The hottest Digital Platforms Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

An Ugly New Marketing Strategy Is Driving Me Nuts (and You Too)

The Honest Broker • 30453 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
💼 Business Marketing Advertising Consumer behavior Digital Platforms Economics
  1. A new marketing trend encourages companies to annoy customers instead of trying to sell to them. This strategy makes people want to pay for premium services just to escape the annoying ads.
  2. Digital platforms now focus on grabbing user attention through irritating tactics. This creates an 'Annoyance Economy' where companies prioritize engagement over good customer experience.
  3. Customers are getting fed up with these annoying practices, and some are even choosing to walk away from brands altogether. Companies that ignore this feedback risk losing their customers in the long run.

The World's Largest Search Doesn't Want You to Search

The Honest Broker • 45746 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Search Engines AI Digital Platforms Privacy Data Management
  1. Search engines, especially Google, are moving away from their main job of helping people find information. Instead, they want to keep users on their platforms with AI results that don’t always give good answers.
  2. Google prioritizes its advertising and profitability over providing reliable search results. People often end up with low-quality information or ads instead of what they are really looking for.
  3. Many users are losing trust in Google and other big tech companies because they feel the platforms are not serving their needs. If this trend continues, it could lead to serious consequences for these companies.

Old Media Finally Wakes Up from a Coma

The Honest Broker • 31251 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📰 News Media Trends Journalism Digital Platforms Public Discourse Audience engagement
  1. Old media is realizing that it needs to change in order to survive. They can't continue doing things the same way as before.
  2. Influencers and new media figures like Joe Rogan and Elon Musk are now more powerful than traditional journalists. Their ability to reach large audiences is forcing old media to adapt.
  3. Legacy media organizations, like CNN and the New York Times, are starting to imitate the styles and formats of new media to attract viewers. They are trying to be more conversational and engaging.

Twitter or Bluesky? How about neither.

Silver Bulletin • 418 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Social media Business Models Digital Platforms Online Influence User Behavior
  1. Twitter has lost much of its influence compared to its heyday, now having less engagement and relevance in social media discussions. Many users are finding better alternatives for their online engagement.
  2. Despite challenges, Twitter still holds some value for quick updates, memes, and keeping up with special interests. However, its growth seems stagnant, and it's not heading towards a broader 'everything app' vision.
  3. The business model of platforms like Twitter faces inherent issues, as they struggle to balance being a platform and a publisher. This affects their profitability and long-term sustainability.

The Decentralised Workforce

Workforce Futurist by Andy Spence • 586 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💼 Business Gig Economy Freelancing Digital Platforms Entrepreneurship Workforce Trends
  1. Many people are choosing gig work instead of traditional jobs for more freedom and better moral alignment with their work. This shift is especially notable among younger workers who value flexibility.
  2. The gig economy is growing rapidly, with more specialized platforms allowing skilled workers to connect with clients and earn substantial incomes. It's not just about food delivery anymore; many people are making good money in diverse fields.
  3. Despite the opportunities, there are challenges, such as platform fees and lack of benefits for workers. There's a need for policies that support gig workers to ensure they have fair earnings and access to health insurance.
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The War Against Indie Creators Is Now Getting Dirty

The Honest Broker • 14628 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Impact Entertainment industry Digital Platforms
  1. Apple is taking a big chunk of money from indie creators by charging them a 30% fee on subscriptions through their app. This is making it really tough for artists and freelancers to keep making a living.
  2. Google changed its search rules, harming many indie publishers and websites while favoring larger companies. This has made it hard for these smaller sites to get noticed, leading to fewer visitors and loss of income.
  3. Podcasting is becoming super popular and important for media and politics. As traditional news outlets lose influence, more people are turning to alternative media like podcasts for information.

The truth about Elon Musk and anti-Semitism

Popular Information • 13247 implied HN points • 06 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Political speech Corporate Influence Digital Platforms Anti-Semitism
  1. Elon Musk threatened to sue the Anti-Defamation League due to criticism of his handling of Twitter.
  2. Musk reneged on promises to combat hate speech on Twitter and reinstated accounts with anti-Semitic content.
  3. Musk has a history of associating with and amplifying anti-Semitic speech, causing controversy and backlash.

