In January, I wrote about how 2016 had been declared the year of bots by many. At year’s end, the bots narrative has been very loud but mostly disappointing. Most of the major technology companies announced big initiatives. But the platforms, enabling technologies and new products have largely failed to materialize.

The demand from startups for a platform that opens up new channels for distribution, making new consumer experiences easier to deliver, is as strong today as it was a year ago. Consumer interest in moving beyond apps seems equally as keen. But in general, this was a year of over-promises and under-delivery on actual experiences.