Big Tech companies are practically everywhere in our lives and they influence us in ways that we don’t usually even notice. Whether it’s the gadgets we use or the apps we rely on, their power stretches far & wide to influence our choices, our habits—even the information we see every day. Here are nine ways these big tech companies might be steering your life without you realizing it. Perhaps it’s time for us all to make a few changes.
Featured Image Credit: sdecoret /Depositphotos.com.
Default Apps Steering Your Choices
Your devices often come with pre-installed apps set as the default options, such as the web browser that opens links or the maps app that gives you directions. Even though you might think nothing of it, these defaults push you toward using certain services, unless you take the time to change the settings. You could be using these apps simply because they’re already set up and not because they’re the best option for you.
Control Over App Stores’ Limiting Choices
Companies that run app stores decide which apps are available for you to download, such as on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. They’re able to remove apps that compete with their own services or create strict guidelines that make it hard for certain apps to get approved. Such control could mean that you miss out on alternatives that are better for your needs—just because they’re not allowed in the store.
Smart Home Devices Listening In
Your smart speakers and other connected gadgets pick up more than you might think, as these devices have microphones & cameras that are always on by default. Companies usually collect audio recordings or usage data to improve their services—or for other reasons. You may not realize it but you could be sharing personal conversations just by having these devices in your home.
Limited Repair Options Keeping You Dependent
Have you tried fixing your phone or laptop lately? Big tech companies sometimes make their products hard to repair by using special parts & software locks, meaning you have to go through their authorized repair services. This is often costly and time-consuming—it also limits your options. You’re kept tied to Big Tech’s ecosystem whenever something breaks, with no option to look elsewhere.
Data Collection on Non-Users
It doesn’t matter if you don’t use social media or other apps because companies might still collect data about you, as your friends could upload photos that include you, or contact lists with your information. This gives companies valuable data that they may use to build profiles on people who aren’t even users, gathering data without direct consent. Your privacy is essentially a thing of the past, even though you might avoid Big Tech’s products entirely.
Influencing Education Through Technology in Schools
Many schools use software and devices that Big Tech companies give them for free or at a discount, which, on the surface, seems helpful. But it also gives these companies access to a young audience & their data so they may collect information on students’ activities. They’re also able to influence how future generations use technology and their opinions on these companies.
Sneaky Data Sharing in the Fine Print
Most of us click the “Agree” button without reading those lengthy terms of service—but hidden in that small print, companies have clauses letting them share your data with others. This means that your personal info could end up with third parties that you’ve never heard of because these companies sold your data. They might use your information for targeted ads or even sell it—all without your explicit consent.
Feeds Controlled by Hidden Algorithms
Algorithms decide what you see on your social media & in your search results, which Big Tech designs to keep you engaged—they prioritize content that keeps you scrolling. Unfortunately, you’ll likely miss out on other viewpoints because the algorithm doesn’t think that they’ll keep you interested. As a result, the algorithm completely controls your thoughts & knowledge since you only see what it wants you to see.
Biased AI Making Unfair Decisions
Artificial intelligence (AI) is now part of things like hiring processes & credit checks, which isn’t great news because these AIs could have hidden biases. They could make decisions that aren’t fair, like unintentionally favoring certain groups when going through job applications. This means you might miss out on opportunities without ever knowing why and since these systems don’t have any transparency, it’s hard to challenge these biases.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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