As millions have been playing with ChatGPT, a prototype Artificial Intelligence chatbot developed in 2022 by OpenAI, INMA asked the bot for advice (which is included here, unedited) about news subscriptions.

Greg Piechota, INMA: How could we use AI to grow digital news subscriptions?

ChatGPT, AI bot: One way to use AI to grow digital news subscriptions would be to use machine learning algorithms to analyze data on user behavior and preferences, and use this information to personalize the news content and recommendations that are shown to each individual user. 

This could help to increase the relevance and appeal of the news content, which could in turn lead to more people subscribing to the digital news service. 

Additionally, using AI to automate certain tasks, such as data analysis and content curation, could help to reduce the workload on human staff and allow them to focus on other areas of the business.

INMA: Could we use bots like you to create news articles for subscribers?

AI bot: While it is technically possible to use ChatGPT to generate news articles, it is important to note that ChatGPT is not designed to produce factually accurate or verifiable information. 

Instead, it is a language model that is trained to generate human-like responses based on the input it receives. As a result, it may not be suitable for creating news articles that are intended to be factually accurate or reliable. 

It is generally recommended that news articles be written by human journalists who have the knowledge, expertise, and fact-checking abilities to produce high-quality, accurate content. 

Using AI to assist with certain tasks, such as data analysis or content curation, can be helpful, but it should not be relied upon to produce the actual news content itself.

INMA: What about bots in news marketing?

AI bot: ChatGPT can assist in digital news subscription marketing by providing information and answering questions about the subscription, such as its cost, features, and benefits. 

ChatGPT can also assist in generating advertisements and marketing materials that highlight the value of the subscription and encourage potential customers to sign up. 

Additionally, ChatGPT can assist in providing customer support by answering common questions and concerns from potential subscribers. 

Overall, ChatGPT can help make the process of promoting and selling digital news subscriptions more efficient and effective.

INMA: OK. Try and write an ad for a digital subscription to The New York Times.

AI bot: Get unlimited access to the best in journalism with a digital subscription to the New York Times! Our expert reporters and editors bring you the latest on politics, business, sports, and more, all in one convenient place. With a digital subscription, you’ll have access to our articles, videos, and interactive features on any device, so you can stay informed on the go. 

Plus, with our constantly updating coverage, you’ll never miss a beat. Sign up now for your free trial and experience the power of the New York Times. Don’t miss out on the high-quality journalism you deserve.

Do you have a question for ChatGPT? Ask yourself. Question to human experts or peers? E-mail me at greg.piechota@inma.org.

Greg’s Readers First newsletter is a public face of a revenue and media subscriptions initiative by INMA, outlined here. Subscribe here. 

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