Ever feel like technology, which was supposed to make life easier, is now just piling on the stress? You’re not alone. A recent post on X by George_harrap hit the nail on the head, suggesting we might be reaching a point of "tech fatigue" in 2025. The idea? The constant menus, logins, and internet-connected everything—from the rectangle in your pocket to the checkout counter—are making life feel less enjoyable rather than more convenient. Let’s dive into this trend, what it means, and how it ties into the growing buzzword "enshittification."

What Is Tech Fatigue, Anyway?

Tech fatigue is that overwhelming feeling when digital tools start to feel more like a burden than a boon. Think about it: your phone pings with notifications, your smart TV asks for yet another update, and even buying a coffee now involves scanning a QR code and signing into an app. According to Deloitte’s research, screen time has jumped 60-80% since before the pandemic, with 38% of people struggling to keep it in check. For younger folks aged 18-40, that number climbs to 53%. The result? Eye strain, poor sleep, and a nagging sense that technology isn’t serving us anymore—it’s controlling us.

This isn’t just about screens, though. George points out how the "enshitifcation" (yes, that’s a real term now!) is creeping into every corner of life. Originally coined by author Cory Doctorow, enshittification describes how online platforms start off great, attract users, then slowly degrade as companies prioritize profits over quality. Take Google Search as an example—it went from delivering spot-on results to being flooded with ads and SEO spam. Sound familiar?

From Smartphones to Store Checkouts

It all began with that trusty rectangle in our pockets. Smartphones promised connection and efficiency, but now they’re a gateway to endless logins and app updates. As Sam replied to George’s post, even physical stores are jumping on the bandwagon. Ever tried buying something in-person only to be asked for your email, phone number, and loyalty program sign-up? It’s like the real world has turned into a digital obstacle course.

This shift ties into what Retail Customer Experience calls the "omnichannel landscape." Convenience stores are adding frictionless payments and mobile apps to stay competitive, but it’s also piling compliance and data management burdens onto businesses—and frustration onto us. The South Dakota v. Wayfair ruling in 2018 even forced stores to track sales tax across state lines, making every transaction a tech-heavy affair.

The Meme Coin Connection

Now, you might wonder what this has to do with meme tokens or blockchain, which we cover a lot here at Meme Insider. Well, the crypto world isn’t immune! Many blockchain projects start with big promises—decentralization, user empowerment—but as they grow, some slide into enshittification. Think of platforms adding fees or complex logins that deter new users. For blockchain practitioners, staying ahead means spotting these trends early and building solutions that keep the user experience simple and transparent.

What Can We Do About It?

So, are we doomed to a world of tech fatigue? Not necessarily. The good news is that awareness is growing. Companies are starting to roll out features to help us manage screen time, like app timers and digital wellness tools. As users, we can push back by supporting businesses that keep things straightforward—maybe skip that app-heavy store for a local spot that still takes cash. And for those in the blockchain space, designing meme tokens with user-friendly interfaces could be a game-changer.

George’s post is a wake-up call. As we roll into late July 2025, it’s clear the digital age is at a crossroads. Will we let enshittification win, or can we steer tech back to serving us? Drop your thoughts in the comments—have you felt this fatigue too? Let’s keep the conversation going!