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8 Powerful Findings From Its Meteoric Rise

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8 Powerful Findings From Its Meteoric Rise

Welcome to my blog on ChatGPT growth!

Imagine unlocking the secret to exponential growth for your business, reaching millions of users in record time, and scaling your platform beyond your wildest dreams. 

What if I told you that ChatGPT, a seemingly unassuming chatbot, achieved all this and more? 

In this blog, we’ll dissect the meteoric rise of ChatGPT, uncovering the strategies that propelled it to the forefront of the AI world. 

1. Break Boundaries by Embracing the Familiar (with a Twist)

Innovation is often seen as the key to growth, but what happens when technology takes the world by storm, despite not being completely new? 

Enter ChatGPT, a chatbot that began as a modest tool for providing straightforward information. Since its birth, it transformed into a highly advanced product capable of answering intricate questions and offering personalized suggestions.

Interestingly, Yann LeCun, Meta’s AI Chief, took to Twitter to emphasize that ChatGPT isn’t as groundbreaking as the public and media perceive it to be. 

He tweeted, “To be clear: I’m not criticizing OpenAI’s work nor their claims. I’m trying to correct a perception by the public & the media who see chatGPT as this incredibly new, innovative, & unique technological breakthrough that is far ahead of everyone else. It’s just not.”

The creators initially presented ChatGPT as a mere “sneak peek” into their research, aiming to refine it through valuable public feedback. But, little did they know, it would soon become a sensation.

So, what’s the catch? And how did a two-year-old technology captivate the world?

For the first time, a highly capable linguistic superbrain is available to the general public through a free, easy-to-use web interface. This level of power in the hands of everyday users has never been experienced before.

Meanwhile, ChatGPT’s creators are still trying to decode its widespread appeal.

“We’re eager to unravel the mystery behind its success. But, honestly, it’s something we can’t quite comprehend yet,” confesses Liam Fedus, an OpenAI scientist who contributed to ChatGPT’s development.

The key takeaway here is that even though the technology itself may not be entirely novel, ChatGPT has brought a disruptive advancement to the table.

By democratizing access to AI, it’s managed to capture the attention of millions. The future is here, folks!

2. The Power of Iterative Growth

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ChatGPT’s journey to becoming a game-changing AI tool can be traced back to its creators’ unwavering dedication to iterative growth, embracing imperfection, and valuing user feedback.

ChatGPT’s Timeline

Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, highlighting the key releases that shaped ChatGPT’s evolution:

  • 2018: GPT-1 burst onto the scene, wowing users with its ability to generate human-like text and handle a range of tasks, from translation to summarization.
  • June 2019: GPT-2 upped the ante, boasting a larger dataset, more parameters, and improved coherence, paving the way for diverse applications.
  • June 2020: GPT-3 took language understanding to new heights, introducing multi-modal capabilities and laying the foundation for innovative tools like DALL-E-2 and ChatGPT.
  • January 2021: DALL-E-2 transformed image generation, breathing life into captivating, imaginative visuals from mere text descriptions.
  • November 2022: ChatGPT, a conversational AI built on GPT-3, remembered past interactions and made GPT -3’s power accessible to a wider audience.
  • March 2023: Open AI releases ChatGPT API, which allows developers to integrate the tech into their apps.
  • March 2023: GPT-4 shatters expectations, leveraging a colossal dataset and delivering unprecedented capabilities.

Open AI Embraces Imperfection

This growth mindset allowed ChatGPT to rapidly adapt to user needs, ensuring a dynamic, ever-evolving platform. In addition, OpenAI kept users engaged and excited about new possibilities by continuously seeking user feedback and rolling out updates.

OpenAI’s blog emphasizes the importance of user feedback in driving innovation, stating, “We know that many limitations remain [with ChatGPT], and we plan to make regular model updates… But we also hope that by providing an accessible interface to ChatGPT, we will get valuable user feedback.”

Moreover, this iterative approach enabled swift experimentation, allowing OpenAI to discover what resonated with users without investing excessive time and resources. 

As a testament to this strategy, millions of people have provided feedback, leading to several important updates.

