its like how 30 years ago when people would numblessly flip through hundreds of cable channels for hours, but with endless tailored content and extra dopamine shots on top from social feedback
its very telling how, while youtube (classic) also has these same ingredients, the ux of looking through a menu is far less addicting than the slot machine mechanism from swiping up
Apparently the whole scene was a single spline. Assuming it was indeed a single RT render take, its definitely a jaw dropping demo. Curious to learn if this turns out to be just vaporware or actually an epic redemption arc.
Many businesses already have WhatsApp as the exclusive channel of communication. So its either have a Meta account, or become locked out of a subset of services. Not to mention how many work/social groups use also WhatsApp exclusively. To try to force everyone to use something like Matrix is an herculean task, which also requires maintenance.
And then there are all the government/school/work/authentication apps that are mobile only and exclusive to iOS and Android.
IMO its impossible to walk away from it. The ship has sailed. It is possible to move away as far as you can and keep these accounts and their usage to a minimum, but its time consuming and has little rewards against many obstacles. Atm I'm willing to put in the effort but I also totally understand it not being a reasonable option for most.
Yes, in theory around 40% -> 50%, with it fluctuating over time.
However in practice imported electronics tend to cost up to about 100% then their original price abroad for several reasons, usually but not exclusively related to difficulties in 3rd world countries e.g. bribes necessary to get the shipment, insurance over shipment theft, margin risk due to volatile forex, etc
For example, atm an iPhone 14 costs 800 USD in the US Apple Store and 7600 Brazilian Reais in the Brazilian one. With the current exchange rate at ~5.20, that's around 80% more. Not that bad actually, that ratio has been worse in the past.
its very telling how, while youtube (classic) also has these same ingredients, the ux of looking through a menu is far less addicting than the slot machine mechanism from swiping up