Tech Girl Debrief

EP25: Meta’s Ad Free Subscription & 23andme Files for Bankruptcy

TECH GIRL ENERGY: The Weekly Debrief

Episode 25 – Meta’s Ad Free Subscription & 23andme Files for Bankruptcy

Harriet Taylor and Numi Gildert dive into their favourite tech headlines of the week;

Meta’s Ad-Free Subscription Model

  • Topic Overview: Meta considers introducing a paid subscription model in the UK for ad-free experiences on Facebook and Instagram, following its EU implementation.
  • Discussion Points:
    • Prospective cost of £5 per month.
    • Comparison to streaming service models.
    • Mixed reactions from hosts; concerns about social media usage habits and potential user base implications.

Ethical Concerns with DNA Testing Services

  • Focus Story: Data breach at American genetic testing firm, 23andMe, leading to bankruptcy fears.
  • Key Issues Discussed:
    • Privacy risks associated with sensitive genetic data being accessed by third parties or used commercially without consent.
    • Potential ramifications for users regarding health insurance premiums in countries like the US where private healthcare is predominant.

Wider Implications of Digital Literacy

  • Importance of building critical thinking around digital services and technologies among users to understand risks involved in sharing personal data online.

LINKS:

Ad-free Insta: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0kglle0p3vo  

23andme Bankruptcy: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/mar/25/opt-out-23andme-account-dna-data-privacy

 

 

Don’t forget to follow Harriet and Numi at @techgirlenergy on all social platforms.

You can find this, and all our other episodes at http://www.IM-Listening.co.uk or wherever you listen to your podcasts.