Plattformverfall: Enshittifizierung: Wenn digitale Dienste schlechter werden

Enshittification, also known as digital degradation, is a phenomenon where digital services gradually worsen over time. This term, coined by Canadian-Canadian journalist Cory Doctorow, describes how services initially created to solve a problem, eventually become monetized by increasing prices or degrading the user experience. Christine Steffen, a consumer representative from North Rhine-Westphalia, explains how this process unfolds and what users can do about it.

Enshittification typically begins when a service offers free access to users, aiming to generate revenue later. Prices may rise, or the experience may deteriorate, making the service less enjoyable for users. Users often accept this degradation due to platform effects, switching to paid versions to avoid them. One example is the shift from free to paid subscription in language learning apps or the increase of advertisements on social media platforms.

Users encounter enshittification in various daily services, from streaming platforms and social media to gaming, shopping, and fitness apps. This process often involves more advertisements, leading users to consider paid subscriptions for better experiences. Additionally, there are concerns that commercialization of services is planned from the start, as data collection and monetization become the primary goals.

Smart home devices, streaming services, and even games can be affected by enshittification. For instance, the discontinuation of cloud services or server shutdowns can abruptly render these devices and experiences unusable. Users may not notice the degradation until it's too late, as they have become dependent on the platform.

To tackle enshittification, Steffen advises that users should be aware of the consequences of their choices and consider alternatives when a service deteriorates. While legal measures like contract termination rights can help, finding alternative services can be challenging. However, expressing dissatisfaction through consumer agencies or public pressure can sometimes prompt companies to reconsider their actions.

Ultimately, the power to change enshittification lies in individual awareness and the decision to disengage from deteriorating services.