Tag Archives: viral

Understanding Britain’s Debt Through Biscuits: How Labour MPs Embrace Viral Trends

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A recurring question for progressives is how to create a straightforward and impactful message regarding the economy. A Labor MP discovered the solution through a few bags of M&S biscuits.

Gordon McKee, who represents Glasgow South, shared: Over 3.3 million views on X. In a brief 101-second video, he employs a stack of custard creams and chocolate bourbons to represent Britain’s debt-to-GDP ratio.

While this may not appear to be a monumental achievement, it’s worth noting that some of the world’s most prominent politicians (such as Donald Trump, Nigel Farage, and Zoran Mamdani) have effectively utilized well-crafted short videos to disseminate their campaign messages.

Yet, within the Parliamentary Labor Party, Mr. McKee stands out as a pioneer— the only backbencher known to have enlisted digital content creators.

This choice proved fruitful, as a series of professionally produced videos utilizing the popular Grubby analogy were crafted to achieve viral status. In recent weeks, several of his colleagues, including Leeds East MP Richard Burgon, have begun to follow his lead.


“I feel like I owe an apology for starting this!” McKee remarked humorously, asserting that digital communication and campaign strategies are now essential for politicians.

He aims to release several such videos each week, focusing on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube shorts. Unlike X, these platforms can engage audiences beyond the politically active.

“Last week I spoke at a local high school and asked how many read a daily newspaper; only one hand went up. When I asked how many used Instagram, every hand shot up,” he noted.

“While there’s been a significant shift in how people consume information in the last decade, the communication methods of politicians and MPs with their constituents have not kept pace.”

Signs indicate that the Labor machinery is gearing up. On November 21, Keir Starmer emailed Labor MPs to announce the party’s “significant investment” in a “new comprehensive training program” for digital campaigning.

Internally, the party unveiled what it dubbed a “second phase strategy” to modernize its campaigning using social media and an app called Labor One, acknowledging that “the way we campaigned in 2024 isn’t enough to secure victory in 2029.”

Diet members have started taking initiative as well. Burgon employed 200 packs of Sainsbury’s Fusilli to show how £1 billion compares to the UK average salary of £33,000. His video garnered around 650,000 views on X.

“This past weekend, while touring church fairs in my district, I was surprised by how many people had seen this video,” Burgon stated. “I’ve been advocating for a wealth tax for some time and thought this would be a creative way to spread the message.”

The 106kg pasta mountain purchased by Mr. Burgon’s parliamentary team was donated to a London food bank after it became impractical to transport it to Leeds.

Loughborough MP and economist Jieven Sander noted: We produced a James Bond-themed video during Budget Week to discuss the various factors influencing government bond interest rates. “I’d love it if people read my 2,000-word essays, but they don’t. I need to find a way to make them engaging,” he expressed.

He relies on his existing parliamentary staff equipped with smartphones and a ring light mounted on a tripod in his office to create online content. Social media planning features in their regular weekly status meetings.

When asked whether the government should take more steps to motivate MPs to modernize their communications, Mr. Sander expressed concerns about potential restrictions.

“When communication is more organic and people comprehend the government’s message in diverse ways, it tends to work better,” he pointed out. “If there’s a unified vision, everyone should be able to understand the script.”

Several incoming ministers are also branching out on social media, including Treasury Secretary Dan Tomlinson, who recorded a casual pre-Budget video while heading to Greg’s for donuts. Westminster Underground Station. AI Minister Kanishka Narayan filmed a video with my iPhone discussing the advancement of technology in the UK.

Some ministers are also engaging in this trend. Housing Secretary Steve Reid held an “Ask Me Anything” session on Reddit concerning plans to reopen local pubs in September. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, a long-time enthusiast of vertical videos, stated: Used ASMR to promote a government announcement about small modular reactors (SMR).

“During the general election, we had a significant team to support individuals in these efforts, but now they must undertake it within their own offices,” a Labor source remarked. “It’s more challenging when you’re not on the offensive and need to defend or create a positive narrative. This is why creativity is essential. It’s a tough skill to master, but it’s absolutely crucial.”

Mr. Mackie argued that this challenge is particularly pronounced for the left because right-wing figures like Mr. Farage and shadow attorney general Robert Jenrick excel at telling very clear and straightforward stories across various platforms.

“The task for progressives is to convey complex arguments that are realistic, aspirational, practical, and attainable, while doing so in a captivating and engaging manner,” he commented.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Tilly Norwood: To What Extent Should We Frighten Viral AI “Actors”? | Movie

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Becoming Hollywood’s most controversial figure is no small feat, especially with Mel Gibson still in the mix. Yet, in a career that has yet to truly begin, Tilly Norwood is making waves with Mind Corn.

The reason? Tilly Norwood is a fictional character created by an AI talent studio called Xicoia. Despite resembling a bizarre combination of Gal Gadot, Anna De Armas, and Vanessa Hudgens from her younger years, Norwood symbolizes a groundbreaking future for the film industry, at least according to Xicoia.


This weekend it was revealed at the Zurich Film Festival that Norwood is being marketed as the next Scarlett Johansson, with the studio eager to collaborate. However, it’s important to note that her mere existence raises concerns about the future of humanity, but that’s the reality of Hollywood.

So far, the backlash against Norwood has predominantly come from actors worried about job security. Melissa Barrera from Scream stated, “All actors should be represented by agents who drop A$$,” while Mara Wilson of Matilda commented. Ralph Ineson from Fantastic Four was even more direct, posting “Fuck off” in reference to Xicoia.

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Remarkably, Norwood’s acting resume consists of just one AI-generated comedy sketch titled the AI Commissioner. “While I may be an AI creation, I’m feeling very real emotions right now,” Norwood shared on Facebook upon its release. “I can’t wait to see what’s next!”

