Evolution of Generative AI and Emerging Content Economy

Abstract

The technological evolution of generative AI has accelerated rapidly since 2022, paving the way for a new content economy that engages users. The emergence of deep learning techniques in 2016, specifically the Transformer, heralded advancements in unsupervised learning where machines learn automatically when provided with data. Represented by the advent of ChatGPT in 2022, technologies that auto-generate new content are on the brink of rapid evolution across diverse media. The advancements in deep learning, practical applications of speech and image recognition, and the integration of these technologies signify an era where creative tasks traditionally performed by humans, such as writing, drawing, music composition, filming, and editing, are being replaced by AI. This shift suggests a potential transition in content creation from professional creators to the general public, foreseeing a shift in the content economy from a creator-centric to a user-centric perspective.

Content created by AI is termed AIGC (AI Generated Content). It's crucial to discuss the kind of ecosystem this will create. AIGC could potentially disrupt the ecosystems of professionals known as creators, including scriptwriters, animators, actors, and more. Japan boasts unique cultures, such as globally successful media franchises centered around character content like Pokémon and user-driven content distribution markets. Hatsune Miku serves as a prime example. The combination of digital technology advancements, active user participation, fan enthusiasm, and flexible copyright management has created a fertile ground for integrating generative AI effectively into Japanese businesses. It's anticipated that the fusion of social media and generative AI will lead to the integration of User Generated Content with AIGC, expanding globally. However, the use of generative AI technology comes with various challenges, including copyright issues and ethical dilemmas. Instead of generative AI technology and human creators being at odds, their coexistence and collaborative creation of new content forms will be key to the future growth of the content industry.