Arguing with Software

David Friedman’s Substack • 251 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software Automation E-commerce Customer Service Digital Platforms
  1. Dealing with automated systems can be frustrating. Sometimes, your complaints are answered by software that just sends form letters instead of real help.
  2. Getting issues resolved often requires persistence. If you keep pushing for a solution, a real person may eventually step in to help.
  3. It's important to remember that companies aren't people. They may prioritize efficiency over empathy, which can impact how they handle problems.

Where Did TikTok Come From?

The Honest Broker • 7879 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Social media Entrepreneurship Algorithm Digital Platforms Innovation
  1. TikTok's success can be attributed to a strategic focus on teens as the main users of the platform, creating a significant legal and social impact.
  2. Zhang Yiming, founder of TikTok, capitalized on the algorithm's power over user control to pave the way for the platform's global success.
  3. TikTok's uniqueness lies in its outsider status in China, where a similar app exists, showcasing its worldwide appeal and massive user base.

My Thoughts on Getting Paid on Substack

Lore Ferguson Wilbert • 2594 implied HN points • 31 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Social media Digital Platforms Personal Finance Content creation
  1. Subscription models for writers can provide a way for readers to support them financially.
  2. Freelance writing often pays very little in relation to the amount of work that goes into it.
  3. Being supported by reader subscriptions can allow writers to focus more on their writing and less on social media and algorithms.

The paywall dilemma

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💼 Business Media Trends Creator Economy Subscription Models Digital Platforms Content Strategy
  1. Hiding articles behind a paywall can lower subscription rates. Many readers feel they've gotten enough info from just the headline and first few lines, so they don’t feel the need to pay.
  2. The creator economy is growing, with many people earning six-figure incomes from smaller audiences. This means that you don’t need a huge following to be successful anymore.
  3. Media companies, like BuzzFeed, are shifting to build their own social networks. This helps them keep audiences engaged on their own platforms and improves their chances of future success.

From Zero to 100 Paid Subscribers on Substack

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1139 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
💼 Business Online Writing Content Monetization Digital Platforms Audience engagement
  1. Your unique voice and perspective are valuable. People will pay for your insights and stories, so embrace your individuality.
  2. Substack allows you to build a direct income from your subscribers. Unlike many other platforms, you can earn consistent money from your loyal audience.
  3. There is a niche for everyone. No matter how unconventional your ideas are, there are people who will relate to and appreciate your work.

All media is niche media now

Men Yell at Me • 376 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Storytelling Digital Platforms
  1. Media today is all about specific audiences, not broad ones. This means every story has its own niche and people find information where they connect best.
  2. Big money often influences media, which can lead to biased reporting. Media outlets are not purely good or bad; they all have their issues, often based on their funding sources.
  3. The rise of independent creators is changing how we tell stories. It's important to be personal and relatable, making content more engaging and fun for everyone.

Is the latest game subscription 'moral panic' justified?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 373 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Subscriptions Market Trends Game Development Digital Platforms
  1. There is debate about whether the 'moral panic' around the latest game subscription services is justified.
  2. Subscription services like Game Pass are seen as gatekeeping and may impact the creation of creative first-party games.
  3. The market for games is evolving, with a mix of direct-to-market games, subscription services, and the importance of gamers owning their catalogs.

The Doc Web

escape the algorithm • 718 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Self-Publishing Digital Platforms Community Building Expression
  1. A doc created can easily transition from a private space to a public domain with a simple click of a share button.
  2. Google Docs is more than just a word processor; it forms a unique, vast network known as the 'Doc Web' with subtle yet powerful publishing capabilities.
  3. The widespread accessibility and simplicity of Google Docs as a publishing tool can challenge traditional power dynamics and lead to unconventional forms of expression and shared knowledge.

Feed experiences

Internal exile • 67 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎶 Music Streaming Content creation Advertising Cultural critique Digital Platforms
  1. Many artists, like Catbreath, use clever tricks to get listens on streaming platforms. This shows how the music industry can sometimes reward unconventional strategies over traditional talent.
  2. Streaming services like Spotify may prioritize ads over genuine music experiences. This can lead listeners to rely on algorithms to pick their music, which might reduce their enjoyment and personal connection to songs.
  3. The rise of AI in content creation can lead to a lack of authentic experiences. Instead of meaningful interactions, people might just consume whatever the algorithms suggest, which can make everyone feel more isolated.

