Lessons from a Viral GenAI Meme

Bi-weekly news commentary

Hello friend,

How are you? I hope you’re doing well.

The gist:

AI is maybe 2.5 years old, but each new capability spike keeps it forever fresh - a novelty ripe for experimentation. If you go through what is known now as “brain rot” (word of the year)- aimless scrolling on Instagram or TikTok - you likely came across new GenAI visuals with unreal quality. All it takes is a textual prompt, and the latest AI generators can now create realistic videos that can come in various shapes; from animating classic paintings, young-to-old transformations, mashing up animals and people, celebrities in inconceivable settings and outfits, historical events, and nonsense viral memes. Regarding the latter, the latest craze is an Italian sub-genre hashtagged #italianbrainrot. The low barriers to entry by non-designers have opened the floodgates to new, fantasy design sensibilities. At this rate, we can’t even imagine where this is all heading yet. Temporary fad? Or a new art genre that will likely evolve alongside the rapid advancements.

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You’ll learn more about this fascinating viral meme that, by now, has garnered over 3 billion views. And actionable tips for your strategy.