Rise From Store Support to Regional Manager

When Kylie Baker first stepped into adult retail, it wasn’t part of a long-term career plan. It was a favor, a simple act of support for a friend who needed help covering shifts. Nearly 12 years later, that moment has evolved into a leadership career defined by adaptability, resilience and a people-first approach.

Ariana Rodriguez ·
opinion

Building a Queer Audience Across Multiple Platforms

Building a queer audience online can be like trying to flirt at a party where half the people pretend you don’t exist, and the other half want you to leave. On some platforms, the word “gay” alone can tank visibility. On others, showing too much skin, using the wrong hashtag or linking too directly to adult content can quietly bury your posts before anyone sees them.

Guy Spencer ·
profile

Ohdoki Sets Sights on International Growth With 'The Handy'

Some brands rush to cover every facet of the pleasure products market. Others aim to do one thing — and do it exceptionally well.

Colleen Godin ·
opinion

5 Key Features Your Adult Ecommerce Website Might Be Missing

I spend a lot of time on adult ecommerce websites. Not just looking at the front end, but digging into what’s actually driving traffic, conversions and long-term growth. Here’s the reality: most adult brands are leaving money on the table.

Hail Groo ·
profile

SantanaXXL on Breaking Barriers and Making Room for Plus-Size Creators

SantanaXXL doesn’t do subtle. There’s his loud, contagious laugh. The oversized, impossibly cool Louis Vuitton shades perched effortlessly on his face during his chat with XBIZ. The ensemble he casually describes as a “lounge outfit.”

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

How to Respond to Public Criticism on Social Media With Clarity, Composure

Rin Musick ·
profile

Ricci Levy on Standing Up for the Right to Be Heard

When Ricci Levy speaks about human rights, she does not use detached, academic language. She speaks with urgency, emotion and the kind of passion that immediately makes it clear just how deeply personal this work is for her.

Women In Adult ·
opinion

Lessons From Decades of Building the Adult Internet

After my first year of college, I needed a job. So I did what people did back then: I opened the newspaper and started scanning the classifieds. One listing stood out: “Image Librarian.” I had no idea what that meant, but I applied, and got the job.

Tanguy ·
opinion

Tips for Building a Pleasure Brand That Lasts

Each year, promising new indie brands enter the pleasure industry with fresh, creative designs meant to enhance intimacy, wellness and self-discovery. Some are embraced by retailers and shoppers, while others fade quietly.

Ian Kulp ·
Show More