The publishers' guide to being gaslit by tech platforms (the AI edition)
Briefly

Google's claims regarding its AI Overviews suggest improvements in search traffic and click quality, but many publishers report decreases. Liz Reid from Google dismisses third-party reports of traffic drops as flawed. This sentiment reflects a broader trend of tech companies reframing metrics and softening their narratives amid criticism. The phrase 'reasonable licensing terms' reveals that such language often means a deal that inadequately compensates for value derived, a common tactic in AI licensing negotiations. Publishers are reminded to trust their data over corporate narratives, especially when success metrics are redefined.
Google's claims of improved traffic and click quality have faced scrutiny as many reports indicate drops in publisher traffic, suggesting a disconnect between corporate narratives and actual data.
When platforms redefine success metrics, it often signals that previous indicators are unfavorable. Publishers are advised to prioritize their own data over corporate narratives that may not reflect reality.
Read at Digiday
[
|
]