Technology Explained

How Social Media is Changing the Way We Consume News

Published

1 year ago

December 20, 2024

Matthew Montoya

Reviewed
By Harris Hubbard

How Social Media is Changing the Way We Consume News

In the digital age, the landscape of news consumption has undergone a seismic shift, largely driven by the proliferation of social media platforms. Social media has redefined how we access, share, and engage with news content, reshaping the traditional news industry and influencing public discourse. This article delves into the transformative impact of social media on news consumption, examining the benefits, challenges, and future implications of this evolving phenomenon.

The Rise of Social Media as a News Source

The advent of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok has democratized information dissemination. Unlike traditional news outlets, which often require significant resources and infrastructure, social media allows anyone with internet access to share news and information instantaneously. This has led to a more decentralized and diverse news ecosystem, where a multitude of voices can be heard.

According to a 2021 report by the Pew Research Center, about 48% of U.S. adults get their news from social media “often” or “sometimes.” This trend is even more pronounced among younger demographics, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok becoming increasingly popular sources of news for millennials and Generation Z.

Benefits of Social Media News Consumption

1. Accessibility and Convenience

One of the most significant advantages of social media news consumption is its accessibility. Users can access news updates in real-time, regardless of their location. This immediacy allows people to stay informed about global events as they unfold, fostering a more connected and informed society.

2. Diverse Perspectives

Social media platforms host a wide range of content creators, from established news organizations to independent journalists and citizen reporters. This diversity of sources provides users with multiple perspectives on a single issue, enabling them to form a more nuanced understanding of complex topics.

3. Engagement and Interaction

Unlike traditional news media, which is often a one-way communication channel, social media facilitates interaction and engagement. Users can comment on, share, and discuss news stories, creating a more participatory news culture. This interactivity can lead to more robust public discourse and a deeper engagement with current events.

4. Personalization

Social media algorithms curate content based on users’ preferences and behaviors, delivering personalized news feeds. This tailored approach ensures that users receive news stories that align with their interests, making news consumption more relevant and engaging.

Picture by: Yandex.com

Challenges and Concerns

1. Misinformation and Fake News

One of the most pressing challenges of social media news consumption is the proliferation of misinformation and fake news. The speed and ease with which false information can spread on social media platforms pose significant risks to public understanding and trust. Algorithms that prioritize engagement over accuracy can exacerbate this issue, as sensational or misleading content often garners more attention.

2. Echo Chambers and Filter Bubbles

The personalization of news feeds, while convenient, can also lead to echo chambers and filter bubbles. These phenomena occur when users are exposed predominantly to information that reinforces their existing beliefs, limiting their exposure to diverse viewpoints. This can contribute to polarization and hinder constructive dialogue.

3. Credibility and Verification

The decentralized nature of social media means that not all news sources are equally credible. Distinguishing between reliable and unreliable sources can be challenging for users, leading to potential misinformation. The lack of rigorous editorial standards on social media platforms further complicates the verification process.

4. Impact on Traditional Journalism

The rise of social media as a primary news source has disrupted traditional journalism. News organizations face declining revenues as advertising dollars shift to digital platforms. This financial strain can impact the quality and depth of journalism, as newsrooms may be forced to cut staff or reduce investigative reporting efforts.

The Future of News Consumption

As social media continues to evolve, its impact on news consumption will likely grow. Several trends and developments are worth noting:

1. Enhanced Fact-Checking and Verification

In response to the challenges of misinformation, social media platforms are increasingly investing in fact-checking and verification initiatives. Partnerships with independent fact-checking organizations and the development of AI-driven tools to identify false information are steps in the right direction. However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

2. Rise of Video and Multimedia Content

The popularity of video content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram is reshaping how news is presented and consumed. Short-form videos, live streams, and multimedia storytelling are becoming more prevalent, catering to users’ preferences for visual and engaging content.

