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Let's follow this train of thought.

What are the selective pressures on the "natural evolution of communications technology?"

Consumers willing to engage in any specific tech, enough to trigger network effects.

So you think consumer engagement ultimately drives what types of tech that companies invest in building? I can see that argument.

Why do companies want consumer engagement to start with?

Engagement is a proxy for user value. Things that User value can be monetized.

So it's fair to say that effectiveness at monetization is an extremely strong evolutionary pressure on how technology evolves?

No, something can monetize well but only for a small audience. This is what building for a niche does. What works for a niche may not match the macro trends that are at play.

the thing about evolutionary pressure is, it works on all niches, all at the same time

But the pressure doesn't follow monetization efficiency.

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