Topic: Parler

Eric Finman, marketed as the world's youngest Bitcoin millionaire, launched the "Freedom Phone" as an alternative to Apple and Google devices. Influencer Candace Owens heavily promoted the device, claiming it features an "uncensorable" app store and a privacy-focused operating system called Freedom OS. Critics argue the device is a rebranded low-end Chinese smartphone and potentially a "honeypot" for data collection targeting conservative users.

Parler's interim CEO, Mark Meckler, discussed the challenges of rebuilding the platform after being de-platformed by Amazon, Apple, and Google. Meckler noted that the "technology stack" had to be rebuilt from the ground up, leading to various glitches and "bumps" in the web and iOS versions. However, he did not clarify what specific concessions were made to Apple to regain entry into the App Store.

The discussion focuses on Jason Calacanis's appearance on CNBC, where he defended the de-platforming of Parler. Calacanis claimed that the move was driven by public safety concerns and employee pressure rather than a coordinated attack on Donald Trump. He described Parler as a "constitutional nightmare" and suggested that the removal of the app provides a "blue wave" exit ramp for big tech companies. The hosts critique Calacanis's history in the tech industry and his stance on private company rights.

The U.S. House of Representatives moved forward with a snap impeachment of Donald Trump following the January 6th Capitol events. Simultaneously, major corporations and banks have begun severing ties with the President, while tech giants like Amazon and Apple removed the social media platform Parler. World leaders have expressed concern over the extent of this corporate de-platforming and its implications for free speech.

Apple CEO Tim Cook appeared on CBS This Morning to discuss the removal of Parler from the App Store, citing the platform's failure to monitor posts inciting violence. Cook emphasized that no one is above the law and that accountability is necessary following the assault on the Capitol. The interview preceded a major non-product announcement from Apple regarding social initiatives.

Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy McCarthy discussed the potential for an antitrust case against Big Tech companies for their coordinated actions against Parler. McCarthy argued that the rapid, simultaneous removal of the platform by Apple, Google, and Amazon suggests collusive activity intended to eliminate a competitor to Twitter.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) terminated hosting for the social media platform Parler, citing concerns over harmful content. This move follows similar actions by Apple and Google to remove the app from their respective stores. The discussion highlights the risks of relying on S3 buckets and centralized DNS services, noting that even the No Agenda show previously received automated warnings from Amazon regarding linked content.

An outreach director from Parler, who is married to a No Agenda knight, offered the hosts verified "gold badge" accounts on the platform. While expressing support for the platform's right to exist, the hosts reiterate their preference for decentralized social media over centralized alternatives. A brief reference is made to the film "Treasure of the Sierra Madre" regarding the "stinking badges" quote.

Amy Peacock, Parler's chief policy advisor, appeared on Tucker Carlson's show to discuss the platform's removal from the Apple and Google app stores. Peacock argued that the companies are engaging in political oppression by holding Parler responsible for user content. The hosts note that many users are unaware they can still access these services via mobile web browsers, bypassing app store restrictions.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) sent a formal notice to Parler suspending its account due to 98 reported examples of posts inciting violence. Amazon claimed Parler lacked an effective moderation process and rejected the platform's plan to use volunteers for content review. The suspension took effect on January 10, 2021, forcing Parler to migrate its data to new infrastructure.

A significant shift in media consumption is occurring as conservatives move away from Fox News toward alternatives like Newsmax. The hosts discuss the potential for a permanent fracturing of the media landscape based on political affiliation.

Appearing on an Epoch Times podcast, Representative Devin Nunes discussed being censored on Twitter and YouTube. He highlighted his success on alternative platforms like Parler and Rumble, where he receives significantly higher engagement without algorithmic suppression.

The hosts promote No Agenda Social, their federated social network based on Mastodon. John Dvorak expresses his dislike for Parler's interface, preferring the "Fediverse" model as a more functional and independent alternative to mainstream social media platforms.

The Atlanta Hawks have offered the State Farm Arena to serve as a massive, socially-distanced voting station for the upcoming election. In tech news, the social media platform Parler is gaining traction as a "secret weapon" for conservatives, with media figures like Dan Bongino reportedly investing in the private company.