OpenAI CEO Sam Altman sparks debate on 'dead internet theory' with rise of AI-generated accounts on social media.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has weighed in on the "dead internet theory," suggesting that the rise of large language model (LLM)-run accounts on social media may hold some truth. Altman notes that there are "really a lot" of LLM-run accounts, sparking debate about the theory's claims of human voices being displaced by bots and algorithm-driven content. The theory argues that governments and corporations may intentionally curate content and amplify artificial voices.

Meta has been at the forefront of leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to transform its advertising strategies, demonstrating significant financial gains and strategic foresight. As of Q2 2025, Meta’s AI-driven ad strategies resulted in a 21% year-over-year increase in ad revenue, reaching $46.6 billion [1]. This substantial growth is accompanied by a $65–72 billion investment in AI research and development (R&D) [1].

The success of Meta’s AI initiatives is underpinned by its ability to harness AI for hyper-efficient ad delivery. Systems like Andromeda, an AI-driven ad optimization platform, have significantly boosted conversion rates on Instagram and Facebook by refining targeting, timing, and creative relevance [1]. This has translated into a 36% year-over-year increase in net income for Q2 2025 [1].

The broader industry trend indicates that AI-driven ad platforms now account for over 60% of global digital ad spending, with Meta’s dominance in this space accelerating its market share gains [1]. By automating tasks such as bid adjustments and audience segmentation, Meta has reduced the need for manual intervention, enabling advertisers to achieve higher returns with lower operational costs.

Meta’s aggressive AI monetization strategy is also supported by strategic investments in infrastructure and talent. The company has allocated a significant portion of its 2025 R&D budget to expand data centers like Prometheus and Hyperion, which power its AI models [1]. Additionally, Meta’s $14.3 billion acquisition of Scale AI in 2025 has bolstered its capabilities in training high-quality AI models, ensuring sustained competitive advantage [1].

Beyond ad optimization, Meta is pioneering monetization strategies for AI-generated content. In 2025, the company introduced rules allowing creators to sell AI-generated digital products via platforms like Facebook Shop and Instagram affiliate marketing, provided they adhere to transparency policies [2]. This move taps into a rapidly growing market: AI-generated content is projected to contribute $12 billion to Meta’s ecosystem by 2026, according to internal estimates [2].

Meta’s vision for the future is one of full automation. The company aims to fully automate advertising with AI by 2026, a move that has sparked debates about the potential loss of human control in ad performance [5]. However, proponents argue that AI’s ability to process vast datasets in real time will outperform human decision-making, particularly in dynamic markets.

Investor sentiment reflects this optimism. Meta’s stock has gained 28% year-to-date in 2025, driven by confidence in its AI-driven monetization playbook [1]. Analysts at Goldman Sachs highlight that Meta’s ability to balance short-term revenue growth with long-term AI R&D is a key differentiator in an increasingly competitive tech landscape [1].

Conclusion: AI as the New Currency

Meta’s AI-driven advertising evolution is a masterclass in leveraging technology for monetization. By integrating AI into every layer of its advertising stack—from infrastructure to content creation—the company is not only sustaining its dominance in digital ads but also building a foundation for future AI-led revenue streams. For investors, the lesson is clear: in 2025, AI is no longer a cost center but a currency, and Meta is leading the charge.

References:
[1] Meta's AI-Driven Ad Monetization and Strategic Shift [https://www.ainvest.com/news/meta-ai-driven-ad-monetization-strategic-shift-fueling-long-term-ambitions-reshaping-investor-sentiment-2508/]
[2] Meta's AI Content Rules & Monetization Guide (2025) [https://jackrighteous.com/en-us/blogs/scale-with-shopify-blog/meta-ai-monetization-rules-2025?srsltid=AfmBOopwPfoPjkdJIZp1aU2r_NiwwRzSx6Ks6m05lIHmeEA63I1lgQj4]