This isn't news. It's a list of discount codes.
Wired published a story headlined "Skullcandy Discount Code: 30% Off" that rounds up promo codes for Skullcandy headphones. The summary references specific deals: Crusher Evo headphones and 36% off Crusher ANC 2 noise-canceling headphones.
But here's what's happening: this is affiliate content. The publication earns a commission when readers use the linked codes. That's not inherently wrong, but calling it "news" stretches the definition.
Real tech journalism might cover Skullcandy releasing new headphones, a pricing change across the company's product line, or a competitor analysis of budget audio gear. Instead, readers got a curated list of codes — the kind of content that fills search results and drives ad revenue.
The broader pattern: publications are increasingly blending affiliate roundups with their news output. Readers looking for product announcements get marketing instead. It's worth noticing when that line blurs.