The Decay of the Digital Realm: How Silicon Valley ‘Enshittified’ the Internet

In the ever-evolving world of technology, a concerning trend has emerged, one that veteran tech critics like Cory Doctorow have termed ‘enshittification.’ This concept, which describes the gradual decline of online platforms and software over time, has become a focal point of discussion within the technology sector. As Sarah Jeong, features editor at The Verge, noted, the phenomenon is becoming increasingly apparent to even the most casual tech users.

Understanding ‘Enshittification’

The term ‘enshittification’ encapsulates the experience of a website or piece of software deteriorating, becoming worse over time. This decline, often referred to as platform decay, is driven by various factors, including the pursuit of profit, monopolistic practices, and the integration of technologies like generative AI. As Doctorow explains, enshittification is not just a product issue but also a legal and regulatory one, intertwined with the size and power of tech companies.

The Role of Big Tech and Monopolies

A key aspect of enshittification is the abuse of market dominance by large tech companies. As these entities grow, they gain the ability to manipulate their platforms with little to no consequence. Mark Zuckerberg’s emails, for example, outline plans to neutralize competitors, highlighting the lengths to which these companies go to maintain their power. This concentration of power allows them to prioritize profits over user experience, leading to the degradation of the very services they offer.

The Impact of AI and Digital Decay

The rise of generative AI has further accelerated the process of enshittification. The proliferation of ‘AI slop’ is making the digital landscape feel increasingly terrible. This intersection between AI and platform decay is critical, as it highlights how new technologies can exacerbate existing problems within the tech industry. It’s important to understand the effects of such advancements.

Legal and Regulatory Dimensions

The legal and regulatory environment plays a crucial role in shaping the tech industry. Laws and regulations, such as those governing copyright and Section 230, have had significant impacts. The question of how to curb monopoly power and prevent the abuse of market dominance is central to addressing enshittification. As the internet continues to evolve, so too must the legal frameworks that govern it.

Looking Ahead

The concept of enshittification serves as a warning, urging us to recognize and address the forces undermining our digital experiences. The conversation surrounding this issue is not just about the products we use but also about the legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks that shape the tech industry. As we move forward, a critical examination of these elements is necessary to ensure a healthier, more user-centric digital environment.

Sources:

Enshittification | Macmillan
Why every website you used to love is getting worse | Vox
The age of Enshittification | The New Yorker
Yes, everything online sucks now — but it doesn’t have to | Ars Technica
The enshittification of garage-door openers reveals a vast and deadly rot | Cory Doctorow
Mark Zuckerberg emails outline plan to neutralize competitors | The Verge
Google gets to keep Chrome, judge rules in search antitrust case | The Verge
How Amazon wins: by steamrolling rivals and partners | WSJ
A DRM standard has been approved for the web, and security researchers are worried | The Verge
Netflix, Microsoft, and Google just quietly changed how the web works | The Outline