{"id":11965,"date":"2024-12-27T16:45:14","date_gmt":"2024-12-27T16:45:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/"},"modified":"2024-12-27T16:45:14","modified_gmt":"2024-12-27T16:45:14","slug":"what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is Generative AI and How Does It Work?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Generative AI refers to technology that uses machine learning models to create content. Machine learning models are computer programs that seek to replicate aspects of human intelligence.<\/p>\n<p>These models can produce various content formats, including code, text, visuals, audio, and video.<\/p>\n<p>Various programs have the ability to learn almost any kind of information.<\/p>\n<p>For example, different generative <a title=\"AI Models: Everything You Need to Know\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-models\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI models<\/a> can understand coding, visual, scientific, and human languages.<\/p>\n<p>OpenAI\u2019s <a title=\"ChatGPT for SEO: Ultimate Guide, Tips &amp; Prompts | Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/chatgpt-for-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT<\/a> is a popular example of a model that understands and produces textual content.<\/p>\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll explore how this and other gen AI tools work.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#How_Generative_AI_Works\" >How Generative AI Works<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Step_1_Users_Provide_Prompts\" >Step 1: Users Provide Prompts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Step_2_Generative_AI_Models_Produce_Content\" >Step 2: Generative AI Models Produce Content<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Gen_AI_vs_Other_Types_of_AI\" >Gen AI vs. Other Types of AI<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Popular_Gen_AI_Tools\" >Popular Gen AI Tools<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#ChatGPT\" >ChatGPT<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Claude\" >Claude<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Gemini\" >Gemini<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Microsoft_Copilot\" >Microsoft Copilot<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#DALL-E\" >DALL-E<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Midjourney\" >Midjourney<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#What_Can_You_Use_Generative_AI_for\" >What Can You Use Generative AI for?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Marketing\" >Marketing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Advertising\" >Advertising<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Media\" >Media<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Coding\" >Coding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Healthcare\" >Healthcare<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Automotive\" >Automotive<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Data_Synthesis\" >Data Synthesis<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Benefits_and_Limitations_of_Generative_AI\" >Benefits and Limitations of Generative AI<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Benefits_of_Generative_AI\" >Benefits of Generative AI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Limitations_of_Generative_AI_Tools\" >Limitations of Generative AI Tools<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Concerns_Surrounding_Generative_AI\" >Concerns Surrounding Generative AI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#A_History_of_the_Development_of_Generative_AI\" >A History of the Development of Generative AI<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#What_Does_Generative_AI_Mean_for_the_Future\" >What Does Generative AI Mean for the Future?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/27\/what-is-generative-ai-and-how-does-it-work-2\/#Use_Advanced_AI_Tools_to_Improve_Your_Content\" >Use Advanced AI Tools to Improve Your Content<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Generative_AI_Works\"><\/span>How Generative AI Works<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Gen AI uses libraries of existing material to produce original content. Here\u2019s how the process works.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Users_Provide_Prompts\"><\/span>Step 1: Users Provide Prompts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The technology generates content based on user prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the tool you use, you may be able to enter freeform, text-based prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Suppose you want to generate a description for a new ecommerce item.<\/p>\n<p>A simple <a title=\"234 ChatGPT Prompts (&amp; How to Write Your Own)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/chatgpt-prompts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT prompt<\/a> could look like this:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cWrite a 100-word product description for [insert product details]. Use a friendly, upbeat tone of voice.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Some AI tools use parameters rather than freeform input.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Semrush Ecommerce Booster\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/apps\/ecommerce-booster\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ecommerce Booster<\/a> app generates ad descriptions based on keywords, text length, readability, tone of voice, and format settings.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-ecommerce-booster\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.92428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ecommerce-booster.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Generative_AI_Models_Produce_Content\"><\/span>Step 2: Generative AI Models Produce Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once the system receives the user\u2019s prompt, it uses machine learning models to generate content.<\/p>\n<p>These models train using libraries that may contain billions of pieces of existing content.<\/p>\n<p>As they train, the models learn the components and structures of this existing content. Then, they use what they\u2019ve learned to generate \u201cnew\u201d material. (It\u2019s not truly new as it\u2019s based entirely on existing content.)<\/p>\n<p>The mechanics of the content generation process vary, depending on the type of output.