The Rise of Parasitic Tech Journalism in a Digital Age
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Chapter 1: The Current Landscape of Tech Journalism
This article may come off as a bit of a rant, but I aim to keep focused on the core issue at hand. I intend to explore this topic thoroughly and hopefully conclude on a positive note, as mere complaints lead nowhere. This is a critique of tech writers, bloggers, and vloggers who profit from the insatiable demand for tech news without fulfilling the basic responsibilities of thorough research. The internet is overflowing with sensationalized tech content, which is startling. On top of that, we now face a wave of so-called "journalists" who simply recycle the hard work and investments of others.
If I claim that half of tech journalists operate as parasites, relying on the original work of dedicated journalists and analysts, I might still be underestimating the reality.
Although I don’t write for major tech outlets like The Verge, I possess a solid understanding of journalistic integrity. I admit to having crossed that line occasionally, but I strive to avoid such lapses. My commitment is evident; every tech product I review is something I've personally experienced and purchased. If I review a product, you can trust that it has been on my desk for an extended period or is still in use.
The reason I confidently stand behind my reviews is that I want to assure my readers that my content is genuine. This sets me apart from many other "tech writers" who may not have even interacted with the devices they're discussing.
Dear tech reviewers, please refrain from evaluating products you haven’t actually used.
If you're curious about the success of creators like Snazzy, MKBHD, Luke Miani, and iJustine, it's primarily because they produce authentic content. Their focus has always been more on delivering a meaningful message than on high production quality. Each of them, in their unique style, discusses technology they've personally tested. Even channels like MaxTech and LTT, though I find their style overly sensationalized, still provide reviews based on actual experiences. This hands-on approach is what legitimizes a tech journalist's review. Anything less borders on copyright infringement or should be labeled as fiction.
Chapter 2: The Challenges of Writing in Tech
Writing can be deceptively easy. Even someone with no prior experience can churn out 700 words after watching a few YouTube videos. Add a catchy headline, and voila! You've created a clickbait piece that garners attention and provokes backlash in the comments.
In this digital landscape, I've noticed an increasing number of writers posing as tech enthusiasts. While I don’t doubt their passion, there is a significant distinction between being an enthusiast and a tech journalist. The former is about personal enjoyment, while the latter focuses on engaging readers with thoughtful content.
I don’t expect tech writers to be perfect; I embrace mediocrity. If it’s acceptable for greats like Woody Allen, it’s sufficient for most of us. I anticipate tech writers to find a balance between quality and mediocrity, as anything lower is parasitic. Such writing exploits a low-barrier medium and misleads readers seeking valuable information. Authenticity, rather than marketing fluff, is essential.
Just because writing a tech article is simple doesn't justify poor quality or misleading reviews.
Section 2.1: Alternative Approaches to Tech Writing
This is not to say that enthusiasts can’t contribute valuable tech content. In fact, there are numerous creative ways to engage with technology without needing to physically possess the products.
- Speculative Stories: While not my favorite, when executed well, they can be thought-provoking. This format requires theoretical knowledge and research, making it a legitimate form of tech writing. Sites like MacRumors often delve into this territory.
- Listicles: I personally dislike them, but they appeal to many. You can create lists from various sources, such as “Top 10 MacBook Reviews of 2022.”
- Critiques: Expressing opinions about tech events and products can be insightful. I frequently write about Apple events, sharing my impressions and speculating on the implications for the tech industry.
- Columns: I’ve previously discussed the merits of columns. They allow for personal opinions to take center stage, transforming otherwise ordinary topics into compelling reads.
Chapter 3: Upholding Journalistic Integrity
In conclusion, while tech reviews are popular, they should be reserved for those who have genuinely engaged with the technology. This niche represents only a fraction of the broader tech journalism landscape, which can be far more rewarding. Reviews have a fleeting relevance of 6 to 12 months, whereas speculative pieces or opinion columns can maintain their value for years if they are sufficiently abstract.
One's journalistic integrity should never be compromised for a review of a product or service they haven't utilized. Resorting to regurgitating others’ work and misrepresenting it as your own is as unethical as swapping out a child in a hospital for one you prefer. If I had a penny for every fabricated review of the M1 Pro and M2 Air I've encountered on platforms like Medium, I’d be quite wealthy!
For the sake of readers everywhere, write about what you know and have actually tried. That’s the only way to ensure honest writing.
Apologies for the strong language, but I’m passionate about this topic.
As a side note, I recently launched a new publication called Bricks n’ Brackets, focusing on LEGO, tech, and coding. I would greatly appreciate your support if you find these subjects interesting. You can also learn more about my objectives for the publication and even join as a contributor, provided your articles align with the themes. We also have a presence on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Thank you for your support, and may creativity and success accompany you!
Attila Vago — A software engineer striving to improve the world one line of code at a time. A lifelong nerd, passionate about coding, web accessibility, LEGO, and vinyl records. Cheers to craft beer!