3. Greater Emphasis on Digital Literacy

As social media becomes a dominant news source, digital literacy education is crucial. Teaching users how to critically evaluate information, recognize credible sources, and navigate the digital news landscape can help mitigate the risks of misinformation and echo chambers.

4. Integration of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Emerging technologies like AR and VR have the potential to revolutionize news consumption by offering immersive and interactive experiences. These technologies can provide users with a more engaging and in-depth understanding of news events, from virtual tours of conflict zones to interactive data visualizations.

Conclusion

Social media has undeniably transformed the way we consume news, offering unparalleled accessibility, diversity, and engagement. However, this shift also brings significant challenges, including the spread of misinformation, the creation of echo chambers, and the disruption of traditional journalism. As we navigate this evolving landscape, it is essential to balance the benefits of social media news consumption with efforts to address its challenges. By fostering digital literacy, enhancing fact-checking mechanisms, and embracing new technologies, we can harness the power of social media to create a more informed and connected world.

Author

Matthew Montoya

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Right Software Development Partner in India for Your 2026 Startup

Published

1 day ago

February 17, 2026

ratanraj

Starting a startup in 2026 feels exciting, but also confusing. You have an idea, maybe even a small team, yet one big question always appears first: who will build your product? Most founders are not programmers. They need reliable custom software development services to turn their idea into a real app, website, or platform.

India has become one of the most trusted places for startups to build software. Why? Because you get skilled engineers, global experience, and affordable pricing in one place. From fintech apps in Dubai to healthcare software used in Europe and the US, many young companies rely on Indian development partners.

In this article, we will understand how startups should choose a development partner and explore ten reliable Indian companies that provide custom software development services suitable for early-stage businesses.

How to Choose the Right Development Partner

Before hiring any company, a founder should understand what they actually need. A startup does not require a huge corporate vendor. It needs guidance and flexibility.

Here is a simple decision checklist-

Do they build MVPs for startups or only big enterprise projects?
Do they help with product planning or just coding?
Do they offer cloud setup on AWS or Google Cloud?
Can they explain technical ideas in simple English?
Do they support your product after launch?

A good provider of custom software development services acts like a technical cofounder. They tell you what features to delay, how to save cost, and how to launch faster. For example, many fintech startups first build only login, wallet, and payment features. They add analytics later. This approach saves both time and money.

Top 10 Software Development Companies in India for Startups

Below are ten reliable companies suitable for startup founders. Each offers custom software development and flexible engagement.

1. AppSquadz

AppSquadz focuses on startup MVP development and scalable digital products. They provide mobile app development, SaaS platforms, cloud solutions, and custom software development services based on business needs. Many education and healthcare startups choose them for UI/UX guidance and post-launch support.

2. Konstant Infosolutions

Known for mobile applications, especially ecommerce and booking apps. Startups launching marketplace platforms often use their affordable software development services. They have experience with payment integrations and real time chat systems.

3. TatvaSoft

This custom application development company works with startups building web platforms and dashboards. They are strong in NET and React technologies. Several SaaS products serving the logistics industry were built by their teams.

4. PixelCrayons

Popular among international founders from the UK and Dubai. They offer dedicated developer hiring. Many early stage companies choose them when they need quick product development without hiring an internal team.

5. OpenXcell

A good option for AI and blockchain based startups. If your idea includes automation, chatbots, or analytics tools, they provide custom software development services with consulting support.

6. Radixweb

This firm helps startups scale after launch. Suppose your app suddenly gets 50000 users. They help migrate it to AWS and optimize performance. That makes them useful for growing SaaS businesses.

7. MindInventory

Strong in UI and UX design. Many founders do not realize how important user experience is. This company focuses on making apps easy to use, which improves customer retention.

8. Hidden Brains

A long established custom software development provider that works with fintech and healthcare software projects. They also build ERP systems for startups entering manufacturing.

9. Net Solutions

Useful for ecommerce startups. They have experience with Shopify and headless commerce platforms. Many D2C brands launching online stores work with them.

