No Skill. No Taste.
Hacker News
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In today's tech landscape, while advancements like AI tools have democratized app creation, many projects lack both technical skill and aesthetic refinement, leading to a proliferation of low-quality applications. The author highlights that "taste" refers to an acute understanding of market needs and user preferences, essential for creating valuable products beyond mere coding proficiency.
The article critiques examples where popularity is driven by buzz rather than merit, such as OpenClaw, which gained traction despite technical shortcomings. This underscores the importance of combining skill with a discerning sense of what users truly need, rather than relying on trends or hype.
Ultimately, while AI tools lower some barriers to entry, they don't diminish the necessity for creativity and insight into user needs. For tech enthusiasts and developers, this reinforces that success hinges on delivering meaningful solutions, emphasizing the enduring importance of solid design and problem-solving skills over mere technical proficiency.
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/20/2026