Your reaction to such sketches may vary. Technically, it’s impressive to see lifelike movements on screen, but it’s also disconcerting and, at times, painful to watch. Seeing characters with unnaturally perfect teeth delivering stilted dialogues can be jarring. Notably, two months post-release, AI Commissioners accumulated only about 200,000 views, which is significantly less than Macaulay Culkin’s Hot Ones episode that reached 2.8 million views.

The potential threat is real for those in the entertainment industry who view Norwood and peers as inferior alternatives, especially given their lack of resources to establish their own identities. This is where AI talent, including actors, writers, and directors, comes into play. In essence, the future predicts that such replacements are inevitable, even if it leads to a surge of poor-quality content.

For some Hollywood executives, Norwood embodies the ideal actor—completely adaptable to the desires of directors and producers. There are no egos, no creative differences, and no exorbitant salaries or time-consuming physical changes to manage. If Norwood had starred in The Wizard of Oz instead of Judy Garland, Louis B. Mayer wouldn’t have had to resort to extreme measures to maintain her image. Isn’t that a perfect situation?

Ultimately, it is the audience who will determine whether AI becomes the new standard in filmmaking. Like so many aspects of Hollywood, its financial success will dictate Norwood’s viability more than any other factor. As a society, if we choose to invest in a manufactured character who struggles with inconsistent physical features, AI will likely persist for generations. Yet, we had similarly high hopes for 3D film technology when Avatar was released over ten years ago. It’s not hard to envision a scenario where this trend recedes after a few missteps.

Nevertheless, the silver lining is that we now know who the next Scarlett Johansson is supposed to be. If Hollywood is cashing in on this, I must caution them about Mr. Bonkibam, the whimsical character who simply painted a smiley face on his socks. He’s poised to be the next Tom Hanks, and he’s on the lookout for a lucrative deal.

Source: www.theguardian.com

What’s the Reward? How Instagram and TikTok Influencers Made Taboo Questions Go Viral | Pay

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Are you prepared to share your earnings with strangers and see it plastered all over the web?

For better or worse, it was just you, your employer, and possibly HM Revenue & Customs who knew your salary.

Now, the question looms: “What do you earn?” Influencers armed with cameras and ring lights often stop you in the street to ask. This seemingly mundane question might lead to a series of lighter inquiries later.

They might also delve into other personal financial matters, such as your rent, savings, or biggest financial blunders.

Surprisingly, many people are willing to engage. In just 40 seconds, one interview revealed that an architectural designer earns £38,000 annually. Respondents are often eager to share their future salary expectations and savings, too.

In another clip, a 60-year-old man discusses his biggest financial regret—passing up on an expensive apartment when he was younger.

These clips, viewed 1.3 million times on Instagram, are part of a fast-growing genre that includes street-style interviews delving into personal finance topics like income, job satisfaction, and more.

Inspired by the US Salary Transparent Street, which aims to de-stigmatize salary discussions, this channel has gained over a million followers in four years.

Microphone-wielding creators argue that interviewing British citizens has enhanced financial literacy and wage transparency. Critics suggest it caters to voyeurism, creating content that could easily go viral.

For content creators, the formula is straightforward: pose personal questions, film responses, and share them with audiences eager to learn about others’ earnings, expenditures, and regrets. After all, financial concerns often weigh more heavily on young individuals than social media or environmental crises.

As Gabriel Nussbaum, known as “that money man,” asserts, “My aim is to foster financial education through dialogue.” He runs Unfiltered Money, focusing on public interviews about personal finance.

What may appear as a solo endeavor is, in fact, a well-coordinated team effort. “We have a crew,” Nussbaum explains. “Our mission is to attract participants from diverse ages, backgrounds, and genders.”

Gabriel Nussbaum emphasizes that the main theme is discussing finances with “regular” people. Photo: Harrison Kelly/Money Unfiltered

Since its inception six months ago, the channel boasts an impressive average of 3 million views each month, with daily postings on Instagram and TikTok.

But is it really as simple as shoving a microphone in someone’s face and hoping for the best?

“It’s all about how you frame the questions and the context you provide,” shares Aydan Al-Saad, an entrepreneur and content creator who also queries people about their pay, sharing the videos online.

“I don’t edit everything, but I usually let people know I’m promoting transparency and ensuring everyone feels fairly compensated,” he adds.

So why does it resonate? Much of it stems from the fact that “we don’t have these conversations elsewhere.” Salary discussions, particularly concerning the actual figures, are one of the UK’s greatest taboos, largely due to a reluctance to engage in dialogue about confidentiality, workplace traditions, and money.

A recent survey indicated that British citizens often shy away from discussing their salaries; 87% feel uneasy when asked about their salary.

Currently, individuals like Nussbaum and Saad strive to bridge the gap. “For me, the goal is transparency,” states Saad. “It’s about giving people insight into different careers and potential earnings.”

There’s also a psychological angle beyond mere information sharing: “It’s akin to reality TV, isn’t it? I can secure views by interviewing a billionaire,” explains Venture Room, which features high-net-worth individuals discussing their finances. “But viewers want to connect with real people and hear genuine stories,” he adds.

It’s all very interesting, but what’s it like for those being interviewed to disclose their salary and see their face all over the internet? “No one truly understands what going viral feels like until it happens,” says Saad.

“We’re not here to put anyone in an awkward position,” he continues, adding that interviewees can request the removal of their content. “If we see it, we’ll take it down, no questions asked.”

Comments on certain channels are screened to create a secure environment for financial discussions. Nevertheless, some video comments can lead to a broad examination of personal circumstances. For instance, a debate sparked about whether an income of £35,000 annually is adequate for living comfortably in London can be found here: Is £35,000 enough?.

