EP25: Meta's Ad Free Subscription & 23andme Files for Bankruptcy
Tech Girl Energy: The Weekly Debrief
Friday, 28 March 2025 - 21 minutes
TECH GIRL ENERGY: The Weekly Debrief
Episode 25 - Meta's Ad Free Subscription & 23andme Files for Bankruptcy
Harriet Taylor and Numi Gildert dive into their favourite tech headlines of the week;
Meta's Ad-Free Subscription Model
- Topic Overview: Meta considers introducing a paid subscription model in the UK for ad-free experiences on Facebook and Instagram, following its EU implementation.
- Discussion Points:
- Prospective cost of £5 per month.
- Comparison to streaming service models.
- Mixed reactions from hosts; concerns about social media usage habits and potential user base implications.
Ethical Concerns with DNA Testing Services
- Focus Story: Data breach at American genetic testing firm, 23andMe, leading to bankruptcy fears.
- Key Issues Discussed:
- Privacy risks associated with sensitive genetic data being accessed by third parties or used commercially without consent.
- Potential ramifications for users regarding health insurance premiums in countries like the US where private healthcare is predominant.
Wider Implications of Digital Literacy
- Importance of building critical thinking around digital services and technologies among users to understand risks involved in sharing personal data online.
LINKS:
Ad-free Insta: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0kglle0p3vo
23andme Bankruptcy: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/mar/25/opt-out-23andme-account-dna-data-privacy
Don't forget to follow Harriet and Numi at @techgirlenergy on all social platforms.
You can find this, and all our other episodes at www.IM-Listening.co.uk or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