<\/p>\n<p>Some of the most common models include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Large language models (LLMs):<\/strong> Algorithms that use large data sets to predict the next output (word) in a piece of content\u2014typically used to generate textual content<\/li>\n<li><strong>Generative adversarial networks (GANs):<\/strong> Deep learning systems that use two competing neural networks to produce new output, mostly for visual or audio content generation<\/li>\n<li><strong>Variational autoencoders (VAEs):<\/strong> Neural network systems that encode and decode input to create new output, often to generate visual or code content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gen_AI_vs_Other_Types_of_AI\"><\/span>Gen AI vs. Other Types of AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The standard generative AI meaning doesn\u2019t include all types of artificial intelligence.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike gen AI, so-called \u201cnormal\u201d AI analyzes and synthesizes data rather than generating new outputs.<\/p>\n<p>Here are two other types of AI:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Conversational AI:<\/strong> Uses natural language processing (NLP) techniques to analyze human language, understand what users are saying or typing, and provide relevant responses. This type of AI is most common in chatbots and <a title=\"14 Best AI Assistants for Marketers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-assistant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI assistants<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Predictive AI:<\/strong> Analyzes historical data to anticipate outcomes from specific events and suggest actionable steps. This kind of AI is common with data analysts who need to manage risk and make data-driven decisions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Popular_Gen_AI_Tools\"><\/span>Popular Gen AI Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Now that we\u2019ve covered a comprehensive generative AI definition, let\u2019s take a closer look at some of the most widely used gen AI tools.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ChatGPT\"><\/span>ChatGPT<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>ChatGPT is an AI chatbot developed by OpenAI that produces text responses to prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"chatgpt-response\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.27571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chatgpt-response.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p><a title=\"What Can ChatGPT Do? How To Use It + Examples\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/what-can-chatgpt-do\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT can do<\/a> a range of tasks, like creating lists, producing code, and answering questions.<\/p>\n<p>It also generates outlines and creative content.<\/p>\n<p>How does ChatGPT work?<\/p>\n<p>It uses generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) technology to produce human-like responses to text prompts.<\/p>\n<p>OpenAI also offers custom GPTs\u2014versions of ChatGPT that perform specific tasks using personalized prompts.<\/p>\n<p>For example, you could create a custom GPT to edit written content to reflect your brand voice.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"ChatGPT for SEO: Ultimate Guide, Tips &amp; Prompts | Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/chatgpt-for-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ChatGPT for SEO: Ultimate Guide, Tips &amp; Prompts<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Claude\"><\/span>Claude<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Like ChatGPT, Claude is an AI chatbot that generates text responses to prompts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"claude-response\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/claude-response.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Claude can also analyze the content you upload (like a spreadsheet or a PDF).<\/p>\n<p>It then provides summaries or answers questions based on your prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Claude can assist with tasks like <a title=\"AI Copywriting: Top 4 Tools and Best Ways to Use Them\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-copywriting\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI copywriting<\/a> and content generation, too.<\/p>\n<p>In your prompt, you can include guidelines for the format and style of content you want to create.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Gemini\"><\/span>Gemini<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Similar to ChatGPT and Claude, Gemini (formerly <a title=\"Google Bard: Uses, Limitations, and Tips for More Helpful Answers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/google-bard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Bard<\/a>) is another AI chatbot that provides text responses to prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"gemini-response\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.34428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/gemini-response.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>As a Google app, Gemini is integrated with many Google products. This lets you verify its responses via Google Search with one click.<\/p>\n<p>You can also prompt Gemini to summarize files in Google Drive, like a virtual assistant.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Microsoft_Copilot\"><\/span>Microsoft Copilot<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another AI chatbot, Microsoft Copilot generates multimedia responses to prompts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"microsoft-copilot-response\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/microsoft-copilot-response.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Along with producing a text answer, it shows you relevant images and links from Bing\u2019s search results.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DALL-E\"><\/span>DALL-E<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><a title=\"DALL-E 2 by OpenAI: How To Create Digital Art in a Few Seconds\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/dall-e-by-openai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DALL-E<\/a> is a text-to-image generative AI tool developed by OpenAI (creators of ChatGPT) that generates images based on prompts. Like this one:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"dall-e-image-generation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/dall-e-image-generation.