The publication Appification in the Age of AI: Exploring AI App Cultures and Economies covers a wide range of AI apps, from mobile apps and chatbots like ChatGPT to business-oriented AI tools distributed via cloud marketplaces. Through analyses and case studies, the publication sheds light on the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into our daily lives through various applications: the 'appification' of AI.

AI as a cultural and economic force

In the report, the researchers emphasise the importance of critical research into apps and platforms to understand the cultural, economic, and political impact of AI technology.

"This publication shows how AI is becoming increasingly intertwined with daily life and digital infrastructures through apps," says researcher Esther Weltevrede. "By analysing AI applications in app stores, cloud marketplaces, and emerging model markets like the GPT Store, we demonstrate that AI is not just a technology but also a cultural and economic force."

Intensive data sprint with students

The studies in the report were conducted together with students from the UvA Master's programme Cultural Data & AI, in the embedded research project The Appification of AI and the concluding sprint of the course Appification: The Cultures and Economies of Apps.

"The research was conducted during an intensive data sprint in the Humanities Labs, organised in collaboration with two other electives from the Master's in New Media & Digital Culture," says Weltevrede. "It was inspiring to work intensively with students on empirical research projects for a week. We concluded the projects with a festive poster presentation."