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Plus: ChatGPT’s game-changing 2nd year, AI’s $13.8B wave

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Hello Code-breakers,

Welcome aboard another edition of Culture+Code+Commerce!

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Let’s dive into today’s edition

What To Know

ChatGPT celebrates 2 years of disruption

ChatGPT is only 2 years old, but its impact on everything from education to commerce has been profound.

  • It’s sparked widespread adoption of conversational AI and redefined content creation, marketing, and more.

  • The tool’s popularity has forced businesses to rethink customer engagement strategies.

"In just 2 years, ChatGPT has transformed the way we think about AI," said industry leaders. Read more.

What this means to you: The key isn’t just adopting tools like ChatGPT—it’s understanding how to integrate them to solve real business problems. Think beyond content creation to operational efficiencies.

What to watch for: Continued evolution of ChatGPT’s enterprise capabilities, including better integrations and analytics.

Bluesky’s moderation struggles reveal growing pains…

Building a better Twitter isn’t easy. Bluesky, a decentralized social platform, faces mounting challenges in content moderation as its user base grows.

  • Despite its innovative approach, moderation cracks are showing, with rising complaints about harmful content slipping through.

  • Its decentralized model puts more responsibility on communities but makes platform-wide enforcement tricky.

"We’re seeing the complexity of balancing free speech and safety," said Bluesky’s team. Read more.

What this means to you: Moderation tools will be critical for any growing community. Entrepreneurs launching platforms should prioritize user safety while fostering open communication. Adopting flexible tools now can avoid scaling pains later.

What to watch for: New Bluesky features or policies aimed at improving moderation without sacrificing user autonomy.

AI’s future in sports fandom scores big

The intersection of AI and sports is redefining fan engagement.

  • Teams are leveraging AI to predict game outcomes and improve fan experiences with AR/VR overlays.

  • Merchandise and content recommendations are becoming ultra-personalized, boosting loyalty and revenue.

"AI isn’t just enhancing the game—it’s redefining fandom," notes a Wired expert. Read more.

What this means to you: SMBs can use similar AI-driven personalization strategies to improve customer loyalty. Whether it’s predictive analytics or dynamic content, applying these tools can elevate your customer experience.

What to watch for: Innovations in fan engagement that could translate into broader AI marketing applications.

Estee Lauder’s debuts ChatGPT-powered beauty consultant

The beauty giant is partnering with ChatGPT to offer personalized product recommendations in a bold digital move.

  • Customers can chat with the AI to find the right shade or skincare solution, enhancing online shopping.

  • This integration aims to streamline decisions and reduce returns, a win-win for brands and buyers.

"AI is no longer optional—it’s the future of customer interaction," says Estee Lauder execs. Read more.

What this means to you: AI assistants are the next frontier in e-commerce. Even smaller brands can leverage tools like ChatGPT to provide seamless, tailored support to customers.

What to watch for: How Estee Lauder’s success could drive adoption of AI advisors in other industries.

Business spending on AI rockets 500%

Companies invested a staggering $13.8B in AI this year, according to Menlo Ventures.

  • The surge reflects the rapid adoption of generative AI, predictive modeling, and workflow automation.

  • Startups and SMBs aren’t just experimenting—they’re embedding AI across operations.

"AI investment is no longer a choice; it’s a competitive necessity," Menlo reports. Read more.

What this means to you: There’s never been a better time to invest in AI tools. Whether it’s streamlining operations or enhancing customer outreach, the ROI on AI is undeniable.

What to watch for: The industries where AI adoption is growing fastest—and what they’re doing right.

Anthropic introduces custom Claude AI presets

Anthropic now allows users to customize Claude’s style for their specific needs, from playful to professional tones.

  • This move caters to industries requiring diverse AI voice applications, like education, sales, and entertainment.

  • Custom presets aim to balance personalization with maintaining brand consistency.

"Flexibility will define the next era of AI," notes Anthropic. Read more.

What this means to you: SMBs should explore how tone and style customization in AI can better align with their brand voice, creating a seamless customer experience.

What to watch for: Broader adoption of personalized AI in SMB tools like CRMs and marketing software.

OpenAI’s Sora video project leaks

A leak hints at OpenAI's new platform, potentially blending gaming and AI.

  • Artists shared screenshots of an AI-enhanced virtual world-building tool.

  • The leak suggests OpenAI is exploring interactive entertainment and creative tools beyond ChatGPT.

"We’re just starting to see the depth of AI’s creative potential," insiders say. Read more.

What this means to you: Creative tools powered by AI could unlock new possibilities for branding, product design, and experiential marketing. Keep an eye on how OpenAI positions this tool.

What to watch for: An official announcement from OpenAI confirming Sora’s capabilities and target audience.

Zoom rebrands as an AI-first company

Zoom, once synonymous with video conferencing, has pivoted to embrace AI.

  • It’s focusing on AI-powered meeting tools, productivity features, and team collaboration.

  • The rebrand reflects the growing importance of AI in workplace tech.

"Zoom isn’t just about meetings anymore," the company emphasized. Read more.

What this means to you: If AI is transforming established giants like Zoom, it’s time for you to reconsider your tech stack. Look for AI tools that enhance efficiency and collaboration.

What to watch for: New AI features from Zoom that could redefine how teams collaborate remotely.

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