Faux Jewels and Slimming Belts: Why Shopping on TikTok Is a Lot Like QVC - The New York Times

kept by eddie nov 26, 25

TikTok Shop's U.S. growth mirrors QVC's model, using influencer ads that resemble TV infomercials to sell goods.

An Amish Avatar and an A.I. Monk Are Pitching Supplements on Social Media - The New York Times
Fake AI-generated influencers, such as an Amish avatar and a monk, are increasingly used to pitch supplements on Instagram and TikTok.
also on TikTok, #internet-culture, #social-media, #consumer-technology
Slop is everywhere for those with eyes to see
Social media platforms' algorithmic designs maximize consumption, resulting in an overwhelming prevalence of low-quality AI-generated content, or 'slop'.
also on TikTok, #internet-culture, #social-media
Introducing shopping research in ChatGPT
OpenAI launches shopping research in ChatGPT, a conversational tool that researches products and builds personalized buyer's guides using GPT-5 mini.
also on #ecommerce, #retail, #consumer-technology
Amazon launches 30-minute delivery across the US
Amazon launches Amazon Now, a 30-minute delivery service for thousands of items across dozens of U.S. cities, undercutting competitors on price for Prime members.
also on #ecommerce, #retail