I learned to stop worrying and love AI slop (www.technologyreview.com)

A recent wave of AI-generated videos, often dubbed “AI slop,” is transforming social media with a flood of quirky, unusual clips that blend humor, absurdity, and creativity. Enabled by advanced tools like OpenAI's Sora and Google’s Veo series, these videos feature pixelated, surreal sequences, allowing anyone with a smartphone to produce content that ranges from bizarre to oddly captivating. The phenomenon gained traction this summer with viral clips like bouncing rabbits, showcasing the potential for AI to create distinctly engaging entertainment despite initial skepticism from the creative community. As creators experiment with AI video technology, they're pushing boundaries and embracing the inherent weirdness of these tools, which increasingly handle complex concepts and visuals. This shift in perception suggests that AI is not merely about crafting hyper-realistic content but also about exploring new forms of expression that resonate with broader audiences. While the fast-paced nature of AI creation raises concerns about misuse—including the emergence of racially insensitive content—many artists are using this technology for inventive storytelling and social commentary. Overall, the rise of AI slop indicates a significant evolution in how generative AI impacts culture, creativity, and social engagement.