I actually don’t mind the subscription model for content creators. I just wish Google (or any platform owner) would get a smaller cut due to a more competitive environment.

The thing is if, you couldn’t block ads on YT, I would probably get premium, there is no way I am watching their ads.

Note, I do subscribe to multiple “indie” content creators that I enjoy, but I am not watching ads on YT (or anywhere else).

The console business model of subsidized hardware and platform specific-exclusives is coming to an end.

Semiconductors costs have gone up and they will only continue to get even more expensive. At the same time, graphics are reaching a “good enough” phase, where marginal increases in fidelity require exponentially more processing power.

It also doesn’t make financial sense to not eventually release games on PC (if not have a same day multi-platform release).

I think by this point, the only option is breakup and mandatory federation with independent frontends, service providers all competing against each other. They have a monopoly.

Google would argue they don’t really have a monopoly since they compete against streaming, but that’s a malicious, pre-information age interpretation of monopoly power.

Now, now, young one. You simply lack the taste and sophistication to appreciate the depth inherent to badger badger badger.

The sharp, minimalist vector graphics of badger badger badger gave it character and pedigree. Not like the tiktok junk of today.

And you had know how to install and patch browser plugins and computers required knowledge. You had to know about the URL and share it on MSN messenger. Not like the brain dead smartphone apps used by modern teens.