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In addition to describing the contents of the image, prompts can also request a style.<\/p>\n<p>The more specific and detailed your prompt, the more likely the image will meet your needs.<\/p>\n<p>DALL-E uses a diffusion model to analyze images and look for patterns in the components.<\/p>\n<p>Then, the image generation app uses what it\u2019s learned to piece together its own AI image.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> A diffusion model adds random noise (variations) to available training data. Then, it reverses the process to recover the data and create new combinations of information.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Midjourney\"><\/span>Midjourney<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Midjourney is a text-to-image generator that uses diffusion models and LLMs to create realistic content.<\/p>\n<p>Like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"midjourney-image\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.51571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/midjourney-image.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Compared to DALL-E, Midjourney\u2019s prompts are often much more complex.<\/p>\n<p>For example, prompts typically need to include things like style and composition guidelines to get the best results.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike many other generative AI tools, Midjourney isn\u2019t a standalone app but a Discord bot. To use it, you\u2019ll need to join the Midjourney Discord server and prompt the bot.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Can_You_Use_Generative_AI_for\"><\/span>What Can You Use Generative AI for?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here are the most common applications of generative artificial intelligence today.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Marketing\"><\/span>Marketing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Generative AI tools let you quickly brainstorm marketing campaign ideas as well as draft blog posts and articles.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"AI Marketing Software: Top 14 Tools for Do-It-All Marketers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-marketing-software\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI marketing software<\/a> also helps with rewriting content and applying a consistent tone of voice.<\/p>\n<p>For example, a tool like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"ContentShake AI: Content Writing Tool | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/apps\/contentshake\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ContentShake AI<\/a> generates written and visual content in seconds.<\/p>\n<p>Even better?<\/p>\n<p>It guides you through the whole process\u2014from ideation to publication.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to use it:<\/p>\n<p>Head to the app and click \u201c<strong>My own idea<\/strong>\u201d from the main dashboard.<\/p>\n<p>Then, enter your topic and hit \u201c<strong>Start writing<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-contentshake-ai-dashboard\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-contentshake-ai-dashboard.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Review the suggested title, target keywords, word count, tone of voice, and readability level.<\/p>\n<p>Then click \u201c<strong>Create article<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-contentshake-ai-prompt\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-contentshake-ai-prompt.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Read through the AI-generated article.<\/p>\n<p>Hit \u201c<strong>Publish<\/strong>\u201d to proceed as is or \u201c<strong>Go to regenerate<\/strong>\u201d to start again.<\/p>\n<p>To edit and optimize the content manually (which we recommend you do), click \u201c<strong>Go to editor<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-contentshake-ai-results\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.69142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-contentshake-ai-results.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Use ContentShake AI\u2019s preset prompts to speed up the optimization process.<\/p>\n<p>You can even enter your custom prompts in the chat window.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-contentshake-ai-edit\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-contentshake-ai-edit.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Another Semrush tool, the <a title=\"Semrush SEO Writing Assistant\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/swa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO Writing Assistant<\/a>, includes AI features to help you write online marketing content faster.<\/p>\n<p>It also checks the SEO potential of your work.<\/p>\n<p>Head to the tool and click the \u201c<strong>+ Analyze new text<\/strong>\u201d button on the tool dashboard.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-dashboard\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.46714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-dashboard.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you\u2019ve used the tool before, click the \u201c<strong>Set a new goal<\/strong>\u201d drop-down.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"set-new-goal\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.50793650793651\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/set-new-goal.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you\u2019re using this tool for the first time, input the keyword you intend to target and click \u201c<strong>Get recommendations<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-keyword\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.66571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-keyword.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Draft or outline your content.<\/p>\n<p>Then, use SEO Writing Assistant\u2019s AI features to improve your writing.<\/p>\n<p>Select any phrase, sentence, or paragraph and click \u201c<strong>Expand<\/strong>\u201d to elaborate on those sections.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-expand\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-expand.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Review the content for accuracy and style.