Reddit Cofounder Ohanian Claims Bots, AI Ruined Internet’s Vitality
In recent years, a theory has emerged, suggesting that the internet’s vitality is waning due to the overwhelming presence of bots and automated content. Alexis Ohanian, cofounder of Reddit, spoke on the TBPN podcast about this phenomenon, linking it to what is commonly referred to as the “dead internet theory.”
Ohanian’s Perspective on Internet Vitality
During his podcast appearance, Ohanian remarked, “You all prove the point that so much of the internet is now just dead.” He highlighted the importance of engaging, live content, stating that it is crucial for retaining online attention.
Growing Concerns Over Bot Traffic
Significant statistics underscore Ohanian’s concerns. According to Cloudflare, nearly one-third of all internet traffic has been generated by bots in the past year. Similarly, Imperva’s Bad Bot Report from July revealed that around 50% of internet traffic comes from nonhuman sources, a portion of which is involved in malicious activities.
- Approx. 30% of internet traffic from bots in the last year.
- About 50% of traffic identified as nonhuman, including 20% from “bad bots.”
This surge in bot activity has raised alarms among business leaders. Many are now aware of the implications, as inflated metrics from bot interactions can misrepresent a company’s performance, impacting investments and growth projections.
A Shift Towards Human-Centered Platforms
Ohanian proposed a solution to counteract the bot dominance: creating platforms that are more human-centric. He noted that the next generation of social media should focus on authenticity and verifiable human interactions. He believes these interactions are currently flourishing in private group chats.
The Importance of Group Chats
Group chats, which have been dubbed “anti-social media,” have gained popularity as spaces for genuine discussions. They provide a private environment where users engage in meaningful conversations about culture, politics, and personal topics.
For example, Ben Smith reported that group chats have significantly influenced the tech industry and political landscapes in the U.S. He highlighted instances where such groups have fostered alliances across different sectors.
Innovation Amidst Challenges
Ohanian also discussed the crowded AI landscape. He believes this environment will lead to creative and delightful technology tailored for consumers. He cited examples like Doji, an AI platform that allows users to try on outfits virtually. His venture capital firm, Seven Seven Six, participated in a $14 million funding round for the startup.
Ohanian summarized his vision for the future: “How do you build the stuff that’s actually dope for the end consumer?” This sentiment reflects a desire for innovation that prioritizes human engagement over automated interactions, ensuring a more vibrant online space.