In addition, users have found value across various professional use cases, such as:

  • Drafting and editing content
  • Brainstorming ideas
  • Programming help
  • And learning new topics.

ChatGPT’s triumph reflects OpenAI’s boldness to launch products before perfection.

Open AI researcher John Schulman reinforces this idea:

“You can’t wait until your system is perfect to release it… the beta testers had positive impressions of the product.”

Ultimately, by embracing imperfection and focusing on delivering value, OpenAI has continuously refined and enhanced ChatGPT, turning it into the powerhouse tool it is today.

3. Build a Versatile and Adaptable Idea

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The success of ChatGPT is rooted in its incredible versatility.

It’s a cinch to use. It’s downright captivating in its ability to rapidly whip up human-like text, whether you’re craving recipes, workout plans, or—here’s the kicker—computer code. (Read more about the cool and creative uses of ChatGPT.)

One way ChatGPT demonstrates versatility is by acting as a personal assistant. It’s like a reliable friend who organizes emails, sets reminders, and drafts responses on their behalf.

With ChatGPT as their AI sidekick, users can breathe a sigh of relief and focus on more pressing tasks. (Read more about ChatGPT for productivity and efficiency.)

In the realm of healthcare, ChatGPT’s versatility opens up exciting possibilities. Bill Gates underscored how AI will revolutionize the medical field by processing complex data and accelerating drug development.

ChatGPT has the potential to become an invaluable tool that enhances doctor-patient communication and even offers personalized health advice. The implications are truly remarkable. 

And get this:

Surprisingly, ChatGPT reportedly outperforms human doctors in empathy and quality of medical advice, according to a recent study.

ChatGPT’s versatility also extends to education, where it can be a transformative force. Picture a world where every student can access their own AI tutor, providing customized lessons and real-time feedback. 

Say goodbye to the era of elite tutoring monopolies! With the assistance of ChatGPT, education can become more democratized for learners across the globe.

4. Prioritize User Friendliness and Accessibility

ChatGPT Growth - user friendly interface screenshot

A key ingredient in ChatGPT’s recipe for success lies in its remarkably user-friendly interface.

The platform’s design ensures that even users new to chatbots or artificial intelligence technology can easily find their way around. This welcoming simplicity has been a major draw for users from all walks of life.

As OpenAI scientist Liam Fedus explains, the addition of conversational data truly set ChatGPT apart:

“The ChatGPT model is fine-tuned from the same language model as InstructGPT, and we used a similar methodology for fine-tuning it. We added some conversational data and tuned the training process a bit. So we didn’t want to oversell it as a big fundamental advance. As it turned out, the conversational data had a big positive impact on ChatGPT.”

This subtle yet significant change transformed ChatGPT from a mere AI chatbot into a virtual companion on which users could rely for accurate and personalized information.

ChatGPT’s personable nature and the AI’s clear and concise responses provide an immersive experience. It’s as if users are having a genuine conversation with a knowledgeable friend rather than interacting with an AI.

John Schulman, a researcher at OpenAI, highlights the importance of accessibility and usability, saying, “The raw technical capabilities, as assessed by standard benchmarks, don’t actually differ substantially between the models, but ChatGPT is more accessible and usable.”

Moreover, ChatGPT’s design philosophy prioritizes functionality over flashy aesthetics. The website sports a clean, minimalistic look, which keeps users focused on the task at hand: their interactions with the chatbot.

5. Identify and Fill Underserved Needs

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But what truly sets ChatGPT apart is its ability to add value where search engines fall short.

Unlike search engines, which rely on users to input specific keywords or phrases, ChatGPT engages users in a dynamic conversation that allows for personalized exploration of topics. 

This interactive approach saves time by eliminating the need to sift through numerous websites and provides users with a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter (as long as the information is accurate).

Additionally, ChatGPT has a remarkable capacity for contextual understanding, which enables it to recognize nuances in users’ questions and tailor responses accordingly.

Another distinctive feature of ChatGPT is its ability to synthesize information from various sources. This offers users a well-rounded perspective on any given topic.

This is a stark contrast to search engines, which often serve up information based on popularity or keyword optimization, potentially leaving out valuable insights.