<\/p>\n<p>Then, click \u201c<strong>Accept<\/strong>,\u201d \u201c<strong>Reject<\/strong>,\u201d or \u201c<strong>Try again<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-results\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-results.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Alternatively, open the \u201c<strong>Smart Writer<\/strong>\u201d drop-down and select \u201c<strong>Rephraser<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Input your text and choose one of the four optimization options.<\/p>\n<p>Then, click \u201c<strong>Rephrase<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-rephraser\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-rephraser.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Review the AI-generated ideas and click \u201c<strong>Rephrase<\/strong>\u201d again to generate more.<\/p>\n<p>Use the copy button to choose where to paste the text, or click \u201c<strong>Replace and close<\/strong>\u201d to insert it where the cursor is positioned.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-rephraser-results\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-rephraser-results.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Use the AI-powered Smart Writer to elaborate on existing content.<\/p>\n<p>Write at least a few sentences.<\/p>\n<p>Then, click \u201c<strong>Compose<\/strong>\u201d to generate more copy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-compose\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-compose.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Select the \u201c<strong>Ask AI<\/strong>\u201d feature to submit custom questions or prompts.<\/p>\n<p>Then, click \u201c<strong>Ask<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-seo-writing-assistant-ask-ai\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.45428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-seo-writing-assistant-ask-ai.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>As you create your content, keep an eye on the score in the upper right corner.<\/p>\n<p>This score factors in readability, tone of voice, originality, and SEO. The higher the score, the better optimized your content is and the easier it is to read.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Advertising\"><\/span>Advertising<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>You can take advantage of <a title=\"AI in Advertising: A Game Plan and Tools to Get Started\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-advertising\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI advertising<\/a> tools to generate both copy and creatives for your paid promotions.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"AI Writing Assistant\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/apps\/ai-writing-assistant\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Writing Assistant<\/a> allows you to compose ad headlines quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Open the app from the <a title=\"Semrush App Center\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/apps\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush App Center<\/a> and select \u201c<strong>All Tools<\/strong>\u201d &gt; \u201c<strong>Social Media &amp; Ads<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Then, choose either \u201c<strong>Facebook Headlines<\/strong>\u201d or \u201c<strong>Google Ads Headlines<\/strong>\u201d to generate ad headlines.<\/p>\n<p>Or \u201c<strong>Facebook Primary Text<\/strong>\u201d or \u201c<strong>Google Ads Description<\/strong>\u201d for ad description text.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-ai-writing-assistant-options\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ai-writing-assistant-options.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, select a language, creativity level, and tone of voice.<\/p>\n<p>Next, input your audience and product name details and write a short product description.<\/p>\n<p>Click \u201c<strong>Generate<\/strong>\u201d when you\u2019re ready.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-ai-writing-assistant-prompt\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ai-writing-assistant-prompt.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Review the results and save any headlines you like\u2014or copy and paste them directly into your ad platform.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-ai-writing-assistant-results\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.5\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ai-writing-assistant-results.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>To generate complete ad creatives, open <a title=\"AdCreative.ai\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/apps\/adcreative-ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s AdCreative.ai<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Enter your domain or landing page and click \u201c<strong>Import Brand<\/strong>\u201d to add brand elements.<\/p>\n<p>The app automatically identifies your brand name, logo, and colors.<\/p>\n<p>Review them and click the \u201c<strong>Create Brand<\/strong>\u201d button.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-create-brand\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-create-brand.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> If you\u2019ve already set up a brand, click \u201c<strong>Create a Brand<\/strong>\u201d from the \u201cBrand Setup\u201d section to add a new one to your dashboard.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>From the list of asset types, select \u201c<strong>Ad Creatives<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-choose-asset-selection\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.57285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-choose-asset-selection.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Choose the creative format that best fits the advertising platform and hit \u201c<strong>Next Step<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-select-creative-format\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-select-creative-format.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Click the \u201c<strong>Generate Texts<\/strong>\u201d button to create text with AI.<\/p>\n<p>Then click \u201c<strong>Next Step<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-generate-text\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-generate-text.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Input some information about the content you want to generate.