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OpenAI expands ChatGPT ads with Sponsored Agents

159 points · 181 comments · vertigoruntime

  1. cmiles8 · · focus · HN ↗
    Who actually wants this?

    I guess we’re about to find out if this helps put out the massive pile of burning cash that OpenAI is trying to deal with, but I know nobody that wants this.

    OpenAI claims we’re near AGI and this is the best strategy they have? Oy vey!

    1. jedberg · · focus · HN ↗
      I'll be a little contrarian here. I've actually purchased things from Instagram ads. Because they were highly targeted and actually something I wanted once I learned it existed. It was a solution to a problem I had but never researched for a solution.

      I'm guessing ChatGPT will be able to do the same for me, especially since it probably knows me better than Instagram at this point, just given all the things I ask it.

      If they do it right, it will be helpful. The big question is will they do it right.

      1. cmiles8 · · focus · HN ↗
        But Instagram ads are just billboards in digital form. The idea of influencing an AI is a whole different ballgame.
        1. amlib · · focus · HN ↗
          It's already been so much worse, they are digital billboards most of the time presented as genuine organic content, like you and me posting in this platform. That alone has already changed the course of history, persuaded people by changing their views and made then more reactionary than ever. Whole elections were decided on this stuff. I can't begin to imagine the manipulative powers manipulative AI chatbot responses will bring.
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