10. SPEC INDIA

They focus on data driven platforms and analytics dashboards. Startups handling large customer data sets or reporting tools benefit from their expertise.

Why Startups Prefer India in 2026

A few years ago startups hired freelancers. Today they prefer a custom application development company. The reason is simple: startups now build complex products. Think about apps using AI, payment gateways, cloud storage, and real time chat. One freelancer cannot manage everything. India offers three big advantages:

First, cost. A startup in the United States may spend $120000 to build an MVP. In India the same project can often be done for $15000 to $30000 using affordable software development services.

Second, cloud knowledge. Many Indian teams work daily with AWS and Google Cloud. They know how to make scalable systems. This means your app will not crash when 100 users become 10000 users.

Third, startup understanding. Indian companies now follow agile methods. They release small updates weekly instead of waiting six months.

You might ask: Is cheaper always lower quality? No. Many Indian developers build SaaS products used worldwide. Cost is lower mainly because operating expenses are lower, not because skill is lower.

Conclusion

Choosing the right development partner in 2026 is not just a technical decision — it’s a strategic one. For early-stage startups, the company you hire will directly influence your product quality, launch speed, scalability, and even investor confidence.

India continues to be a preferred destination because it offers a strong balance of cost efficiency, technical expertise, and startup-focused execution. However, the real advantage does not come from geography alone , it comes from selecting a partner who understands MVP thinking, agile development, cloud scalability, and long-term product growth.

FAQs

1. Why do startups prefer hiring Indian software development companies?

Startups prefer Indian companies because they offer a strong balance of cost efficiency, technical expertise, and scalable development practices. Many firms in India have global experience working with startups from the US, Europe, and the Middle East, making them comfortable with international standards and agile workflows.

2. How much does it cost to build an MVP in India?

The cost of building a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in India typically ranges between $15,000 and $30,000, depending on complexity, features, and technology stack. More advanced platforms involving AI, fintech integrations, or complex dashboards may cost more.

3. How long does it take to develop a startup MVP?

Most startup MVPs take 8 to 16 weeks to develop. Simple apps with limited features can launch faster, while SaaS platforms or fintech products may require additional time for backend development, security setup, and testing.

4. Should startups hire freelancers or a development company?

Freelancers may work for very small projects, but modern startup products often require backend development, UI/UX design, cloud setup, testing, and ongoing support. A development company provides a structured team, project management, and long-term maintenance — reducing risk for early-stage founders.

5. What should startups look for before signing a development contract?

Before signing, startups should check:

Portfolio of similar startup projects
Clear pricing structure
Post-launch support policy
Ownership of source code
Experience with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services and Google Cloud

Author

ratanraj

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Digital Development

Vhsgjqm: Understanding Abstract Identifiers in the Digital Age

Published

1 week ago

February 11, 2026

articlesreader

In our increasingly digital world, unique terms like Vhsgjqm often catch our attention due to their abstract structure and unfamiliar appearance. While conventional words, brands, or names tend to carry explicit meanings or cultural significance, Vhsgjqm exists primarily as a concept shaped by how it is utilized rather than by any inherent definition. This article explores the potential origins, interpretations, digital presence, applications, and overall significance of Vhsgjqm, highlighting its relevance in contemporary discourse.

Understanding Vhsgjqm: An Abstract Identifier

At first glance, Vhsgjqm may appear as a random string of letters devoid of meaning. However, this abstraction does not lessen its importance. In digital and technical contexts, abstract identifiers are often favored for their neutrality. They are free from cultural biases, linguistic limitations, and preconceived notions that traditional words may carry.

Vhsgjqm serves as a versatile identifier that can represent various concepts or entities without enforcing a specific meaning or interpretation. In this context, its value emerges not from historical roots or etymology but from the situations in which it is employed. This flexibility enables Vhsgjqm to take on different meanings as it adapts to varying contexts.

