Hollywood techies, rejoice, because Tech Decoded has just announced another initiative to connect tech MWEs to one another. It sends the world’s largest technology news directly to its subscribers’ inboxes. We’ll be introducing this weekly newsletter each Monday. We hope it will help readers stay abreast of big changes coming to the tech industry.
Liv McMahon is an experienced technology, environment, and transportation reporter. She heads up the project’s work to track and report on important changes in the fast-paced world of technology. We want this newsletter to be a helpful resource for you — whether you’re looking for simple, straightforward breakdowns of what’s happening with new technology and innovation.
This is borne out by recent survey data, which shows that consumer attitudes toward connected services have drastically changed. In 2024, a striking 86% of respondents said they would be willing to pay for such services. By 2025, that number was down to 68%, illustrating a waning reluctance from consumers toward subscription-based technology services.
This dramatic drop further calls into question the market viability of these types of services. A Volkswagen spokesperson commented on consumer preferences, stating, “Rather than committing from the outset with a higher initial purchase price.” This approach is indicative of a larger trend among consumers who no longer want to be tied down to one decision.
Additionally, the spokesperson noted that “Historically many petrol and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency.” After all, consumer choice is the basis of the auto industry. More importantly, it has the potential to inform smart decisions about connected services in the years to come.
Tech Decoded is ramping up to produce its first edition. With each smart post, it sets out to deeply inform its subscribers—not only crucial industry news, but smart interpretations that illuminate where consumer behavior is headed. By addressing these themes, the newsletter aspires to build a knowledgeable community eager to explore the implications of emerging technologies.