6. Balance Free Access with Enticing Premium Features

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Unlocking rapid user base expansion is challenging, but ChatGPT managed to crack the code by blending free access with enticing premium features. 

Their strategic combination of accessibility and value-added offerings was crucial in achieving 100 million users in just two months.

Just think: It took the viral sensation TikTok 9 months, Instagram 2 years, and Google and Facebook 5 years to hit the same mark.

Picture the excitement as ChatGPT hits the market, offering users free access to its groundbreaking AI capabilities. 

This opportunity to experience cutting-edge technology without commitment lures users from all walks of life. But the thrill doesn’t end there – for those who crave even more from their AI chatbot experience, ChatGPT’s premium offerings hold the key.

With lightning-fast response times, priority access to new features and improvements, and uninterrupted functionality during peak hours, upgrading your account becomes attractive. 

As a premium user myself, I can speak directly to this. I was drawn to the allure of GPT-4’s impressive capabilities and the opportunity to skirt outages during high-demand periods. So the decision to upgrade was a no-brainer.

This expert fusion of free access and premium benefits creates the ultimate growth hacking recipe.

So, how does ChatGPT strike this delicate balance? By ensuring that the free version offers enough value to retain user interest while still providing a clear incentive to upgrade.

7. Leverage API Integration for Scalability

ChatGPT Growth - ai generated futuristic image of a city

The release of the ChatGPT API is set to propel the platform to massive adoption. 

As we delve into the mechanics of this growth and reveal the far-reaching consequences for developers, businesses, and users, we’ll uncover lessons for any platform looking to scale up. 

The first key aspect is wider integration. Picture developers weaving the AI-powered chatbot into an array of applications, tools, and platforms. As ChatGPT’s reach expands, it will create ripples of impact across numerous industries.

Customization is another vital ingredient. The API enables developers to mold the ChatGPT experience to meet their specific needs, making the platform even more attractive. This tailored approach reels new users and sparks innovative use cases that we might not have imagined before.

As the saying goes, “Two heads are better than one.” The ChatGPT API embraces this by promoting collaboration. By connecting developers with the OpenAI community, we see a meeting of minds that elevates the technology to new heights.

New business opportunities are also unlocked as developers integrate the ChatGPT API into their products and services. As this happens, organizations will begin to recognize the potential for increased efficiency, cost savings, and improved customer experiences, igniting a surge in growth.

Lastly, there’s the feedback loop. With the API’s widespread use, OpenAI will harvest valuable insights from the community, allowing the platform to evolve based on real-world needs. It’s like a virtuous cycle of growth fueled by the collective wisdom of its users.

8. Uphold Privacy and Security Standards

ChatGPT Growth - ai generated image of a fingerprint in the shape of an eye

In today’s digital landscape, privacy and security are the building blocks of a platform’s success. Without them, regulatory hurdles and diminishing user trust can hamstring growth.

GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) is a prime example of holding companies accountable for handling user data.

Consider the cautionary tale of Facebook. The social media giant weathered storm after storm of privacy scandals. These privacy slip-ups have hit the brakes on user growth, eroded trust, and thrown a wrench in their expansion plans.

At its core, ChatGPT is designed to generate human-like text based on the input. However, this capability also raises questions about how user data is handled, stored, and protected. 

Concerns Over Privacy in Italy

We’re already seeing privacy speedbumps for ChatGPT.

The Italian Data Protection Authority (DPA) expressed concerns over ChatGPT’s compliance with GDPR, particularly regarding the potential misuse of personal data.

Italian authorities feared that ChatGPT’s AI capabilities might inadvertently expose sensitive user information, so they banned ChatGPT.

In response to these concerns, OpenAI addressed the Italian DPA’s apprehensions:

  • OpenAI now offers a tool to verify users’ ages in Italy
  • They commit to providing greater visibility of privacy policy
  • Open AI now offers EU users a new form to object to the use of personal data

Italy lifted the ban after OpenAI worked with the DPA to ensure compliance with data protection regulations

As ChatGPT expands, OpenAI must remain proactive in addressing privacy concerns, ensuring that users feel secure while enjoying the benefits of this cutting-edge AI tool.