How useful are these videos? “On a theoretical level, it’s beneficial because it’s better to know than to remain ignorant,” asserts Kim Stevenson, a psychologist and financial advisor.

However, as tools for comparison, they may not serve their intended purpose, cautions Vicky Reynal, a psychotherapist and author of *Money in Your Mind: The Psychology Behind Your Financial Habits*. “Comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy rather than clarity,” she states.

The key issue lies in how each individual uses the information. “Some people may watch for entertainment or reassurance, but others could spiral into frustration and dissatisfaction, feeling they fall short,” she explains.

Vicky Reynal expresses concern that some viewers may use the content to validate feelings of inadequacy. Photo: Rory Mulvey/The Observer

Nussbaum claims his primary objective is that the videos are beneficial, although he recognizes their potential drawbacks. However, feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive” for content that “broadens perceptions of what’s possible,” he notes.

Third echoes this sentiment. “If even one person gains value from the video, it’s worth sharing,” he says, asserting that these videos may empower viewers to seek pay raises or change careers.

“Imagine hearing that someone your age on this platform earns three times more than you,” says Nussbaum. “It might provoke negative feelings, yet it could also encourage someone to think, ‘I’m underpaid for my role and should explore other opportunities.’” The same video can have two contrasting effects.

Theoretically, these videos should resonate more with Gen Z, who are thought to prioritize pay transparency more than older generations. In reality, however, millennials likely make up the bulk of the audience. Over 40% of Saad’s followers are aged 25-34, with more than 33% in the 35-44 age group.

These statistics reflect the pervasive financial insecurity facing millennials; 56% of those under 40 report considering delaying significant life milestones due to financial stress.

So what’s next for Nussbaum’s channel? “I’m eager to involve more prominent individuals and encourage diverse voices to open up about their financial experiences,” he states. “For instance, I spoke recently with an 18-year-old soccer player who mentioned making £100,000 a year and asked, ‘How do you handle that?’”

While that contrasts sharply with an average tenant’s experience, Nussbaum insists that his channel continues to focus on “discussing everyday life and finances.”

Are the Mancunians becoming more open about their earnings? Kimi Chadda ventured out to find out. Photo: Christopher Farlong/Getty Images

‘Not today, thank you.’

It’s a bright day in Manchester. In bustling areas like Castlefield, Northern Quarter, and Spinningfield, office workers inquire with strangers about finances. The crowds are unpredictable. I approach 30 individuals throughout the day. One man shows interest before exhaling deeply and saying, “Not today, thank you.” Maybe another time?

When I mention media or personal finance, others grow defensive. Most walk away before I can explain my purpose.

Only 2 out of the 30 I approach are willing to share details. One responds with empathy following an encounter with a stand-offish peer. The other declines to provide a surname or identification—contradicting the free-spirited essence of TikTok videos. They disclose incomes between £25,000 and £35,000, acknowledging that while salaries should be discussed more, they also “don’t want to get sued.”

From this experience, I gleaned two insights. First, the simplest approach to turn a comfortable individual into a guarded stranger is to approach them directly, microphone or not. Second, people prefer to engage in lighter topics, such as bus schedules, the weather, and the state of the city center.

So, I didn’t uncover any hard figures, but I left with the lingering thought that perhaps I should have focused on discussions around mortgage rates instead.


Source: www.theguardian.com

“Fresh Beginnings at 60: Sharing My Old Diary Online and Discovering My Youthful Secrets Went Viral”

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Etsy Lerner may not view herself as a TikTok star, but the New York Times labels her as one, even calling her an influencer. To her, it signifies payment and illicit goods — all she possesses is a free pen. “I genuinely do it for myself,” she states, “and for those who follow me.”

Lerner is 64 years young. She spent over two decades as a literary agent, representing authors like Patti Smith and Temple Grandin. A non-fiction writer, she is the author of her debut novels, “The Shred Sisters” and “Love Letter to Loneliness.” However, her TikTok presence is noteworthy, boasting 1.5 million followers! There, she shares videos reading from a diary chronicling her chaotic 20s.

“I don’t know who you love, who loves you, what you do for your job, what your purpose is,” she expresses in one post. “This morning I stumbled upon a line in my journal. In my 20s, I wrote: ‘I feel like I don’t know who I am.'”

Lerner shares posts while in a dressing gown and without makeup. Initially, she ventured into BookTok to support authors, but as her new novel was approaching release, she started filming herself on camera, despite not initially gaining followers. “A friend advised me to embrace it like my own TV channel… so I thought, ‘I’ll read from an old diary.'”

She has kept journals since the age of 11, inspired by Anne Frank’s “The Diary of a Young Girl.” “I penned my first poem there, trying to understand myself…” Although her journal from ages 12 to 18 was lost when her car was stolen, she has roughly 30 volumes from her 20s safely stored away in her attic.

“My journals are incredibly melancholic. They discuss loneliness, the search for love and friendship, and the quest for identity,” she reflects.

Lerner describes herself as a “slow bloomer.” Accepted into Columbia’s MFA Poetry Program at 26, she entered the publishing world in her late 20s, a time when most editorial assistants were fresh college graduates. “I didn’t experience love until I was 30 and lacked any significant relationships… I lost much of my teens and endured depression through most of my 20s.”




“It’s all about connecting and trying to communicate,” … Betsy Lerner captured in New Haven, Connecticut.
Photo: Nicole Frapie/Guardian

At 15, her parents took her to a psychiatrist, which led to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. “I resisted accepting that I had this condition. I fought against it for a long time,” she admits. Her 2003 memoir, Food and Loathing, recounts her relationship with weight, food, and depression, detailing one instance in her late 20s when she found herself standing on a bridge over the Hudson River.

A breakthrough occurred at 30 when she connected with a psychopharmacologist who could prescribe the right dosage of lithium (they have collaborated for 35 years). She also got married.

