Your Smartphone Is a Parasite, According to Evolution

Smartphones, once trusted companions, now often feel like parasitic relationships, with apps prioritizing creators' interests over users'. Evolutionary biologist Rachael Brown and philosopher Rob Brooks argue this shift—from mutualism to parasitism—is intentional, driven by tech companies exploiting user behavior for profit. To reverse this cycle, they call for stricter regulations on app features and data collection to foster a healthier dynamic between users and technology.