This video discusses Drew Gooden's frustrations with modern technology, focusing on how many technological advancements seem designed for profit and manipulation rather than genuine user benefit or enjoyment. He cites examples ranging from frustrating TV features to the complexities of streaming services and the difficulties of watching his local basketball team.
Motion smoothing on TVs: Many TVs have a motion smoothing feature that is universally disliked but remains enabled by default, making content look blurry and artificial. Manufacturers continue this practice despite widespread negative feedback.
The decline of excitement for new technology: Gooden argues that the excitement surrounding new technology has diminished, with many innovations seeming more focused on creating problems to sell solutions or exploiting users for profit.
The rise of physical media: Due to issues with streaming services (price increases, content removal), many are returning to physical media like Blu-rays and vinyl records. Gooden's personal experience with this highlights the unexpected obstacles and costs involved.
The manipulative nature of modern apps: Many apps are designed to maximize user engagement and screen time, often through manipulative techniques like endless scrolling, push notifications, and gamified rewards that offer minimal value.
The obsolescence of products: The video points out that many modern devices are designed for disposability, becoming obsolete or malfunctioning after a short time, forcing consumers to purchase replacements. This is driven by the focus on shareholder value and short-term profit.
