Core Argument - The tech industry is experiencing "shitification," a pattern of platform decay where platforms initially benefit users, then exploit them and business customers after locking them in, ultimately degrading the user experience [2][3] - Tech platforms exploit their dominant market positions (e g, Google's 90% search market share) to prioritize profit over user satisfaction, due to lack of competition [5][6] - This phenomenon extends beyond digital platforms to other areas like TV shows, video games, and even political systems [7] Contributing Factors - Digital platforms' ability to update in real-time and personalize offers for each user facilitates the exploitation of value [8] - Even paid platforms are not immune, as companies like Apple engage in their own surveillance for advertising purposes despite charging users for their devices [9][10] - Corporate concentration and lack of competition enable this behavior, as companies face little incentive to prioritize user needs [14] Potential Solutions - Hope lies in collective action and political engagement rather than relying on individual consumer choices, as billionaires' wallets are thicker [16][17] - Increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement of antitrust laws globally, including in the US, Canada, the EU, and other countries, are creating a tailwind against corporate concentration [12][13][14] - Grassroots activism and involvement in political and digital rights groups are crucial for advocating for user rights and holding tech companies accountable [18][19]