How to Get Boosted on Medium (with Insider Interview)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 619 implied HN points • 23 May 23
🚌 Education Writing Tips Online Learning Content creation Social media Digital Platforms
  1. Medium can boost your stories, giving them more views and exposure. Some writers have seen their stories gain 100,000 views and more, meaning good potential for recognition.
  2. There are five key criteria to get a story Boosted: it should be constructive, original, share relevant experience, be well-crafted, and memorable. Using these tips can increase your chances of being seen.
  3. Adding a human touch to your writing can make a big difference. While algorithms help, connecting with readers on an emotional level is what truly makes a story stand out.

Et tu, Substack?

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 13 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Social media Digital Platforms User Experience Online Communities Content creation
  1. Substack has introduced a feature called 'Notes' that users cannot turn off. This feels like forced participation to many writers.
  2. Many writers joined Substack to avoid the constant notifications and pressure of social media like Twitter.
  3. The changes to Substack have made some users reconsider their support for the platform and their plans to continue using it.

How writers, podcasters, and creators are building real communities on Substack

Substack • 409 implied HN points • 02 May 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Marketing Community Building Content creation Digital Platforms
  1. Using chat features on Substack helps writers attract more subscribers. When creators use chat, they often see 10% more subscribers at launch.
  2. Paywalled chat conversations can significantly boost paid subscriptions. Writers who have these chats are growing their revenue twice as fast as those without.
  3. Regular chat participation keeps subscribers engaged. Creators with ongoing chats are 12% more likely to retain their paid readers.

Why do some great PC/console games fail to 'go big'?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Data Analysis Tech news Game Development Digital Platforms
  1. Some great PC/console games may struggle to become popular despite positive ratings and marketing efforts.
  2. The genre of a game, such as 'Metroidvania', can impact its success due to market saturation and competition from existing popular titles.
  3. Publishers should focus on understanding player behavior, adapting marketing strategies, and fostering organic excitement to improve game reach and success.

Whatsapp Is Irreplaceable

Just Messaged • 99 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Messaging Social media Digital Platforms APIs E-commerce
  1. WhatsApp has become a dominant communication medium worldwide, surpassing traditional methods like phone calls and SMS.
  2. Zuckerberg's strategic acquisition of WhatsApp highlighted the value of its irreplaceability factor and led to the introduction of business solutions within the platform.
  3. The development of the WhatsApp Business API opened up new opportunities for businesses to interact with customers, paving the way for WhatsApp to become a potential super app with various functionalities.

Why games get big post-release discovery boosts

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 235 implied HN points • 10 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Influencers Mobile games Digital Platforms
  1. Games can experience surges in popularity post-release due to factors like multiplayer additions and influencer attention.
  2. Steam wishlist conversion rates may vary slightly based on the age of the wishlist, but older wishlists still have good potential for conversion.
  3. Different strategies, such as launching at 1.0, adding multiplayer features, or aiming for viral multiplayer success, can lead to post-release boosts in game discovery.

I posted 300+ Threads in 3 days

Both Are True • 531 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Social media Content creation Digital Platforms Technology impact Online behavior
  1. The author posted over 300 threads in 3 days on Threads app, narrating the experience and reflecting on the impact.
  2. Threads can be a platform for sharing thoughts and experiences, but the author also highlighted its distractions and questioned the significance.
  3. The text encourages reflecting on the meaning and impact of digital platforms like Threads, urging readers to consider their choices and values.

6 March is DMA-Day

Platform Papers • 59 implied HN points • 05 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Regulation Big Tech Compliance Market Impact Digital Platforms
  1. The Digital Markets Act (DMA) will enforce new rules on major digital platforms starting March 6, 2024, aiming to make markets fairer and more contestable for platforms like Apple, Google, Meta, TikTok, Amazon, and others.
  2. The DMA introduces obligations for gatekeepers to open up ecosystems, ensure fairness for business users, and promote transparency by submitting compliance plans publicly.
  3. The enforcement of DMA rules faces challenges from wealthy companies like Apple resisting compliance and the European Commission needing to balance limited resources with rigorous enforcement, highlighting the need for immediate action and collaboration with national agencies.

