21 minutes | Friday, 28 March 2025
TECH GIRL ENERGY: The Weekly DebriefEpisode 25 - Meta's Ad Free Subscription & 23andme Files for BankruptcyHarriet Taylor and Numi Gildert dive into their favourite tech headlines of the week;Meta's Ad-Free Subscription ModelTopic 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 ServicesFocus 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 LiteracyImportance 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.