Vhsgjqm

Possible Origins of Vhsgjqm

The undisclosed origin of Vhsgjqm is not uncommon for abstract digital terminology. Its structure suggests it may have been created through algorithmic processes or deliberate randomization. These methods are often employed in modern technology to generate unique identifiers, ensuring no duplicates exist.

Potential origins for terms like Vhsgjqm include software development environments, experimental digital projects, or testing scenarios where unique labels are required. Unlike traditional names that evolve through cultural influences or linguistic changes, Vhsgjqm likely emerged from the necessities of technology and programming rather than historical or social factors.

The Role of Vhsgjqm in Digital Environments

Vhsgjqm integrates seamlessly into the digital realm, where uniqueness often takes precedence over semantic meaning. In numerous systems, identifiers must remain distinct to avoid conflicts or confusion. Abstract terms like Vhsgjqm excel in this regard, as they are less likely to overlap with existing keywords or identifiers.

In various fields—including application development, data management, and content testing—Vhsgjqm serves as a neutral marker. Its emergence enables developers and researchers to track performance and behavior effectively, free from interference by external associations. This neutrality makes it a valuable tool for analysis, experimentation, and innovation.

Symbolic Interpretations of Vhsgjqm

Despite its lack of a literal definition, users often assign symbolic meanings to Vhsgjqm. In discussions concerning identity and representation, the term can embody ideas such as anonymity, experimentation, and the evolving nature of digital existence. Its neutrality allows it to act as a blank canvas, onto which users can project their meanings and interpretations.

In this sense, Vhsgjqm reflects broader shifts in how online identities are formulated. Rather than being rooted in conventional language or cultural history, digital identifiers increasingly derive their significance from their functionality, context, and the interactions they facilitate.

Impact on Modern Digital Culture

The increasing prevalence of abstract terms like Vhsgjqm underscores significant trends in digital culture. As the internet becomes more globalized, there is a heightened need for identifiers that are universally neutral. Traditional vocabulary can carry unintended connotations or meanings across different languages and cultures. In contrast, abstract identifiers sidestep these potential pitfalls.

Vhsgjqm embodies a shift in how digital systems prioritize efficiency, scalability, and uniqueness. Its very design accommodates platforms that operate across diverse languages and communities without relying on culturally specific terms or phrases.

Practical Applications of Vhsgjqm

Despite its abstract nature, Vhsgjqm has numerous practical applications. For example, it can serve as a project codename during development phases, act as a temporary label in research studies, or function as a unique identifier in testing environments. Its lack of prior associations renders it particularly useful for conducting controlled experiments.

Abstract names like Vhsgjqm may also play a role in experimental branding. Although unconventional, such identifiers can help a product or service stand out in crowded digital markets—especially when such names are supported by strong contextual narratives or branding strategies.

Challenges and Limitations of Vhsgjqm

While Vhsgjqm offers remarkable flexibility and neutrality, it also presents several challenges. Its absence of intrinsic meaning may make it difficult for users to remember or connect emotionally with the term. Human communication often depends on familiarity and storytelling; abstract terms commonly lack these elements.

Additionally, for Vhsgjqm to gain widespread recognition, consistent usage accompanied by proper context is critical. Without clear explanations or consistent application, the term can appear confusing or meaningless to those unfamiliar with it.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Vhsgjqm

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the use of abstract identifiers like Vhsgjqm is poised to rise. With advancements in artificial intelligence, automation, and expansive data systems, unique naming conventions that prioritize function over form will increasingly come to the forefront.

Over time, Vhsgjqm could accrue significance through its repeated usage within specific contexts. This transformation—from a mere abstract string to a recognized identifier—illustrates that meaning in the digital age often develops through interaction rather than origin.

Conclusion

Vhsgjqm stands as a testament to the modern evolution of language, identity, and functionality within online environments. Although it lacks a conventional definition or rich historical background, its uniqueness and adaptability bestow both practical and conceptual value.