<\/p>\n<p>Then click \u201c<strong>Save &amp; Generate<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"generate-text\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.49857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/generate-text.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Upload a background image, crop it if necessary, and enter a project name (optional).<\/p>\n<p>You can also use the app\u2019s image search engine to source background images.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, click \u201c<strong>Generate<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-generate-ad-creatives\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1771428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-generate-ad-creatives.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Check the box below each of the AI-generated assets you want to use, and hit the \u201c<strong>Download<\/strong>\u201d button.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"semrush-adcreative-ai-assets\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.82571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-adcreative-ai-assets.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can now upload the digital assets to your ad platform and set up your ad campaign.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Media\"><\/span>Media<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Film, animation, and gaming studios use generative AI to produce creative content more efficiently.<\/p>\n<p>With advanced AI tools, they can generate realistic 3D models, avatars, and video content.<\/p>\n<p>For example, large gaming studios can use gen AI to create more photorealistic characters or speed up game design workflows.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Coding\"><\/span>Coding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Software developers are able to code programs and applications with generative AI tools like <a title=\"GitHub Copilot \u00b7 Your AI pair programmer\" href=\"https:\/\/github.com\/features\/copilot\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">GitHub Copilot<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The benefits include writing more consistent code in various programming languages, debugging code faster, and improving developer efficiency.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Healthcare\"><\/span>Healthcare<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Generative AI models serve the medical industry across a wide range of applications.<\/p>\n<p>For example, medical researchers use gen AI for genome sequencing and drug research. While health practitioners use them for medical imaging and assigning accurate medical codes.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Automotive\"><\/span>Automotive<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Auto manufacturers use AI models to improve vehicle design and implement in-vehicle AI-powered virtual assistants.<\/p>\n<p>Generative design inspired <a title=\"AI Design: Artificial Intelligence Gets Creative | BMW.com\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bmw.com\/en\/design\/ai-design-and-digital-art.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BMW\u2019s \u201cAlive Geometry\u201d<\/a> in the Vision Next 100 concept car, which enables shape-shifting parts that interact with the driver.<\/p>\n<p>[ss: bmw-vision-next.png]<\/p>\n<p><strong>Image Source:<\/strong> <a title=\"The ideas behind the BMW VISION NEXT 100 as explained by BMW designers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bmwblog.com\/2016\/03\/12\/ideas-behind-bmw-vision-next-100-explained-bmw-designers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BMW<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Many manufacturers also provide basic customer service using AI before involving human agents.<\/p>\n<p>A <a title=\"Early Generative AI and its impact on Automotive industry...\" href=\"https:\/\/www2.deloitte.com\/cz\/en\/pages\/technology\/articles\/early-generative-ai-and-its-impact-on-automotive-industry.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2023 Deloitte report<\/a> anticipates that generative AI will lead to a 20% equipment availability increase and a 10% annual maintenance cost decrease for the automotive industry.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Data_Synthesis\"><\/span>Data Synthesis<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s impossible for generative AI models to learn or improve their processes and computations without training data.<\/p>\n<p>However, training data doesn\u2019t necessarily exist for every possible industry or use case.<\/p>\n<p>To resolve this issue, generative models can themselves produce synthetic data for training purposes.<\/p>\n<p>They also effectively address challenges and ethical concerns that may otherwise prevent industries from using generative AI.<\/p>\n<p>For example, gen AI tools may create larger datasets for underrepresented groups. Or generate datasets that offer a more fair version of the original data.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_and_Limitations_of_Generative_AI\"><\/span>Benefits and Limitations of Generative AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>To set appropriate expectations for any AI-generated content you produce, you should familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of using these models.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits_of_Generative_AI\"><\/span>Benefits of Generative AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Produces <strong>almost any type of digital media<\/strong> based on a brief prompt<\/li>\n<li>Creates different types of content in a <strong>consistent style or format<\/strong> defined by the user<\/li>\n<li>Gives individuals and teams of any size the capacity to create <strong>large volumes of content<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Allows users to <strong>save time and money<\/strong> on the content creation process<\/li>\n<li><strong>Simplifies lengthy content or expands on short content<\/strong> in seconds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example prompt using ChatGPT to tighten up a very wordy explanation of the law of inertia.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"chatgpt-prompt-wordy-explanation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3771428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chatgpt-prompt-wordy-explanation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>As compelling as these benefits are, they don\u2019t necessarily mean anyone should create <strong>exclusively<\/strong> AI-generated content.