Brazil Bailed on Twitter, and So Did I: The Vibes Are Off

What the Blurb • 2 HN points • 05 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Social media Internet culture Tech Trends Digital Platforms User Experience
  1. Brazil's Supreme Court banning Twitter led to a big drop in users there, and many are trying out other platforms like Bluesky.
  2. Bluesky is gaining popularity because it has cool features that users find fun and engaging, unlike some other social media apps.
  3. The writer feels stuck between using both Threads and Bluesky, realizing social media is becoming more divided and siloed.

Is Sports Coverage Dying?

C.W.’s Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 14 Jul 23
🎾 Sports Media Audience Digital Platforms
  1. Newspapers are shifting away from traditional sports coverage due to the rise of digital platforms like The Athletic and team-specific internet sites.
  2. Printed newspapers are adapting to the decline in sports coverage by transforming into sports magazines with less emphasis on game stories.
  3. Gen Z is showing a lower interest in traditional sports viewing, preferring social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram to stay updated on sports content.

What everyone's getting wrong about Threads

Social Warming by Charles Arthur • 98 implied HN points • 04 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Social media Artificial Intelligence Content Generation Digital Platforms Tech industry
  1. Threads saw a rapid drop in initial signups, following a common pattern for new software launches.
  2. Criticism of Threads for having only an algorithmic timeline may not consider the need for engagement for new social networks.
  3. Threads aims to disrupt Twitter, still working on developing features to keep users engaged and improve user experience.

Are we in a simulation?

Cosmos • 39 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
🕹 Technology AI Content creation Digital Platforms Video Generation
  1. The future of education is moving towards the creator economy where professional creators earn by sharing knowledge and skills online.
  2. MrBeast, a popular YouTuber, generates significant revenue through his videos, brand deals, and business ventures but faces challenges with company culture and profitability.
  3. AI technology is advancing, with OpenAI's Sora creating remarkably realistic videos that almost look like real-life simulations, showcasing the potential impact on content creation and authenticity.

Decentralized Platforms and Web3

Platform Papers • 79 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Blockchain Web3 Decentralization Cryptocurrencies Digital Platforms
  1. Decentralized platforms operate without traditional managers by relying on decentralized algorithmic, social, and goal coordination mechanisms.
  2. Web3, as a new internet interaction model, allows users to own and exchange data without relying on central corporations.
  3. Decentralized platforms, like cryptocurrencies and DAOs, introduce a new class of digital economy competitors that require attention from industry, academia, and regulators.

My car is broken and so’s the car industry

Interesting bits • 78 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Automotive Software Digital Platforms Consumer Protection
  1. Car companies may not always address software issues promptly, leading to frustrations for car owners.
  2. As cars become more digital, their hardware may expire faster, requiring more frequent replacements.
  3. Regulatory efforts or restructuring the car industry may be needed to address issues of planned digital obsolescence and consumer protection.

Bugman Ratrace

Kneeling Bus • 78 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Digital Platforms
  1. Enshittification describes the gradual degradation of digital platforms.
  2. Platforms deteriorate by prioritizing business needs over user experience.
  3. Enshittification also affects physical products through quality declines and market consolidation.

King Elon, the Owner of the Ball

The Leftovers • 59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Social media Tech Companies Misinformation Advertising Digital Platforms
  1. Football games in childhood were impacted by the ownership of the ball, highlighting power dynamics within groups of kids.
  2. Elon Musk's actions as the 'Owner of the Ball' on Twitter have negatively affected the platform's value and functionality, leading to significant repercussions.
  3. Using Twitter effectively requires understanding its algorithms and limitations, as well as being cautious about how interactions and content are promoted.

Artists under Tech Censorship

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 112 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Censorship Digital Platforms
  1. Tech platforms have been de-platforming content creators based on speech, affecting regular individuals as well.
  2. Many artists face financial and professional repercussions when tech companies cut off their services without explanation.
  3. Balancing private company rights with free expression and addressing discrimination in tech censorship is a complex issue that requires more public discourse.

EU’s Digital Services Act is coming into effect

philsiarri • 44 implied HN points • 16 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Digital Platforms
  1. EU's Digital Services Act is being implemented to enhance safety, fairness, and transparency in the online environment.
  2. The Act brings increased protection for EU users against illegal content and goods, while also imposing responsibilities on online platforms.
  3. The EU Digital Services Act applies to various online platforms, including social media, marketplaces, app stores, search engines, and more, affecting 19 major platforms.