Ultimately, Vhsgjqm exemplifies that meaning in the digital sphere often arises not from the words themselves but from how and why they are utilized. As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, abstract identifiers like Vhsgjqm serve as compelling examples of new paradigms emerging in communication, reflecting our changing understanding of identity and meaning in the digital age.

Author

articlesreader

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Costumer Services

SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails: A Comprehensive Guide

Published

2 weeks ago

February 4, 2026

sacjim

Introduction

If you’re facing problems with SBCGlobal email not receiving emails, you’re not alone. Many users experience email delivery issues caused by server settings, outdated configurations, or account security errors. This guide will walk you through why your SBCGlobal email might not be receiving messages, how to fix it step-by-step, and when to contact professional suppor for advanced troubleshooting.

What Is SBCGlobal Email?

SBCGlobal.net is a legacy email service originally provided by Southwestern Bell Corporation, which later merged with AT&T. Even though new SBCGlobal accounts are no longer being created, millions of users still access their SBCGlobal email through AT&T’s Yahoo Mail platform.

However, because SBCGlobal operates on older infrastructure and server settings, users sometimes experience email syncing, login, or receiving issues especially when using third-party apps or outdated settings.

Common Reasons SBCGlobal Email Is Not Receiving Emails

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to identify what might be causing the issue. Below are the most frequent culprits behind SBCGlobal email receiving problems:

Incorrect Email Settings: If your incoming (IMAP/POP3) or outgoing (SMTP) settings are incorrect, emails won’t load properly.
Server Outages: Temporary outages or server maintenance by AT&T or Yahoo may interrupt incoming mail delivery.
Storage Limit Reached: When your mailbox exceeds its storage limit, new emails are automatically rejected.
Spam or Filter Rules: Overly strict filters or incorrect spam settings might send legitimate emails to the Junk or Trash folder.
Browser Cache or App Glitches: Cached data and outdated email apps can disrupt syncing or message retrieval.
Blocked Senders or Blacklisted IPs: Accidentally blocking a sender or being on a spam blacklist may prevent messages from reaching your inbox.
Security or Account Lock Issues: Suspicious login attempts or password errors can cause temporary account restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails

Let’s go through a series of troubleshooting steps to help you restore your email flow. You can perform these solutions on both desktop and mobile platforms.

1. Check SBCGlobal Email Server Status

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end.
Go to Downdetector or AT&T’s official website to see if SBCGlobal or AT&T Mail is down.
If there’s an outage, you’ll need to wait until the service is restored.

2. Verify Your Internet Connection

Ensure your device has a stable and fast internet connection. Poor connectivity can stop your email client from syncing or fetching new messages.

3. Update Incoming and Outgoing Mail Server Settings

Outdated or incorrect settings are the most common reason SBCGlobal email stops receiving messages. Here are the correct configurations:

Common Reasons SBCGlobal Email Is Not Receiving Emails

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to identify what might be causing the issue. Below are the most frequent culprits behind SBCGlobal email receiving problems:

Incorrect Email Settings: If your incoming (IMAP/POP3) or outgoing (SMTP) settings are incorrect, emails won’t load properly.
Server Outages: Temporary outages or server maintenance by AT&T or Yahoo may interrupt incoming mail delivery.
Storage Limit Reached: When your mailbox exceeds its storage limit, new emails are automatically rejected.
Spam or Filter Rules: Overly strict filters or incorrect spam settings might send legitimate emails to the Junk or Trash folder.
Browser Cache or App Glitches: Cached data and outdated email apps can disrupt syncing or message retrieval.
Blocked Senders or Blacklisted IPs: Accidentally blocking a sender or being on a spam blacklist may prevent messages from reaching your inbox.
Security or Account Lock Issues: Suspicious login attempts or password errors can cause temporary account restrictions.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix SBCGlobal Email Not Receiving Emails

Let’s go through a series of troubleshooting steps to help you restore your email flow. You can perform these solutions on both desktop and mobile platforms.