ChatGPT Growth – Final Thoughts

Now that you’re armed with these powerful insights, the challenge is clear: How will you apply these principles to your own ventures, and what heights will you achieve? The future is yours to shape.



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AFFILIATE MARKETING

John Thornhills Ambassador Program Review: Unleashing Digital Prosperity

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In the realm of online marketing, the pursuit of high-ticket commissions has become a focal point for many aspiring entrepreneurs. Among the various programs available, the John Thornhills Ambassador Program stands out as a proven system that offers a pathway to substantial earnings. This comprehensive review will delve into the core components, benefits, and earning potential of Thornhill’s program. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of how this program can empower you to achieve digital prosperity.

Understanding the John Thornhills Ambassador Program

Designed by the seasoned digital product expert himself, John Thornhill’s Ambassador Program presents a unique opportunity to generate significant commissions. This high-end affiliate marketing initiative revolves around promoting Thornhill’s flagship programs, providing participants with the chance to earn up to $3,493 per high-ticket sale. Notably, the program also offers a 50% profit share from the sales generated by referrals, creating a two-pronged income source.

John Thornhills Ambassador Program Affiliate (credit: PR)
John Thornhills Ambassador Program Affiliate (credit: PR)

Click here and start earning your commissions without doing any selling >

Core Components of the Program

To fully comprehend the Ambassador Program, let’s dissect its three core components:

  1. High-Ticket Webinar Funnel: As an Ambassador, you gain access to a personalized high-ticket webinar funnel, allowing you to effectively promote Thornhill’s flagship programs.

  2. 50/50 Profit Share: Any sales generated by your referrals entitle you to a 50% profit share, further augmenting your income potential.

  3. Email List Building: Building and leveraging your email list, which you solely own, is a fundamental skill that you will acquire through this program. This skill will result in consistent monthly revenue.

Click here and start earning your commissions without doing any selling >

Benefits of the John Thornhills Ambassador Program

The Ambassador Program offers several distinct advantages that set it apart from other online marketing programs:

  1. Earning Potential: With the Ambassador Program, your earning potential is substantial. Not only do you receive significant commissions from high-ticket sales, but you also benefit from the sales generated by your referrals, creating a dual revenue stream.

  2. Second-Tier Profits: The program provides an opportunity to earn second-tier profits through the success of your recruited ambassadors. This mutually beneficial arrangement enhances your overall income potential.

  3. Email List Building: Effective email list building is a critical aspect of online business. The Ambassador Program equips you with the skills to build and monetize your list effectively, ensuring consistent monthly revenue.

  4. Fast-Mover Bonuses: As a testament to Thornhill’s confidence in his program, he offers Fast-Mover Bonuses to those who take swift action. These bonuses typically include additional resources and tools that can jumpstart your affiliate marketing efforts.

  5. The Guarantee: Thornhill’s commitment to the success of his program is evident through his guarantee. If you don’t earn at least $2,000 within your first 60 days, he pledges to work with you until you do.

Success Stories

Numerous success stories from beginners to seasoned marketers exemplify the program’s effectiveness. These stories serve as a testament to the potential that the Ambassador Program unlocks, showcasing the real opportunities it offers. The program has empowered individuals to achieve their financial goals and build thriving online businesses.

Joining the John Thornhills Ambassador Program

Joining the Ambassador Program is a straightforward process. Once you sign up, you gain access to all essential resources, including the high-ticket webinar funnel, promotional materials, and comprehensive training modules. This all-inclusive package provides you with everything you need to start earning high-ticket commissions.

Click here and start earning your commissions without doing any selling >

A Deeper Look into The Ambassador Program

To truly maximize the benefits of the Ambassador Program, it is important to delve into its various aspects:

The Training

The program’s comprehensive training serves as the cornerstone of your success. It guides you through every step, from setting up your webinar funnel to driving traffic to your site, ensuring that you have the knowledge and tools necessary for success.

The Commission Model

The Ambassador Program employs a unique two-tiered commission model that allows you to earn from both your sales and the sales made by your recruited affiliates. This model enhances your income potential and provides additional revenue streams.

The Benefits of High-Ticket Commissions

Focusing on high-ticket items has the power to transform your income potential. Selling high-ticket items translates to higher commissions per sale, potentially catapulting your income to new heights.