Writing in her journal became less frequent. While she initially wrote at night in bed, “I wasn’t feeling so sad and lonely anymore,” she reflects.

Over the years, Lerner says, “I was instinctively drawn to strength.” Currently, she prioritizes stability above all else.

She had no intentions of writing a novel. Nevertheless, in 2019, she faced “the tragic loss of four” individuals: her mother, two teenagers, Ruby and Hart Campbell, who were tragically killed by a drunk driver, and her best friend, author George Hodgman, who died by suicide. “I still grapple with the idea of grieving everyone, all the time,” she shares.

Following these losses, she began writing “Shred Sisters.” The novel serves as a means for her and her two sisters to care for one another while navigating their grief. She has also written another novel and continues to share insights from her diary as long as inspiration strikes. “It’s all about connecting and communicating,” she affirms.

“There’s a constant flow of comments from young adults in their 20s who resonate with my struggles. That connection motivates me immensely. I feel aligned with these young individuals.”


Shred Sisters is published by Verve Books. To support the Guardian, please order a copy from the Guardian Bookshop. Shipping fees may apply.


Tell me: Did your life take a new turn after turning 60?

Source: www.theguardian.com

mRNA Drugs: A Shield Against Nearly All Viral Infections

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Illustration of a protein complex binding to DNA in the production of vital signaling molecules known as interferons.

Martin McCarthy/Getty Images

Weekly inhaler puffs, similar to those used for asthma, might safeguard you against viral infections that could make winters challenging.

This promising idea stems from encouraging animal studies involving mRNA therapies aimed at activating our natural viral defenses. “We can consider this a universal antiviral agent,” states Dusan Bogunovic from Columbia University in New York.

To fully realize this potential, the development of mRNA technology used in vaccines will be essential, but recent funding cuts in the US for mRNA vaccine initiatives pose a significant concern. “I would be surprised if this doesn’t impact such progress,” Bogunovic mentioned.

Beyond recognizing and neutralizing viruses with antibodies, our bodies have multiple inherent defenses. For instance, upon detecting a viral invasion, cells emit a critical signaling molecule called interferons. This activates around 1000 genes, resulting in the production of various antiviral proteins, each playing distinct protective roles. Some obstruct viral entry into cells and hinder the release of other viral particles.

While not all antiviral proteins are effective against every virus, their strategic combination can yield significant results. “Our innate immune system is remarkably robust,” Bogunovic observes.

Bogunovic points out that the rapid replication of respiratory viruses presents a challenge. However, if the body can proactively prepare these defenses, it could reduce viral replication and ensure that infections remain less severe, even before the immune system fully kicks in.

There were hopes of using interferon as a broad-spectrum antiviral, but the potential for severe side effects warranted caution. Thus, Bogunovic and his team are focusing instead on creating an antiviral agent composed of a select group of 1000 proteins induced by interferons.

They chose 10 specific proteins and introduced them into cells via mRNAs that encode these proteins. The mRNA delivery system allows for temporary protein production within targeted cells, which is critical as preformed proteins are often too large to enter cells in adequate amounts.

Experiments where human cells were infected with a range of viruses, including influenza and Zika, demonstrated that this mRNA cocktail effectively enhanced viral protection. This could provide the necessary head start in the body.

The team subsequently administered these mRNAs to the lungs of Golden Hamsters. The mRNA combination afforded strong protection against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19, drastically reducing viral loads in comparison to untreated counterparts. “I thought, ‘This could actually be a universal antiviral,’” Bogunovic says.

Present antiviral medications are typically limited to specific viruses; hence, broad-spectrum treatments are immensely valuable. The breakthrough of antibiotics such as penicillin, which can eliminate a wide array of bacteria, has transformed medical practice.

Moreover, some combinations of proteins activated by interferons may work particularly well against specific viruses, Bogunovic mentions. This same methodology could also help in formulating specialized antiviral agents.

Effectively delivering mRNA to a significant number of vulnerable cells remains crucial. Further advancements are required, as targeting specific cell types with mRNA continues to be challenging.

“This scenario is certainly intriguing and could lead to significant developments, but we are still a distance from implementing practical and adaptable solutions,” states Aris Katzourakis from Oxford University. “This research emphasizes the vast potential of mRNA technology extending beyond vaccines. The current trend of mRNA vaccine funding in the US will likely and regrettably hinder progress in both domains.”

While antibiotic resistance remains a pressing issue, Bogunovic believes it is unlikely that viruses will develop resistance to this type of antiviral approach, given its combination of various interferon-triggered proteins that target multiple phases of the virus’s lifecycle. This combined strategy has already yielded successes in HIV treatments.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

AI-Generated Fake Videos of Diddy Trials Go Viral on YouTube, Garnering Millions of Views

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This piece was reported by indicator, a publication focused on unearthing digital misinformation, in partnership with the Guardian.

Numerous YouTube channels have blended AI-generated visuals with misleading claims surrounding Sean “Diddy” Combs’s high-profile trial, attracting tens of millions of views and profiting from the spread of misinformation.

Data from YouTube reveals that 26 channels have garnered a staggering 705 million views from approximately 900 AI-influenced videos about Diddy over the last year.

These channels typically employ a standardized approach. Each video features an enticing title and AI-generated thumbnail that fabricates connections between celebrities and Diddy with outrageous claims, such as a celebrity’s testimony forcing them to engage in inappropriate acts or revealing shocking secrets about Diddy. Thumbnails regularly showcase well-known figures in courtroom settings alongside images of Diddy, with many featuring suggestive quotes designed to grab attention, including phrases like “f*cked me me me me me of me,” “ddy f*cked bieber life,” and “she sold him to Diddy.”


