When Did the Sensationalism in Tech News Feel Exaggerated?

Any news media covering technology is inherently over-sensationalized. The hype surrounding any new technology or product is often exaggerated to the point of absurdity. This over-hyping is so pervasive that it leaves many readers skeptical and disenchanted. These exaggerated claims are not only present in technology press but also in social media, which further amplifies the narrative. In this article, I will explore how the media's sensationalism in tech coverage has evolved and when it feels most painfully exaggerated.

The Exaggeration of Tech News

When I read about any new technology in the news, the content is often rife with exaggerated claims and hype. It's so common that I have found myself barely bothering to engage with the articles anymore. The media seems to present itself as little more than thinly veiled advertisements, lacking any true integrity. Whether they are overhyping a new technology or hyping themselves, the level of exaggeration is hard to ignore.

Distinguishing Between News and Gossip

The line between news and gossip sites can often be blurred. In the context of mainstream media, I would categorize the exaggeration as manifesting more in the form of hype rather than objective reporting. However, on social media – also known as gossip sites – the exaggeration is even more prevalent. These platforms often serve more as a form of entertainment rather than a source of credibility.

When we talk about news media, I am referring to mainstream media sources (MSM) who are merely reporting someone's statement and its source. On social media, or what I refer to as gossip sites, the exaggeration is further amplified.

Historical Overhyping in Tech Innovations

Looking back, the media’s hype surrounding certain tech innovations was actually quite varied. While there were innovative and groundbreaking products that were initially met with too much hype, there were also instances where the media was relatively balanced in its coverage. For example, Apple's primary innovations such as the iPod, iPhone, and iPad were widely praised but not overly hyped.

One of the most notable overhyped technologies was the Segway. In the early 2000s, some in the media proclaimed that the Segway was going to "revolutionize walking." This was, of course, an exaggeration, and the reality was much different. The same can be said for other products such as Google Glass, the Internet of Things, and various venture-backed startups like WeWork and Dollar Shave Club.

The Role of Consultants in Media Sensationalism

The root of the excessive sensationalism in tech news lies in the influence of consultants. As media companies increasingly turned to professionals who could help maximize profits, truth and accuracy began to take a back seat. Consultants’ primary goal is to advise businesses on how to generate the most money, and they often do this by sensationalizing content to attract more viewers or readers.

This type of sensationalism is not limited to politically partisan stories. Even in the field of technology, where the audience is often more technologically inclined, sensationalism is still a powerful tool. Journalists are often urged to "punch up the lead" – a term that encourages them to exaggerate the lead to increase readership or viewership.

Ultimately, the problem lies in the fact that profits are the ultimate goal, and truth often takes a back seat. Real journalists are dedicated to reporting the truth, while consultants are more concerned with maximizing profits. This shift in focus has led to a significant increase in sensationalism in tech news coverage.