 John Thornhills Ambassador Program Commission (credit: PR)
John Thornhills Ambassador Program Commission (credit: PR)

Click here and start earning your commissions without doing any selling >

Making the Most of The Ambassador Program

To truly capitalize on the Ambassador Program, you must take action and implement what you learn. While Thornhill provides the tools, resources, and knowledge, it is your commitment to applying them that will drive your success. The program offers several strategies to help you make the most of your journey:

Networking and Collaborations

The Ambassador Program is not solely about selling; it also emphasizes building valuable relationships. Networking with fellow ambassadors can lead to collaborations, idea sharing, and more commission opportunities. By fostering connections and engaging with the community, you open doors to new possibilities.

Continual Learning

In the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape, continuous learning is essential. The Ambassador Program provides consistent support and updates, ensuring that you stay ahead of the curve. By staying informed about industry trends and implementing new strategies, you can maintain a competitive edge.

The Power of Thornhill’s Proven Funnels

Leveraging Thornhill’s proven funnels is a game-changer. When you join the Ambassador Program, you gain access to his tried-and-tested strategies that have generated millions in sales. By utilizing these proven funnels, you eliminate the guesswork from your marketing efforts and increase your chances of success.

Click here and start earning your commissions without doing any selling >

Top 10 John Thornhill’s Ambassador Program FAQs:

1. What is the John Thornhill Ambassador Program?

The John Thornhill Ambassador Program is a program designed to help individuals build a profitable online business leveraging John Thornhill’s affiliate marketing resources and strategies.

2. Who is John Thornhill?

John Thornhill is an entrepreneur and online marketer known for his expertise in affiliate marketing and digital product creation. He has built a successful online empire and aims to empower others through his programs and courses.

3. What are the benefits of joining the program?

The program offers several benefits, including:

  • Access to John Thornhill’s proven affiliate marketing strategies and resources.
  • Done-for-you marketing materials and sales funnels.
  • Community support and mentorship from experienced online entrepreneurs.
  • Free training and resources on various online marketing topics.
  • Lifetime commissions on sales generated through your affiliate link.

4. Do I need any prior experience to join?

No, the program is designed for individuals of all experience levels, even those with no prior knowledge of online marketing.

5. How much time do I need to commit to the program?

The amount of time you need to commit will depend on your individual goals and desired level of success. However, the program recommends dedicating at least 10-15 hours per week to achieve significant results.

6. What are the payment options available?

The John Thornhill Ambassador Program offers three main payment options:

  • One-Time Payment: Pay the full program fee upfront through a secure online payment system for immediate access to the program’s resources. This option offers significant savings compared to monthly plans.
  • Flexible Payment Plans: Spread the cost over several months with convenient monthly installments. The program offers various plans with different durations and pricing. Choose the one that best fits your budget and financial situation.
  • Financing Options: Partner with third-party financing providers to extend your payment term and manage your cash flow. This option allows you to access the program and start generating income while making manageable monthly payments.

7. Is there a guarantee?

There is no money-back guarantee offered by the program. However, they offer a 30-day refund policy in case you are not satisfied with the program content.

8. What makes this program different from others?

The program emphasizes John Thornhill’s proven affiliate marketing strategies and provides access to his done-for-you marketing materials, which are designed to save participants time and effort. Additionally, the program offers personalized mentorship and support from experienced online entrepreneurs.

9. Who should consider joining this program?

This program is ideal for individuals who:

  • Want to learn proven affiliate marketing strategies from a successful entrepreneur.
  • Are looking for a step-by-step system to build a profitable online business.
  • Appreciate done-for-you marketing materials and resources.
  • Desire community support and mentorship.
  • Aim to earn lifetime commissions through affiliate marketing.

10. Where can I learn more about the program?

You can learn more about the John Thornhill Ambassador Program by visiting their website. They also offer free training sessions and webinars that provide further details about the program and its benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, John Thornhill’s Ambassador Program offers a comprehensive and proven model for earning high commissions online. With its focus on high-ticket products, a two-tiered commission structure, and proven funnels, it presents a compelling opportunity for anyone seeking substantial online income. Success in the program requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to apply what you learn. By leveraging the training, support, and mentorship provided, you can embark on a journey towards achieving digital prosperity.



