Tech writer Shira Ovide joins to discuss America's internet issues, YouTube's media empire, and AI toothbrushes. Plus segment: OpenAI and ChatGPT training. Explore the lack of transparency in the US internet sector, regulatory challenges, and the rise of YouTube TV. Delve into AI consumer products, revenue generation for consulting firms, and the impact of drug advertisements on internet costs.
Limited competition and lax regulation contribute to high internet costs in the US.
Introduction of broadband nutrition labels enhances transparency in Internet service plans.
AI integration in consumer products reflects evolving consumer preferences for advanced technology.
Deep dives
High costs of Internet service in the US
The lack of competition and ineffective regulation leads to high costs of Internet service in the US, with users having little information about fair pricing and service quality. Various factors contribute to this issue, including local monopolies, poor government oversight, and a lack of transparency in pricing.
Broadband Nutrition Labels Improve Transparency
The introduction of broadband nutrition labels in the US marks a positive change, requiring Internet service providers to disclose key information like internet speed, costs, and additional fees upfront. This move aims to enhance transparency and empower consumers by providing clear details about their Internet service plans.
AI Hype in Consumer Products
The surge in AI integration into consumer products, such as a $400 AI-equipped toothbrush, reflects a broader trend of leveraging AI in innovative ways. While some products may showcase over-hyped AI features, the commercialization of AI technology in everyday items highlights evolving consumer preferences for advanced technology solutions.
Effect of Streaming on Music Revenue
The adaptation of a musician's song 'Magic' for an Ozempic ad illustrates a significant revenue opportunity for artists in licensing deals with major brands. The commercial success of integrating music into advertisements underscores the income potential for musicians through strategic partnerships.
Inflow of Investment into China
The inclusion of Chinese shares and bonds in global indices has driven a substantial influx of investment, estimated at $380 billion since 2018. Index changes by MSCI, FTSE Russell, and others have propelled capital flows into China, highlighting the country's growing prominence in the global financial landscape.
This week, Slate Money hacks the mainframe! Washington Post tech writer Shira Ovide joins Felix Salmon, Emily Peck, and Elizabeth Spiers to discuss what’s wrong with America’s internet industry, how YouTube became the media empire no one talks about, and the promise and peril of the AI toothbrush. In the Plus segment: OpenAI is using YouTube to train ChatGPT. Is that legal?
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Podcast production by Jared Downing and Cheyna Roth.