Powtoons and the Battle for Digital Freedom: YouTube’s Hijacking and the Search for Alternative Solutions
The Issue with Powtoons
Recently, updates to the Powtoons website in November 2020 have significantly altered the user experience. Gone are the animated transitions and engaging design elements that once made the platform enjoyable and user-friendly. While some new animations were introduced, the overall impact is notably negative, with many users finding the changes annoying and detracting from the creative experience. The search forums and community channels for Powtoons have been largely silent on this issue, leaving many users feeling unheard and unsupported. This raises questions about the future of user feedback and the power dynamics at play within creative digital platforms.
The Broader Context: Net Neutrality and Digital Control
The broader issue at play here ties into the ongoing battle for net neutrality. President Biden has pledged to restore net neutrality, which is a critical component of ensuring a fair and open internet. The absence of net neutrality means that large corporations can influence the speed and visibility of digital content, thus controlling the flow of information and ideas. A good example is Disney Corporation, which owns 90 percent of all animated franchises in the US. They can, and have, flexed their muscle in ways that can affect independent platforms like Powtoons.
Freedom of Speech and Expression
At the heart of this issue lies the fundamental principles of freedom of speech and expression. These principles are under threat as the new world order agenda seeks to suppress free expression in public discourse. When platforms like YouTube were hijacked by powerful tech giants, the public hoped for alternatives that would preserve these freedoms. Unfortunately, this hope has not materialized. Instead, the new order has intensified its efforts against the public, reminiscent of the conflicts surrounding free speech and digital platforms in recent years.
The Role of Mega Entities
The rise of mega entities, such as MEGA CORP and MEGA GOVERNMENT, further exacerbates these issues. These entities seek to dominate the internet, suppressing diverse voices and ideas in favor of their own agendas. Examples such as Google Inc’s legal battle against an original YouTube tech team, which resulted in the team being financially drained, illustrate the extent of these monopolistic practices.
A Call for Hope and Action
Despite the stark reality of the current situation, there is still hope for the future. The restoration of net neutrality could represent a significant shift, potentially restoring a truly free and open internet where independent voices can thrive. While the prospects may be slim, the hope remains – a glimmer of light in the dark landscape of digital control. It is crucial for users, creators, and platforms like Powtoons to continue fighting for their rights and the preservation of digital freedom in the face of overwhelming corporate and governmental control.