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AFFILIATE MARKETING

Revolutionising affiliate marketing in the era of influencers, ET BrandEquity

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Revolutionising affiliate marketing in the era of influencers, ET BrandEquity

Affiliate marketing spends in India are estimated to be Rs 2500 crore in FY 2023, constituting eight percent of the overall digital marketing spend, according to the State of Digital Marketing in India report. Despite the popularity of affiliate marketing, the model presents its own challenges, such as onboarding and managing affiliates, high commission fees, and vulnerability to fraudulent and malicious practices.

During a discussion at DigiPlus Fest 2023, marketers explored the evolving landscape of affiliate marketing and strategies to optimise return on investment (RoI). The session featured Nishant Jaiswal, VP – marketing, Zupee; Sachin Vashishtha, chief marketing officer, Paisabazaar, and was chaired by Saumya Jain, ETBrandEquity.com.

Essentially, affiliate marketing involves incentivizing affiliates with a commission or payout to drive a business action, such as a click or purchase. The practice began with blogs, websites, and email but has since expanded to include social media and e-commerce platforms.

Vashishtha observed that while affiliate marketing was one of the most profitable and RoI-positive ways for online businesses to grow, it didn’t take long for bad actors to leverage it for fraud. Affiliates with malicious intent began generating traffic for brands using any means necessary to earn a commission.

The practice started losing its appeal until the explosion of the creator economy and the rise of influencers. Additionally, improvements in technology and the emergence of attribution models like multi-touch attribution or view-through attribution started bringing transparency into the affiliate marketing model.

Jaiswal remarked that affiliate marketing in India is still nascent compared to global platforms, where many end publishers are not directly accessible to advertisers. He said, “With technology, many fraud-related concerns like click hijacking, app install hijacking, and click spam can be controlled by your mobile measurement partner (MMP) or attribution partner.”

However, despite technological advancements, brands still run the risk of being visible in an unsafe environment due to the way affiliate marketing models are structured. While advertisers primarily engage with larger affiliate networks, campaigns might be outsourced to smaller publishers, networks, and individuals, making it challenging to map where conversions are coming from. Additionally, smaller publishers or creators may create clickbait content or reach out to irrelevant audiences simply to drive traffic or act with malicious intent, harming the brand’s reputation.

Vashishtha stated, “You can go back to the affiliate network and ban the publisher, but it is still very difficult to work with the ecosystem the way it is now. We prefer to work with large publishers or content creators directly.”

By working directly with publishers or creators, brands can see how content gets created and deployed to generate conversions. Jaiswal suggested that brands could share a high volume of assets with affiliates directly to test their effectiveness and ensure that the brand positioning and messaging remain consistent.

While it is not entirely avoidable to discourage malicious activity, Jaiswal opined that assigning realistic key performance indicators (KPIs) while designing the campaign can automatically rule out any fraud from the equation. He said, “Marketers could leverage a combination of hard KPIs and soft KPIs, where soft KPIs can be click-to-conversion rate, sign-up-to-purchase rate, and hard KPIs could be cost-to-purchase or cost-to-sign-up.”

Affiliate marketing has its fair share of challenges; however, the ecosystem is continuously evolving. With new technologies like AI, affiliate marketing initiatives will become sharper and more targeted.

  • Published On Dec 9, 2023 at 05:03 PM IST

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First, AI came for Sports Illustrated. Soon, it will want to give you sports betting advice

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First, AI came for Sports Illustrated. Soon, it will want to give you sports betting advice

Open this photo in gallery:

Real Sports Bar and Grill in Toronto on Nov. 24, 2016.Glenn Lowson/The Globe and Mail

When Sports Illustrated was outed last week for its alleged use of generative AI to create online articles – and, even worse, for topping them with fake bylines and AI author headshots – readers of the legendary glossy were appalled and disappointed at how the mighty had fallen.

But there was one element of the story that largely got lost amid the outrage, and it hints at an even darker prospect of what lies ahead for sports media and fans.

