Perplexity Launches Revenue-Sharing Program with Publishers
Perplexity, an AI-powered search engine, announced plans to share revenue with publishers through its new Perplexity Publishers’ Program, launching by the end of September. This initiative aims to address concerns over AI-driven content usage without proper compensation. Backed by investors like Jeff Bezos and NVIDIA, Perplexity, valued at $3 billion, has faced criticism from major publications for allegedly using their content without permission (GOV.UK) .
How Perplexity's Program Works
Unlike other AI companies that pay large sums upfront, Perplexity will share a "meaningful double-digit percentage" of ad revenue generated from using publishers' content. The search engine displays a "Related" section with follow-up questions, where brands can pay for placement, and is exploring additional ad formats . This model allows publishers to earn revenue each time their content contributes to an AI-generated answer.
Addressing Industry Concerns
Publishers worry that AI-generated answers could reduce website traffic, impacting their revenue. Perplexity's program aims to provide a sustainable revenue stream for publishers while offering transparent citation of sources. This approach distinguishes Perplexity from competitors like Google, which do not currently compensate publishers for using their content in AI-generated answers .
The Future of AI and Content Monetization
As AI-powered search engines grow in popularity, the way they interact with and compensate content creators will become increasingly important. Perplexity's initiative could set a precedent for how AI companies and publishers collaborate, balancing technological innovation with fair compensation for content creators. However, the success of this program will depend on the effectiveness of Perplexity's ad business and the transparency of its revenue-sharing model .
In conclusion, Perplexity's revenue-sharing initiative represents a significant step towards equitable content use in the age of AI. While challenges remain, such as gaining publisher trust and establishing a robust ad business, this program could pave the way for a new standard in AI-publisher relations. For more details on the Perplexity Publishers’ Program, visit their official website.