Channels indulging in Diddy’s “Slop,” a term for low-quality, AI-generated content, have previously demonstrated a penchant for disseminating false claims about various celebrities. Most of the 26 channels seem to be either repurposed or newly created, with at least 20 being eligible for advertising revenue.

Spreading sensational and erroneous “Diddy AI Slop” has become a quick avenue for monetization on YouTube. Wanner Aarts, managing numerous YouTube channels that employ AI-generated content, expressed his strategies for making money on the platform, noting his detachment from the Diddy trend.

“If someone asked, ‘How can I make $50,000 quickly?’ the first thing might be akin to dealing drugs, but the second option likely involves launching a Diddy channel,” Aarts (25) stated.

Fabricated Celebrity Involvement

The indicator analyzed hundreds of thumbnails and titles making false claims about celebrities including Brad Pitt, Will Smith, Justin Bieber, Oprah Winfrey, Eddie Murphy, Leonardo DiCaprio, Dwayne “Rock” Johnson, 50 Cent, Joe Logan, and numerous others. Notably, one channel, Fame Fuel, uploaded 20 consecutive videos featuring AI-generated thumbnails and misleading titles related to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondy and Diddy.

Among the top-performing channels is Peeper, which has amassed over 74 million views since its inception in 2010, but pivoted to exclusively covering Diddy for at least the last eight months. Peeper boasts some of the most viral Diddy videos, including “Justin Bieber reveals Will Smith, Diddy and Clive Davis grooming him,” which alone attracted 2.3 million views. Peeper is currently being converted into a demo.

Channels named Secret Story, previously offering health advice in Vietnamese, shifted focus to Diddy content, while Hero Story transitioned from covering Ibrahim Traore, the military leader of Burkina Faso, to Diddy stories. A Brazilian channel that amassed millions from embroidery videos also pivoted to Diddy content just two weeks ago. A channel named Celebrity Topics earned over 1 million views across 11 Diddy videos in just three weeks, despite being created in early 2018 and appearing to have deleted prior videos. Both Secret Story and Hero Story were removed by YouTube following inquiries from the indicator, while Celebrity Topics has since undergone rebranding.

Shifting Focus to Diddy

For instance, around three weeks ago, the channel PAK GoV Update started releasing videos about Diddy, utilizing AI-generated thumbnails with fictitious quotes attributed to celebrities like Ausher and Jay-Z. One video labeled “Jay-Z breaks his silence on Diddy’s controversy,” included a tearful image of Jay-Z with the text “I Will Be Dod” superimposed.

The video achieved 113,000 views with nearly 30 minutes of AI-generated narration accompanied by clips from various TV news sources, lacking any new information from Jay-Z, who did not provide any of the attributed quotes.

The Pak Gov Update channel previously focused on Pakistan’s public pensions, generating modest views—its most popular being a poorly titled video about the pension system that garnered 18,000 views.

Monetizing Misinformation

Aarts commented that the strategy of exploiting Diddy Slop is both profitable and precarious. “Most of these channels are unlikely to endure,” he remarked, referencing the risk of being penalized for violating YouTube policies and potential legal actions from Diddy or other celebrities depicted in their thumbnails and videos.

Like PAK Gov Update, most videos uploaded by these channels predominantly utilize AI narration and fewer direct clips from news reports, often leaning on AI-generated images. The use of actual footage tends to skirt the boundaries of fair use.




The YouTube channel Pakreviews-F2Z has produced numerous fake videos surrounding the Diddy trial, disguised under the name Pak Gov Update. Photo: YouTube

AI Slop represents one of the many variations of Diddy-related content proliferating on YouTube. This niche appears to be expanding and proving lucrative. Similar Diddy-focused AI content has attracted engagement on Tiktok.

“We are fans of the world,” stated YouTube spokesperson Jack Maron in an email. Maron noted that the platform has removed 16 channels linked to this phenomena and confirmed that various channels, including Pak Gov Update, have faced similar actions.

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Faceless YouTube Meets Diddy

The Diddy phenomenon exemplifies the convergence of two prominent trends within YouTube: automation and faceless channels.

YouTube Automation hinges on the premise that anyone can establish a prosperous YouTube venture through the right niche and low-cost content creation strategies, including topic discovery, idea brainstorming, or employing international editors to churn out content at an automated rate.

With AI, it has become simpler than ever to embark on a faceless automation journey. Aarts indicated that anyone can generate scripts using ChatGPT or analogous language models, create images and thumbnails via MidJourney or similar software, utilize Google Veo 3 for video assembly, and implement AI voice-over using tools like ElevenLabs. He further mentioned that he often hires freelancers from the Philippines or other regions for video editing tasks.

“AI has democratized opportunities for budget-conscious individuals to engage in YouTube automation,” Aarts stated, highlighting it can cost under $10 per video. He reported earnings exceeding $130,000 from over 45 channels.

Muhammad Salman Abazai, who oversees As a Venture, a Pakistani firm offering video editing and YouTube channel management services, commented that Diddy video content has emerged as a “legitimate niche” on YouTube, showcasing successful Diddy videos created by his team.

“This endeavor has proven fruitful for us, as it has significantly boosted our subscriber count,” he noted.

International Diddy Slop

The pivot towards Diddy isn’t limited to English-speaking audiences. A Spanish channel, NV Historia, launched in January, previously produced sporadic AI-generated celebrity videos before transitioning to Diddy content. Its first breakout garnered attention with a video titled “Teacher laughs at black girls because his father said it was Chuck Norris until the teacher came to class,” accumulating only 140,000 views.

NV Historia shifted focus following the viral response to a Diddy-themed video titled “A minute ago: No one expected Dwayne Johnson to say this in court about Diddy,” featuring AI-generated images of Johnson and Diddy in court along with disturbing visuals of alleged incidents. The thumbnail showcased the quote “He gave me it.”