<\/p>\n<p>Human feedback, fact-checking, and manual editing can help ensure higher quality and improved accuracy.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"15 Benefits of ChatGPT (+8 Disadvantages)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/benefits-chatgpt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">15 Benefits of ChatGPT (+8 Disadvantages)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Limitations_of_Generative_AI_Tools\"><\/span>Limitations of Generative AI Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The main limitations of generative AI tools are that they:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>May reflect biases or inaccuracies present in their training content<\/li>\n<li>May not cite original sources or attribute concepts accurately<\/li>\n<li>Offer insufficient transparency into their technology and methods<\/li>\n<li>Can\u2019t think independently or generate new ideas<\/li>\n<li>Lack firsthand experience and personal opinions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Here\u2019s what happened when we asked Notion AI to generate an opinion about the TV show \u201cFamily Guy\u201d:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"notion-ai-reply\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.69857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/notion-ai-reply.png\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\"><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Although these limitations may seem daunting, they shouldn\u2019t prevent you from using generative AI applications to improve your business\u2019s efficiency.<\/p>\n<p>Then, use your human intelligence to detect AI-written content bias, ethical considerations, and attribution issues. And tweak the content as necessary.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Concerns_Surrounding_Generative_AI\"><\/span>Concerns Surrounding Generative AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Although gen AI can certainly be used for good, it has the potential to create serious concerns.<\/p>\n<p>As an example, <strong>deepfakes<\/strong> are digitally altered photos or videos that make the subject appear to be another person.<\/p>\n<p>They can be used to maliciously propagate false information.<\/p>\n<p>Although deepfake detectors can increasingly identify images and videos that simulate another person, foolproof methods to alleviate these concerns don\u2019t yet exist.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, it\u2019s essential to analyze content closely for anomalies. And to adhere to security protocols to protect sensitive information.<\/p>\n<p>Because generative models create content that emulates existing visual, audio, and textual patterns, they have the power to mislead.<\/p>\n<p>Particularly, their ability to mimic human language can be used for <strong>social engineering<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The <a title=\"Cybersecurity: social engineering - Consilium\" href=\"https:\/\/www.consilium.europa.eu\/en\/policies\/cybersecurity\/cybersecurity-social-engineering\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">European Union Agency for Cybersecurity<\/a> defines this as:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p>\u201cAll techniques aimed at talking a target into revealing specific information or performing a specific action for illegitimate reasons.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>For example, gen AI models can encourage people to disclose sensitive information. Or compromise either personal privacy or their company\u2019s security.<\/p>\n<p>And as generative AI becomes more advanced, the infrastructure these models require may reach an unsustainable scale.<\/p>\n<p>Keeping up with computational demands and coming up with the capital necessary to fund it is an ongoing concern for AI model developers.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_History_of_the_Development_of_Generative_AI\"><\/span>A History of the Development of Generative AI<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Generative AI has consistently made headlines since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022 (and other foundation models shortly after).<\/p>\n<p>However, the technology existed long before this date.<\/p>\n<p>We list some major generative AI advancements in the table below.<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th colspan=\"2\" scope=\"col\">A Brief History of Generative AI<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1947<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>Intelligent machinery<\/strong><br \/>\nIn one of the first recorded references to artificial intelligence, Alan Turing used the term \u201cintelligent machinery\u201d in a research paper. The study explored whether machines could spot rational behavior.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1950<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>Turing Test<\/strong><br \/>\nTuring developed the Turing Test, which evaluated conversations between machines and human brains to identify machine responses.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1956<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>Dartmouth AI conference<\/strong><br \/>\nThe Dartmouth Summer Research Project on Artificial Intelligence, considered the birth of AI, brought together AI experts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1961<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>ELIZA chatbot<\/strong><br \/>\nJoseph Weizenbaum developed the ELIZA chatbot, a psychotherapy program that could converse with humans. And one of the first examples of generative AI.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1980s<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>RNN architecture<\/strong><br \/>\nSeveral researchers advanced recurrent neural network (RNN) architecture. Furthering the development of this bidirectional artificial neural network.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">1997<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>LSTM networks<\/strong><br \/>\nJosef Hochreiter and J\u00fcrgen Schmidhuber invented long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, significantly improving the accuracy of AI models.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">2014<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>GANs and VAEs<\/strong><br \/>\nThe development of GANs and VAEs dramatically advanced generative AI technology.