Media is changing... big time

Between Meta’s annual event, the Las Vegas Sphere’s official opening, and generative AI creations going viral — last month revealed a lot about the shift in media we’re about to experience.

Weird. Looks like Kendall Jenner made a second Instagram account…

[Clip from Instagram]

Welcome to the next phase of media which also hints at the next phase of social life and identity.

This is Billie – the AI alter ego of Kendall Jenner who is your local ride or die managed by Meta. Kendall Jenner herself spent a few hours in a studio, to get a couple milli in the bank, and now, her likeness or as Caryn Marjorie put – an extension of her consciousness – will be operated by one of the most profitable companies in the world for two years. 

… talk about selling your soul. 

What else is on Billie’s profile? Influencer-like pictures that have “Imagined with AI” watermarks.

And her Following list?

[Tom Brady]

[Naomi]

[Charli Damelio]

[Dwayne Wade]

[Snoop Dogg]

Aka more AIs utilizing the physical and audible identity of public figures, but taking on different personas. How are we feeling?

Now look, this intro was harsh – but we’ll likely all be opting-in to creating AI versions of ourselves very soon. Meta says the capability will be available early next year for users.

And within constraints, I’m not against that… it’s just this specific use case Meta decided to start with feels performative and an odd direction creatively. Though, the other lens we could look at it through is that it’s just these public figures’ AIs getting an acting gig. 

While I’m sure some people are in shock right now – all of this didn’t come out of left field. Between Meta’s annual event, the Las Vegas Sphere’s official opening, generative AI media going viral across X/Twitter, and more –  last month revealed a lot about the shift in media we’re about to experience. 

Today we’re talking about what to have on your radar to feel prepared.