The SI pieces in question were product reviews: Inoffensive rankings of say, seven brands of volleyballs, which included links to Amazon that a reader could click on if they suddenly felt the urge to take up the sport. So, not only was the editorial copy generated by fake people, it was actually fake editorial copy. It was real advertising.

The practice of peppering editorial content with commercial links – known in the business as affiliate marketing – is a mainstay of Internet advertising, from movie reviews that direct readers to online ticketing sites, to podcasters and TikTok influencers giving out discount codes for listeners or viewers to buy merch from specific retailers.

But affiliate marketing has exploded in recent years in one notorious segment of the industry – sports betting, and its gush of ad dollars that are falling on a desperate media sector like rain on a parched prairie.

Affiliate sites that funnel new customers to online gambling operators are raking in the cash because of a quirk in that segment of the business – and they’re doing it on the backs of those new bettors.

In the spring of 2021, the Canadian sports media startup Playmaker Capital went public on the TSX Venture Exchange and quickly began scooping up digital properties with large followings that the company believed could be converted to bettors. When I interviewed Playmaker’s CEO, Jordan Gnat, shortly after shares began trading, he said he wanted to be in “the fan monetization business.”

There were tens of millions to monetize. The company began by buying soccer-focused sites in Latin America such as Bolavip, which targeted fans in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, Central America and the United States, then expanded into the English-language North American market with the newsletter publisher and aggregator Yardbarker. Here in Canada it bought The Nation Network, which operates the hockey fantasy site, Daily Faceoff, and the Quebec-based La Poche Bleue.

But last month, Playmaker went from the hunter to the hunted when Better Collective, an affiliate-marketing giant based in Denmark that Gnat had cited to me as an inspiration for his company, gobbled it up for about $260-million.

The flurry of activity is partly because affiliate marketers who funnel customers to sportsbooks are an entirely different beast. They’re not just making one-time commissions, as they would if they were helping to sell concert tickets or tennis racquets or fly traps. Instead, they get a percentage of the sportsbook’s net revenue made from any new bettor.

“Net revenue” is another term for “total lifetime losses by a new bettor.”

Forget the pennies that digital ads are infamous for bringing in. If a site converts a reader or listener or viewer into a regular gambler – that is, a regular loser – the payday can be hundreds of dollars or more.

Here’s where it might occur to you that the incentives for a site to give you good betting advice might clash with that same site’s incentive to get you to sign up with a sports book and then lose a lot of money.

You would not be wrong.

In the social-media industry, there’s a saying that if you’re not paying for the product, you are the product. In the world of affiliate marketing, you are the product – the one that’s being sold to the sportsbooks. But boy, are you paying for it.

An academic paper published in January, 2020, in International Gambling Studies titled Affiliate Marketing of Sports Betting – A Cause for Concern? points out that many sites aren’t transparent about their duelling allegiances. It also notes that “people assign greater levels of trust to expert advice during decision-making tasks involving financial risk. This may be a particular concern for those who are just beginning to gamble upon sport, as they may be more inclined to rely on expert advice on bet choice due to their lack of experience.” Newbies may be especially susceptible, given that affiliates position themselves as being on the side of the bettor, when in fact they’re being paid by the sportsbook.

Which brings us full circle back to where we started. Generative AI is notoriously bad at a lot of things, including getting facts straight. But it’s very good at sounding confident, even as it bluffs its way through life.

And it’s about to use its charms to lull you into thinking you can beat the house.

Last May, Lloyd Danzig, the managing partner at the New York-based venture-capital company Sharp Alpha Advisors, noted in a piece for Sports Business Journal that publishers doing affiliate marketing for sportsbooks, “will soon leverage generative AI to instantly create thousands of SEO-optimized articles that discuss the current day’s calendar of games, betting trends, stories to follow, and sportsbook promotions. Pregame previews, postgame summaries, and highlight reels can be created on command without the use of specialized software or manual oversight. Articles, sportsbook reviews, and odds comparison pieces can be generated for any audience, with a fraction of the effort required from human writers.”

Think we’re already swamped with sports betting content? You haven’t seen anything yet.

Après ChatGPT, le déluge.

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