"I think complexity is mostly sort of crummy stuff that is there because it's too expensive to change the interface"

In this quote, Jaron Lanier is revealing his opinion on complexity in innovation. He argues that most of the complexity present in modern innovation is unneeded and exists entirely since it would be too expensive to alter the user interface. To put it simply, the technology is complicated since it is cheaper to add layers of complexity rather than simplifying the interface. This might be due to a variety of reasons such as legacy systems, absence of development, or a concentrate on short-term profits. Lanier's statement highlights the need for technological simplicity and user-friendliness, which can result in much better user experiences and more successful innovation.