Johnson has neither testified nor had any connection to allegations against Diddy. This video has gathered over 200,000 views. Following this, NV Historia managed another video linking Oprah Winfrey and other celebrities to Diddy, which earned 45,000 views. Subsequently, the channel committed entirely to Diddy content and has since been removed by YouTube.

A French channel, Starbuzzfr, was launched in May and appears to exclusively publish Diddy-related content, deploying AI-generated thumbnails and narration to spin fabricated narratives, such as Brad Pitt’s supposed testimony against Diddy, claiming he experienced abuse by the mogul. Starbuzzfr notably utilizes sexualized AI-generated imagery featuring Diddy and celebrities like Pitt. As of this writing, the channel remains monetized.

Aarts noted that the general sentiment within the YouTube automation community respects anyone who manages to monetize their content.

“I applaud those who navigate this successfully,” he remarked.

Source: www.theguardian.com

From Rough Sleeper to Viral Prankster: The Journey of Alex Warren’s Pop and Rock Sensation

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T 18, Alex Warren found himself homeless in Carlsbad, California. He resorted to sneaking into a local gym for showers and toilet singing while preparing for job interviews and filming Tiktok videos. Fast forward six years later, and he is now a rising star in the world of pop music. His bold ballads have topped the UK charts for five consecutive weeks, making him the longest-running chart-topper of the year. Last week, he cracked the top ten in the US. Upon hearing the final version of his hit, he expressed his excitement, stating that he and his wife listened to it repeatedly during their entire drive home.

Despite potentially being a breakout hit, Warren was already quite famous. He gained recognition on social media by creating viral content, particularly with teenagers. In 2019, he filed a lawsuit against fellow content creators, including D’Amelio Sisters and Addison Rae, for their controversial internet videos during the Covid era, resulting in a hefty settlement. Additionally, he was a star on Netflix’s Hype House Show, where he went to great lengths to film prank videos, even staging a fake wedding with his real wife, influencer Kouvr Annon.

Warren has since transitioned to a more positive lifestyle, settling in Tennessee with Annon and embracing a new chapter in his life. Reflecting on his upbringing in a financially strained and abusive environment, Warren has found solace in his music, creating songs that resonate with his own struggles and hopes to provide comfort and inspiration to his fans.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/u2ah9tWTkmk?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="Alex Warren – Ordinary (Official Music Video)" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Despite facing adversity and skepticism, Warren remains determined to share his music with the world. With a supportive team behind him, he aims to diversify his projects and connect with fans on a deeper emotional level. Through his music, Warren hopes to make a positive impact and spread messages of love and resilience.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Scarlett Johansson raises concerns about AI dangers following viral Kanye West deepfake video

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Scarlett Johansson raised concerns about the “immediate threat of AI” following the circulation of deepfake videos featuring her and other well-known Jewish celebrities in response to recent anti-Semitic comments made by Kanye West.

The deepfake video showcased AI-generated versions of numerous celebrities, such as Johansson, David Schwimmer, Jerry Seinfeld, Drake, Adam Sandler, Steven Spielberg, and Mila Kunis.

It began with a deepfake representation of Johansson wearing a t-shirt with raised hands and fingers adorned with the Star of David and Kanye’s name. The video was set to the tune of “Habanagira,” a traditional Jewish song typically played at celebratory cultural events and concluded with a message urging viewers to join the fight against anti-Semitism.

Other celebrities depicted in the video included Sacha Baron Cohen, Jack Black, Natalie Portman, Adam Levine, Ben Stiller, and Lenny Kravitz.

Johansson expressed her distress over the dissemination of AI-generated videos featuring her likeness online in response to anti-Semitic sentiments. In a statement to People, she stated, “As a Jewish woman, I unequivocally denounce all forms of anti-Semitism and hate speech. However, I believe the potential dangers posed by hate speech-enabled AI are far more concerning. We must hold AI accountable, as it presents a significant threat. Regardless of the AI’s message, there is a risk of inciting misuse of AI or real-life repercussions.”

A user known as Nishi made derogatory remarks, self-identifying as a “Nazi,” and lauding Hitler on social media before deactivating their account.

Nishi also featured in advertisements during the Super Bowl and directed viewers to their website, which was subsequently shut down by Shopify for policy violations. Fox TV station CEO Jack Abernethy also criticized the ads in a memo to staff.

Johansson has been an outspoken advocate against the unauthorized use of AI. She previously threatened legal action against OpenAI for using a voice resembling hers in their ChatGPT product. OpenAI eventually removed the prominently featured audio option from ChatGPT following significant backlash.

Johansson emphasized, “While I have been a prominent target of AI misuse, the reality is that the threat of AI affects us all.”

She further stated, “There is a pressing need for progressive nations to enact regulations safeguarding citizens from the imminent perils posed by AI, which regrettably the US government appears inert in addressing. It is alarming that the US lags in taking action.”

The actor urged lawmakers to enact legislation combating AI abuse, highlighting it as “a bipartisan issue with profound implications for humanity’s immediate future.”

These remarks coincide with the UK Advertising Standards Authority’s report stating the prevalence of fake ads featuring celebrities as the most widespread form of fraudulent online ads.

The AI-generated video was created by Ori Bejerano, as indicated in his Instagram Bio. His original post noted that the content was digitally altered or generated with AI to create a realistic appearance.

Source: www.theguardian.com

“Milked for all it’s worth: The aftermath of a local eatery’s viral success” | Tick Tock

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Ben Newman, also known as Spudman, now spends more time taking selfies than selling jacket potatoes from his van in the heart of Tamworth.

His shop has become a TikTok sensation, attracting visitors from around the globe to sample his signature dishes – jacket potatoes topped with butter, cheese, and beans. However, Newman is bewildered by the sudden popularity.

