And also provide an API for online services to use so we are not beholden to Alphabet and Apple.

And while they’re at it, provide an electronic money account that allows for free and instant transfers.

But then how would we waste so many societal resources letting investors profit from basic infrastructure?

> But then how would we waste so many societal resources letting investors profit from basic infrastructure?

That, and Millenarian Christians would object to its being a required "mark of the beast." That bit from Revelations has held us back for quite a while.

I'm sure some young guns from a techbro company would love to dive into the data lake and make a proposal. They might need to take a few reels of tape away for offsite analysis, but don't worry..