The Enshittification of Online Services: A Call for Disruption
Have you noticed that some of your favorite online services seem to be getting worse? Maybe your Google search results are flooded with ads, or perhaps a dating app you once enjoyed now has a paywall blocking your path to potential matches. You’re not alone in feeling frustrated. Cory Doctorow, an author and journalist, has coined the term "enshittification" to capture this unsettling trend. The silver lining? It highlights a golden opportunity for startups ready to shake things up.
The Rise of "Customer Mode"
In the latest episode of TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, host Rebecca Bellan talks with Ed Zitron, CEO of EZPR and author of the forthcoming book Why Everything Stopped Working. Their conversation unpacks why these changes are happening and what they mean for the future of startups.
Zitron emphasizes a shift from the "founder mode"—where creators obsess over growth at any cost—to a more sustainable "customer mode." This approach prioritizes the needs and experiences of users, which could pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling relationship between companies and their customers.
Disrupting the Status Quo
So, what kinds of opportunities lie ahead for innovators in this landscape? Zitron sees numerous possibilities. He believes that the era of prioritizing rapid growth without considering customer experience is on borrowed time. Instead, startups willing to focus on genuine value and service could disrupt industries mired in enshittification.
The Future of Generative AI
Esoteric terms aside, one particularly intriguing topic that comes up is the long-term perspective for generative AI companies like OpenAI. Although this discussion took place before recent breaking news regarding DeepSeek, it sets the stage for ongoing dialogue about the sustainability of AI advancements in a rapidly evolving market.
Engage with Equity
If you’re keen to dig deeper, listen to the full podcast episode to uncover more insights from Bellan and Zitron. It’s an engaging discussion that provides a fresh lens on how we might navigate the messy world of online services today and in the future.
Equity is TechCrunch’s flagship podcast, hosted by Theresa Loconsolo, and new episodes are released every Wednesday and Friday. You can find Equity on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. Don’t forget to follow the team on social media at @EquityPod for the latest updates.
Closing Thoughts
The trend of enshittification signals not just a problem but also an open door for those looking to innovate. As customers, we’re ready for a new wave of services that genuinely enhance our online experiences.
The AI Buzz Hub team is excited to see where these breakthroughs take us. Want to stay in the loop on all things AI? Subscribe to our newsletter or share this article with your fellow enthusiasts.
