Media

A broadcaster has rolled out a new on-screen graphic it says will restore “balance” to televised discussion by showing viewers where the centre really is. The graphic, branded the Fairness Compass, appears as a clean dial with the word “Middle” printed in reassuring font. Within seconds of launch, it became clear the dial has a strong preference for whoever is loudest. Producers described the tool as a public service. … Broadcaster Debuts ‘Fairness Compass’ That Automatically Centres Whoever Is LoudestRead more

A broadcaster has rolled out a new on-screen graphic it says will restore “balance” to televised discussion by showing viewers where the centre really is. The graphic, branded the Balance Dial, appears as a clean dial with the word “Middle” printed in reassuring font. Within seconds of launch, it became clear the dial has a strong preference for whoever is loudest. Producers described the tool as a public service. … Broadcaster Debuts ‘Balance Dial’ That Automatically Centres Whoever Is LoudestRead more

A broadcaster has introduced a new on-screen graphic it claims will restore “balance” to televised debate by dynamically repositioning the conversation to the centre. In practice, the Balanced Coverage Graphic behaves less like a neutral compass and more like a shopping trolley with a wobbly wheel, veering sharply toward whichever guest is currently speaking the loudest. The tool appears as a clean, modern dial labelled “The Middle,” flanked by … Broadcaster Debuts ‘Balanced Coverage’ Graphic That Automatically Centres The Loudest VoiceRead more

A new 24-hour weather channel has announced a bold shift in forecasting: from temperatures and rainfall to a continuous “Mood Map” showing what the country feels like it deserves. Presenters said the change reflects growing audience demand for forecasts that confirm existing emotions. “People don’t want to hear about pressure systems,” the channel’s editor explained. “They want to know whether today’s drizzle is a personal insult or a sign … Weather Channel Replaces Forecast With ‘Mood Map’ Showing Where The Country Feels Personally TargetedRead more

A new app has launched in the UK promising to “restore standards” by turning complaining into a competitive sport, complete with leaderboards, badges, and a daily streak for staying vaguely furious. The app, which awards “Patriot Points”, says it exists to recognise the vital work of people who can identify a national decline in any situation, including a slightly damp sandwich. Users earn points by posting short complaints delivered … New App Awards ‘Patriot Points’ For Complaining Loudly Enough That The Algorithm Mistakes It For LeadershipRead more

A new current-affairs programme has announced a “balanced panel” format designed to end complaints about bias by ensuring every viewpoint is represented by the same person, several times, with minor cosmetic adjustments. Producers said the panel would feature “a range of voices” including a guest in thin glasses, the same guest in thick glasses, the same guest holding a notebook, and the same guest looking thoughtfully at the middle … Channel Debuts ‘Balanced Panel’ Where Every Guest Is The Same Person In Different GlassesRead more

A new weather segment promises to ditch ‘elitist’ meteorology in favour of vibes, hunches, and whatever a bloke in a studio jacket reckons is coming.