streaming algorithms

Music and film fans are increasingly buying CDs, DVDs and vinyl records to escape the algorithms that shape streaming services. The Guardian reports that collectors value physical media for offering full control over what they watch and listen to, without recommendations, rotating catalogues or subscription dependence. The trend reflects growing frustration with curated feeds and disappearing titles, as listeners and viewers seek ownership and a more deliberate relationship with their media libraries.

Music and film fans are increasingly going back to physical media such as CDs, DVDs and vinyl, according to a Guardian feature. Collectors describe the shift as a way to protect data, support artists directly and keep control over their own choices, summarised in the phrase 'if you can't hold it, you don't own it'. The trend reflects frustration with streaming platforms, algorithms and content that can quietly disappear from digital catalogues.

Media fans are explaining why they are going back to physical formats like CDs, DVDs and vinyl, arguing that streaming services leave them without true ownership of music, films and data. Reasons cited include protecting access to purchased content, directly supporting artists, and avoiding recommendation algorithms that shape what people watch and hear. The phrase 'if you can't hold it, you don't own it' captures a growing concern that digital libraries can shrink or disappear when platforms change terms or remove titles.

Music and film collectors are buying physical media again, arguing that 'if you can't hold it, you don't own it'. The Guardian reports growing frustration with streaming platforms, where catalogues shift by licence and recommendation algorithms decide what people hear or watch. Vinyl records, CDs and DVDs are being promoted as a way to truly own media and escape curated feeds.