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">2017<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>Transformer models<\/strong><br \/>\nNewly developed transformer models allowed gen AI systems to create natural language text for the first time.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">2018<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>OpenAI GPT<\/strong><br \/>\nOpenAI released GPT, a neural network that could generate human-like text and converse with users.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">2021<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>OpenAI DALL-E<\/strong><br \/>\nOpenAI introduced DALL-E to generate digital images from prompts through deep learning.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">2022<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"\"><strong>OpenAI ChatGPT, Midjourney beta<\/strong><br \/>\nOpenAI launched ChatGPT (also known as GPT-3.5), a transformer-based model that one million users adopted in only five days.<br \/>\nText-to-image generator Midjourney launched in beta the same year.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_Generative_AI_Mean_for_the_Future\"><\/span>What Does Generative AI Mean for the Future?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>While generative AI\u2019s timeline is relatively long, many significant developments have happened in a few short years.<\/p>\n<p>Given this rapid evolution, it\u2019s reasonable to expect that gen AI will continue to develop quickly.<\/p>\n<p>So, what will AI look like in the future? And how could it affect your industry?<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few developments to monitor:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Increased adoption of generative AI tools:<\/strong> In many industries, companies are already pressuring leaders to implement AI tools. A <a title=\"Customer-Focused Leaders Look to AI for a Competitive Advantage - Qualtrics\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qualtrics.com\/news\/customer-focused-leaders-look-to-ai-for-a-competitive-advantage\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Qualtrics<\/a> survey of customer experience professionals revealed that 75% feel the pressure to use generative AI for business.<\/li>\n<li><strong>More advanced AI prompts:<\/strong> The more companies adopt generative AI strategies, the more advanced their prompting skills are likely to become. With extensive testing, users will probably develop more specific, nuanced prompts for producing higher-quality content.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Higher volume of AI-generated content:<\/strong> As more individuals and business processes use gen AI tools, the amount of AI-generated content will increase. <a title=\"The Benefits and Limitations of Generative AI: Harvard Ex...\" href=\"https:\/\/www.harvardonline.harvard.edu\/blog\/benefits-limitations-generative-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Harvard Professor Latanya Sweeney<\/a> predicts 90% of online content creation will no longer be by humans.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Improved AI detection:<\/strong> As AI evolves, AI detection tools may become more sophisticated. Increasingly advanced tools will better address issues with cybersecurity, deepfakes, and other growing concerns\u2014potentially making <a title=\"9 Strategies to Use Content AI in Your Workflow\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/content-ai\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI content<\/a> more credible.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"15 Must-Watch AI Trends to Empower Your Business in 2024\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/ai-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">15 Must-Watch AI Trends to Empower Your Business<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Advanced_AI_Tools_to_Improve_Your_Content\"><\/span>Use Advanced AI Tools to Improve Your Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Whether you\u2019re just getting started with generative AI or looking for ways to level up your AI skills, you need the right tools at your disposal.<\/p>\n<p>Tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and Semrush\u2019s AI-powered suite are game-changers for content creation.<\/p>\n<p>Not sure which one to pick?<\/p>\n<p>Check out our in-depth guide to the <a title=\"5 Top AI Writing Generators: Features, Pricing, Pros &amp; Cons\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-ai-content-generator-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">top 5 AI writing generators<\/a>, where we break down the features, pros and cons, and pricing of the best tools on the market.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/generative-ai\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">What Is Generative AI and How Does It Work?<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Generative AI refers to technology that uses machine learning models to create content. Machine learning models are computer programs that seek to replicate aspects of human intelligence. These models can produce various content formats, including code, text, visuals, audio, and video. Various programs have the ability to learn almost any kind of information. For example, different generative AI models can understand coding, visual, scientific, and human languages. OpenAI\u2019s ChatGPT is a popular example of a model that understands and produces textual content. In this article, we\u2019ll [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":11966,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8,52],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11965","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko","category-marketing-blogs"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ecommerce-booster-XUd6Ah-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-ecommerce-booster-XUd6Ah-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11965","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11965"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11965\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11966"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11965"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11965"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11965"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}