The internet has become increasingly closed, with users clicking fewer websites and opening more apps. Is this a result of the rise of artificial intelligence (AI)? The author argues that AI is threatening the internet's openness and offers six reasons why: ad revenue is a key factor in keeping the internet free; independent websites are being squeezed out by social media and search engines; social media platforms are prioritizing platform-centric experiences over web-based ones; content is being censored and disguised as errors; the rise of AI-generated content is a threat to the internet's openness; and the Chinese government's censorship is exacerbating the problem.
The author notes that ad revenue is a key factor in keeping the internet free, but that ad-driven models are stressful and make users irritable. They argue that while some social media platforms are trying to resist commercial pressures, they are ultimately doomed to fail.
The author also notes that social media platforms are prioritizing platform-centric experiences over web-based ones, with many platforms forcing users to download apps and abandon their web browsers. This has led to a decrease in the diversity of online content and experiences.
The author also highlights the problem of content censorship, noting that under the guise of maximizing engagement and ad revenue, platforms are sacrificing their original mission of delivering content to users. This has led to a proliferation of misinformation and tribalism.
Finally, the author argues that the Chinese government's censorship is a major contributor to the problem, with platforms being forced to censor content to avoid punishment. They argue that this has led to a degradation of the internet's openness and a reduction in diversity.
The author concludes by arguing that there is no clear solution to this problem, but that a more openness and accountability are necessary for addressing the current issues facing the internet.