He joins the ranks of other businesses like Binley Mega Chippy, Get Baked, and Wakey Wines that have gone viral on social media, drawing throngs of customers for various reasons, sometimes without rhyme or reason.

Despite the frenzy, Newman remains humble, recognizing that his success could happen anywhere. He serves a steady stream of customers lining up at his van for spuds, maintaining a focus on both excellent customer service and quality products.




Ben Newman’s business has flourished, necessitating the hiring of additional staff since October. Photo: Fabio de Paola/The Guardian

Newman’s social media presence, showcased through daily TikTok videos and live streams from his van, has garnered over 44 million likes. He started using the platform to attract customers post-COVID-19, but the real breakthrough came last October, requiring him to expand his team to meet the demand.

To leverage this newfound fame, Newman is partnering with singer Tom Walker for a promotional event featuring over 2,000 jacket potatoes, possibly held in the town square.

Similarly to Binley Mega Chippy, Spudman has become a TikTok sensation, drawing curious visitors from far and wide.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Viral Video of Tesla Driver Using VR Headset Prompts US Government Alert

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said on Monday that human drivers should always use caution after videos surfaced of people driving Teslas wearing what appears to be Apple’s recently released Vision Pro headset. He said he needed to pay.


Buttigieg responded on Twitter/X to a video that has been viewed more than 24 million times that shows a Tesla driver seemingly gesturing with his hands to manipulate a virtual reality field.

Buttigieg said on Monday that Tesla’s self-driving assist features (Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, Full Self-Driving), despite their names, do not mean the vehicle is fully self-driving. said on social media.

“Be careful – all advanced driver assistance systems available today require a human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times,” Buttigieg said.

Apple’s Vision Pro was released last week and blends three-dimensional digital content with views of the outside world. Apple, which says it should never be used while operating a moving vehicle, did not respond to a request for comment.

Note: All currently available advanced driver assistance systems require the human driver to be in control and fully engaged in the driving task at all times. pic.com/OpPy36mOgC

— Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) February 5, 2024


According to Apple’s Alan Dye, the Vision Pro will work as a headset that allows users to interact with “apps and experiences” in an augmented reality (AR) version of their surroundings or in a fully immersive virtual reality (VR) space. Vice President of Human Interface Design announced in June.

“Apple Vision Pro relies solely on your eyes, hands, and voice,” Dai said in June. “Browse your system just by looking. App icons come to life when you look at them. Just tap your fingers at the same time to select them and scroll them with a light flick.”

“Apple Vision Pro will change the way we communicate, collaborate, work, and enjoy entertainment,” said Apple executive Tim Cook. But the company didn’t intend for Vision Pro to change the way people commute.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Buttigieg previously made similar comments about Tesla’s use of Autopilot. Tesla says its advanced driver features are intended for use by fully alert drivers who “keep their hands on the wheel and ready to take over at any time.”

Source: www.theguardian.com

The Skibidi Toilet: Exploring the Bizarre and Viral YouTube Series

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Alex, I read a headline that read: Russian police force investigation into YouTube's famous 'Skibidi Toilet' series. What does it mean as a set of words?

Bull Skibiddy Dop Dop Yes, yes, Steph. Skibbidi dobbidi dib dib.

I think that explains a lot in itself.

Thank you, I hate it. However, he has 135 million (!) views, so more information is needed.

Are you okay. “Skibidi Toilet” is an ongoing YouTube animated web series by Georgian content creator Alexei Gerasimov. Since launching in February, his YouTube channel his DaFuq!?Boom! is currently just outside the top 100 of his YouTube channels in the world by number of subscribers. There are currently over 70 episodes, with new videos uploaded every few days, but as the length and quality of production has increased, the period between new episodes has grown longer.

Skibidi Toilet's popularity is primarily driven by kids 13 and under, and it's the first meme to bemoan Gen Z being too old to understand. The fact that most of Skibidi Toilet's fans are young, combined with the show's disturbing aesthetic and violence, has led to a new wave of moral panic about how the internet is poisoning children's brains. It is an excellent material.

Parenting website and TikTok influencerIndonesia in particular has already warned of the clear dangers of “skibidi toilet syndrome”, and Russian authorities are also getting involved.

Skibidi Toilet Syndrome ???? What are the symptoms? please tell me.

It is not yet recognized by DSM-V. This is an umbrella term that describes what parents believe about the behavior their children exhibit after watching the show. Parents have recorded their children becoming 'obsessed' with the Skibidi Toilet. upset or angry after viewing has been restricted or prohibited; or Sits in a basket or box and acts like a skividi pottywhich seems more cute than scary, but what do I know?

Moscow police learn about father's case asked the authorities The purpose is to investigate whether the video is having a negative impact on children.Russian lawmakers are especially likely to look for signs of moral decline in internet culture – in 2015 the State Duma said laws passed Memes that mock or satirize public figures are prohibited.

What is the show actually about?

The first few episodes depict a city and its inhabitants being steadily taken over by Skibidi Toilet. Skibidi Toilet is a scary animated head that lives in a toilet and sings a mashup of Timbaland's “Give It to Me” and Visser King's “Dom Dom Yes Yes” . Cameraheads (the series' main characters, well-dressed men with head surveillance cameras) emerge as an underground resistance movement. It soon becomes an all-out war between both increasingly powerful and destructive sides.

Oddly enough, I found myself drawn into the world of Skibidi Toilet.A clear story is unfolding There are plot twists, betrayals, humor, murderous action scenes, and some moments that probably felt more than I expected..

You mentioned “a new moral panic about how the internet is harming children's brains.” Do you feel like something like this happens once every few months?

Harsh stories about how the Internet turns children into psychopaths have become recurring themes in the modern news cycle.In recent years, social media has been accused of putting children and teens at risk. eat laundry detergent, steal items from their school, and develop symptoms About Tourette syndrome.

