It seems the direction the web is evolving is from personal blogs and websites to centralized platforms like social media and AI-powered chatbots. Will owning your own website soon become as exclusive as owning a vintage Jaguar?
The rise of AI and centralized information from individual websites and search engine results to AI platforms. Platforms like ChatGPT or Gemini now instantly deliver answers directly, eliminating the need for users to click through search results to traditional websites.
Consequently, browsing entire websites or even search results may become less necessary as quick AI-driven snippets become more popular.
Reduced website visits could accelerate the decline of traditional display ad revenue, pushing sites to subscription models. Especially on news media and other sites which used to or are still relying on advertising revenue from display ads.
Consumers might soon tire of juggling multiple monthly payments to access their favorite content leading to “subscription fatigue.
Feeding the AI Beast
Independent websites unknowingly feed AI databases valuable original content. Sites unknowingly give away valuable insights, enabling AI platforms to profit from aggregated information without clear compensation to creators.
Will we at some point be providing data directly to AI databases in hopes of their users, be it B2B or B2C finding our products and company through their questions? What will the cost structure and will it deteriorate the experience of those platforms as has happened to search engines as well?
Owning vs. Renting Your Digital Presence
Relying on third-party AI or social media platforms might seem convenient but carries real risks. You lose control over your content and become vulnerable to policy changes or algorithm updates that can drastically affect visibility. (SEO people really understand this pain)
Owning your content on your own website can bring valuable autonomy, control and also credibility in the eyes of potential customers.
Will it be more crucial than ever to maintain a distinct identity through this chaotic change of the web when we are on the other side?
Websites as Premium Brands
As centralized platforms (AI platforms, TikTok, etc.) grow dominant, owning an independent website could become a niche, premium offering, comparable to luxury goods such as classic cars. Independent sites might soon be associated with premium, curated experiences.
The Future of Personal and Niche Branding
Independent websites could increasingly differentiate through specialized content, niche focus, and personalized experiences. Audiences seeking depth, authenticity, and unique voices might prefer individual blogs or sites over generalized/personalized AI-generated content. Specific audiences may prefer the depth, authenticity, and unique voice of individual sites like hobby sites, specialty industry blogs or professional portfolios.
Conclusion
Rise of AI platforms and the shifting business model of the whole web suggest that independent websites might become luxury commodities or will they be a necessity to differentiate?
Content creators, marketers, and consumers face new choices in balancing convenience with independence of choice.
Will you manage your online presence by renting your space from AI giants or by investing in your own digital home?
