OpenAI’s ChatGPT has recently undergone an update that has raised concerns among publishers as the chatbot can now access the internet in real-time. While this feature is currently available only to paying users, OpenAI has stated that it will soon expand to all users.
Previously, publishers found solace in the fact that ChatGPT could only access data up until September 2021, which reduced the impact on their traffic. However, with the ability to surf the internet for information, some publishers are reconsidering the weight of this issue.
A publishing executive, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed the urgency of the matter, stating that each new development increases the urgency for publishers. They were uncertain about their next steps in light of ChatGPT’s update.
In a demo video by OpenAI, ChatGPT showcased its ability to provide information on the latest reviews for a commuter bike and even included a link to the source. This attribution of sources to media publications was seen as a positive development by a second publishing executive, who also preferred to remain anonymous. They acknowledged that OpenAI’s update was not surprising, given that the company had been testing web browsing with ChatGPT in beta for months.
However, these publishing executives have not yet witnessed a decline in traffic as a result of AI chatbots. It is still early to gauge the impact of the latest ChatGPT update on traffic. The executives acknowledged that they are actively paying attention to this issue and monitoring the space closely.
The executives also expressed concerns about Google’s testing, particularly its Search Generative Experience demo, which presents AI-generated summaries at the top of search results. If adopted, this feature could significantly reduce online traffic to publisher sites, affecting advertising, subscription, and other revenue streams. The third publishing executive highlighted that Google’s vast user base makes this a more pressing concern.
While the impact of ChatGPT’s update is yet to be fully realized, publishers remain vigilant. The Arena Group, Gannett, and IAC have opted to wait for more data before commenting on the impact on their respective traffic.
Overall, publishers are navigating the evolving landscape of AI chatbots and search experiences cautiously, recognizing the potential implications for their traffic and revenue. The adoption of these new technologies by AI companies like OpenAI and Google will continue to shape the digital publishing industry, prompting publishers to adapt and find ways to maintain their relevance and audience engagement.
In summary, publishers are closely monitoring the impact of ChatGPT’s real-time internet access, although the full effects are yet to be determined. The news industry is bracing for potential changes that may arise due to the rise of AI chatbots and the evolving search experiences offered by tech giants. These developments have the potential to reshape the landscape of online publishing and impact traffic and revenue for publishers worldwide.