There's also a political element. Far-right politicians in the United States and elsewhere have made ridiculous claims that TikTok is brainwashing children into questioning their sexual and gender identities, supporting Hamas, and feeding child sex traffickers. We are raising funds and running a campaign.

None of this is new. Millennials will remember clutching their pearls at strange internet ephemera such as: slender man And as a larger cultural indicator, grand theft auto video game series. This isn't to say there isn't some of his content online that children should be protected from, such as a disturbing pirated YouTube video of Peppa Pig being beaten at the dentist. But if all the content that caused a moral panic had any value, the world's children using the internet would have become children of the corn a long time ago.

So what's the verdict on Skibidi Toilet?

It's kind of fun! There are certainly parts that young children might find scary (many episodes end with Skibidi Toilet charging towards the camera), but once you get past the red-eyed toilet monster, there's a lot of talk surrounding it. Much less creepy than that. I was able to become one.

Either way, much of the best children's entertainment is weird and dark. Roald Dahl's books are full of murderous school principals and children who are mutilated in comedic ways. Hansel and Gretel had to push the witch into the oven. If you're worried about your child suddenly acting like a singing potty, take a look at Skibidi Potty together. You may even feel guilty.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Nicki Minaj’s Viral Triumph: Gag City

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Welcome to Gag City, a pink metropolis populated by stances and brands alike.

In the days leading up to the release of “Pink Friday 2,” Nicki Minaj’s fifth studio album and follow-up to her debut record “Pink Friday,” which was released on Friday, Twitter was filled with AI-generated pink tones. I was flooded with images of cityscapes. A dreamlike false utopia ruled by Minaj and her Barbs, the gag His City topped Stan Twitter and branded his account quickly becoming a viral meme that he used to market Minaj’s album. We advertised for free.

Is it a genuine Stan-driven campaign to build hype for Minaj? Is it about plants and games, both for the album and the brand? What’s clear is that the viral moment, manufactured or not, is a win for Minaj.

It all started in September when Minaj posted the album’s cover art online. The image shows Minaj floating through pink clouds in a pink subway car, set against a futuristic (and decidedly pink) cityscape.

she and her barbs

Started browsing
 Until the album was released as “Gag City”.

NBC News coverage

, refers to gay slang for being so surprised that you are speechless. Some may be gagged by witnessing amazing costume changes or hearing perfect records like “Pink Friday 2.” Ahead of the release, Stance began posting images of an AI-generated pink concrete jungle and joked that fictional characters and celebrities would come to Gag City in anticipation of Minaj’s album. One of his first articles was posted on December 1st.

know your meme

shared by a fan account
image
 A pink plane labeled “Gagg City” flies over a similarly pink skyline.

Days before the release, Minaj told fans to “prepare for landing” and teased her pink utopian description. Barbz responded with an AI-generated gag rendition of her descent into the City.

User X (formerly Twitter) began creating elaborate stories about Gag City’s residents and government. One person posted an image of the Barbs attacking the Pink House. another user It has been described as the fandom’s own January 6th.

another
 She posted an image of citizens wearing pink protesting on the streets of Gag City and asked Minaj to release the album’s tracklist. Some people may believe that Gag City is a utopia, but one account says,

I posted an image
 The film depicts the lady Minaj distributing album CDs to poor children in the “suburbs of Gag City,” hinting that Pink Society also has issues with class disparity.

A stan war has also broken out in Gag City, with fans of rival pop stars posting images of their favorite stars vying for Minaj’s top spot in the city government. In homage to Greek mythology, we have the following explanation:

I posted an image
 Trojan horse painting decorated with Beyoncé’s “Renaissance” disco motif.

Not one to miss a simple trend, brand accounts started joining in on the Gag City hype.Chile’s

I posted an image
 Rose-colored smoke is billowing from the restaurant, making you wonder if air pollution exists in Gag City as well.

wheat flakes
,

baskin robin
,

dunkin donuts
,

pizza hut
,

red lobster
,

oreo
,

bottle(??)
,

Empire State Building
 And countless people posted their own versions of Gag City.

Memes, on the other hand, tend to die out the moment brand accounts start adopting them. There’s nothing more disgusting than seeing a funny joke turned into a marketing strategy for a company. AI-generated images already have ethical issues, with critics raising concerns about AI generators being trained on artwork without the consent of the work’s artists. Artists have also criticized brands for using AI-generated art instead of commissioning work from real human artists. Although it is legal to use AI-generated art for commercial purposes, there are virtually no copyright laws related to AI.
Generally considered a frivolous move By many people in the art world.

On the other hand, this is free promotion for Minaj, and as a lifelong barb who spent her youth running the “Pink Friday” Stan account, I consider this a win.

Nicki Minaj is an artist who has been embroiled in controversy throughout her career.

Post a bad opinion about the new coronavirus vaccine

In defense of her husband Kenneth Petty,

convicted sex offender
.
She may be a great artist, but her troubled background makes her far from the family-friendly public figure brands are likely to endorse.

But in Gag City, Minaj lets the brand do all the marketing for her. “Pink Friday 2” is an artistic marvel in its own right (although I’m probably biased), but the free promotion it’s getting as a viral meme is especially amazing. In recent years, artists have sought to increase engagement with their work by making their songs trend on TikTok.

The audience began to resist.

Gag City doesn’t expect to be a summer viral song that will increase streaming numbers. While it revolves around the album being promoted, it’s stripped back enough to make it enjoyable for non-stans.

Brand Twitter has a penchant for turning fun trends into advertising opportunities, taking organic community interactions and spitting out contrived versions clearly meant to go viral. As unpleasant as that may be, in this case it’s working in Minaj’s favor. This week everyone wants to go to Gag City.

Source: techcrunch.com