Streaming Services Are About to Get a Volume Smackdown (And Parents Everywhere Are Cheering)

Photo by Michelle Auger on Unsplash
Tech giants might be in for a rude awakening as California prepares to drop the hammer on those ear-splitting streaming ads. Senator Tom Umberg is leading the charge with a bill that could finally silence the commercial chaos disrupting our binge-watching zen.
Imagine this: you’re deep into your favorite show, completely immersed in the storyline, when suddenly a car commercial blasts through your speakers at nuclear volume levels. Nightmare, right? Well, not for long. Senate Bill 576 aims to regulate streaming service ad volumes, making them comply with the same standards traditional TV already follows.
The Origin Story
This legislative adventure started with the most relatable reason possible - a sleeping baby. Umberg’s legislative director experienced the ultimate parental frustration when a loud ad rudely awakened his infant daughter. Talk about inspiration striking at the most unexpected moment.
Industry Pushback
Of course, the entertainment industry isn’t thrilled. The Motion Picture Association argues that streaming ads work differently and implementing volume controls would be technically challenging. But Umberg isn’t buying their excuses, calling out their technological capabilities with some serious sass.
What This Means For You
If this bill passes, streaming services in California will need to keep their ad volumes at a reasonable level. No more jumping for the remote every time a commercial hits. Your ears (and your sleeping babies) will thank you.
AUTHOR: tgc
SOURCE: CalMatters