1. Check SBCGlobal Email Server Status

Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your end.
Go to Downdetector or AT&T’s official website to see if SBCGlobal or AT&T Mail is down.
If there’s an outage, you’ll need to wait until the service is restored.

2. Verify Your Internet Connection

Ensure your device has a stable and fast internet connection. Poor connectivity can stop your email client from syncing or fetching new messages.

3. Update Incoming and Outgoing Mail Server Settings

Outdated or incorrect settings are the most common reason SBCGlobal email stops receiving messages. Here are the correct configurations:

Incoming Mail (IMAP) Server:

Server: imap.mail.att.net
Port: 993
Encryption: SSL
Username: Your full SBCGlobal email address
Password: Your email password

Outgoing Mail (SMTP) Server:

Server: smtp.mail.att.net
Port: 465 or 587
Encryption: SSL/TLS
Requires Authentication: Yes

If you’re using POP3, use:

Incoming server: inbound.att.net, Port 995 (SSL required)
Outgoing server: outbound.att.net, Port 465 (SSL required)

Double-check these settings in your email client (Outlook, Apple Mail, Thunderbird, etc.) to make sure they match.

4. Review Spam and Junk Folder

Sometimes, legitimate emails end up in the Spam or Junk folder. Open these folders and mark any wrongly filtered emails as “Not Spam.”
Also, check your Filters and Blocked Addresses under email settings to ensure no important addresses are being redirected or blocked.

5. Clear Browser Cache or Update Your App

If you access SBCGlobal email through a browser:

Clear your cache, cookies, and browsing history.
Try opening email in incognito/private mode to rule out extensions or ad blockers causing problems.

If you use the Yahoo Mail App or Outlook, ensure the app is updated to the latest version. Outdated apps may not sync with the latest server configurations.

6. Check Mailbox Storage Limit

SBCGlobal email accounts have a maximum storage quota.
Delete unnecessary emails from your inbox, sent, and trash folders.
After clearing space, refresh your inbox or restart your email client — new emails should start appearing.

7. Reset or Re-Add Your SBCGlobal Account

If none of the above methods work, try removing your SBCGlobal account from your email client and re-adding it with the correct settings.
This refreshes the connection and often resolves syncing or server timeout issues.

8. Reset Your Password

If you suspect your account might have been compromised or temporarily locked, resetting your password is a smart step.

Visit the AT&T Password Reset page.
Follow the on-screen steps to verify your identity.
Set a strong, unique password and re-login to your email account.

9. Disable Security Software Temporarily

Firewall or antivirus software can sometimes block email servers.
Temporarily disable them (only if you’re confident about your network security) and check if you start receiving emails again.

10. Contact SBCGlobal Email Support

If you’ve followed all the steps and your SBCGlobal email is still not receiving messages, the issue might be server-side or linked to account configuration.
In that case, it’s best to contact SBCGlobal email support for expert help.

You can reach certified technicians.

They can assist with:

Account recovery and login errors
Server synchronization issues
Email migration or backup
Advanced spam and security settings

Having professional help ensures your account is restored quickly without losing any important messages or data.

Tips to Prevent Future SBCGlobal Email Problems

Update Passwords Regularly: Keep your email account secure and avoid login lockouts.
Use a Reliable Email App: Apps like Outlook or Apple Mail handle IMAP connections more efficiently.
Backup Emails Periodically: Regular backups protect your messages from unexpected sync failures.
Keep Storage Under Control: Delete old attachments and large files frequently.
Monitor Account Activity: Check for unusual login attempts from unknown locations.

Final Thoughts

Facing issues like SBCGlobal email not receiving emails can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your email for important communications. However, most problems can be resolved by verifying server settings, clearing browser cache, managing storage, or resetting passwords.

If you continue to face challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out to expert SBCGlobal email support for personalized assistance. A few minutes of professional troubleshooting can save hours of frustration and get your SBCGlobalemail running smoothly again.