Government's Evolving Role

Minitel also influenced how French governments would approach digital innovation. The system's success reinforced belief in the state's ability to drive technological adoption. But its eventual obsolescence taught the importance of flexibility and openness.

This dual lesson—that government can catalyze innovation but shouldn't control it—shapes French Tech policy today. Programs like the French Tech Mission and Station F represent a new model: government as enabler rather than operator, creating conditions for innovation rather than dictating its direction.