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Ask HN: Why not use AI for smart product placement in free ad-supported novels?
The idea is to have a free audiobook/ebook service for novels that makes money by subtly integrating advertising directly into the stories themselves.
Instead of interruptive ads or sponsorships, brands could be woven into a novel in a way that feels organic. A character might drink a Diet Coke, drive a Tesla, or order Starbucks, depending on the story’s context.
AI would adapt ads dynamically so they fit naturally with tone, setting, and character behavior. The ads could even change over time and be personalized for each user.
It’s basically product placement for novels but automated and scaled.
Readers get free access. Authors and publishers earn ad revenue. Brands get more immersive, less annoying exposure.
Would you read a free ad-supported version of your favorite novel?
- jjgreen 1y agoAn idea that can only come from one without a soul.
- beardyw 1y agoFavourite comment of the week.
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- ajoseps 1y agoI wouldn’t be surprised if this gets built for visual media but I think we’re past the point for the book/novel market. I think the people who are reading novels are now a niche market and would be highly antagonistic to something like this. Also this just seems so depressingly bleak. At least in the states we do have libraries where people can read books for free.
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- deltanone 1y agoNo offense but you might be a traitor to the human race if you have thoughts like these
- FiddlerClamp 1y agoYou're too late: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bulgari_Connection https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bulgari_Connection Here's an exercise - why do you think this approach failed?