[jchw]

I do admit that this is a valid viewpoint. But also, the problem is that the choice is between “the data is collected” and “the data is not collected,” and ads being relevant is just a proxy for that. Even if a company was actually responsible with data and had a proven track record in data security, it just seems like unnecessary risk for something that is not very important to the end user.

I’ve learned to love more direct advertising. Granted, I will admit that NordVPN and Raycon may not provide the best or even in some cases most honest products, but the model they are using to advertise, by having reputable creators appeal to their viewers in enjoyable ways (see, for example, the way Internet Historian uses his signature video editing style and makes the whole ordeal of an advertisement into an over-the-top joke; people end up looking forward to these ad reads) is pretty solid, and it might have more room for growth with creators seeking more direct monetization with both their fans and sponsors alike.

Compared to that, even the most relevant ads generated by some algorithm will always feel impersonal. It’s a giant machine to me.