Software is eating the world, storied venture capitalist Marc Andreessen recently wrote — and from his perspective, it certainly looks like it. But that’s only part of the picture.

It’s true that the fastest-growing companies in a variety of markets are driven by their deep understanding of software. Andreessen cites Amazon, Netflix, Skype, Pandora and Zynga as examples.

… And yet, if you’re concerned about the long-term shape of technology, software is only one dimension of many. Arguably, hardware makers and service providers exert far more control over the future direction of technology. When I look at the companies that will make a difference to my future (and my children’s), I’m more concerned about the latter.

Read the full story: Dylan’s Desk: Software is not eating the world | VentureBeat.

This column comes out every week via e-mail first. Subscribe to the newsletter.