India bans streaming apps you’ve never heard of — but millions watch | TechCrunch
The article you've shared highlights a significant move by India’s tech sector—streaming app companies have been banned for promoting content that may be considered offensive or violate Indian laws. According to the linked TechCrunch article, India has issued an order blocking 25 streaming services, which include some with millions of viewers and even paying subscribers. These services are believed to promote "obscene" content, though their exact nature remains unclear.### Why These Apps Are Being Blocked
The ban comes after a report by the Indian government’s Office for Civil society Coordination & Development (FCC) that identifies over 150 apps promoting content that could be considered offensive or illegal. The reasoning is that these apps target audiences of color and other marginalized groups, potentially engaging in harmful behavior or providing access to harmful content. Many of these services also offer high-cost features like premium subscriptions, which may have made them more appealing to paying subscribers.
### Target Audience
This move likely resonates with tech enthusiasts, streaming app users, and individuals who are concerned about the impact of promoting offensive content on marginalized communities. It could particularly concern users from color minority communities or those interested in inclusive technologies.
### Why a Blocking Order?
The inclusion of these apps in the ban may be due to concerns over their potential to harm users or erode social cohesion. While it’s unclear whether all 25 services are promoting offensive content, some could still target marginalized groups or provide access to harmful material. The government likely imposed the ban as a proactive step to ensure that streaming services don’t spread harmful content in India.
### What Happened After?
The bans have sparked controversy among consumers, critics, and tech professionals alike. Some users feel targeted or unfairly excluded from their viewing experiences, while others argue that these apps should be removed entirely rather than just blocked. The move reflects broader concerns about the enforcement of laws on streaming platforms and the potential for companies to provide content that could harm marginalized communities.
### What Happens Next?
The situation is still under investigation, with several steps being taken to address it. Many users are likely looking into alternatives or seeking ways to avoid paying for these services in the future. Tech enthusiasts may also be researching alternative streaming platforms or software solutions designed to promote inclusive content.
In summary, India’s ban on 25 streaming apps targets users from color minority communities and other marginalized groups, promoting "obscene" content. While the exact details of what each service is promoting remain unclear, this move underscores a broader discussion about how tech companies can prioritize inclusivity and social justice in their operations.
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