NBC will use AI to match advertisers with programming

By cutting the number of ads it shows viewers and the overall amount of ad time, NBC is hoping to meet consumer demand for fewer ads. At the same time, the network is betting on digital technology -- something a growing number of traditional TV entities are doing -- to enhance the remaining inventory so it is more relevant and by extending the reach to social media, where many viewers are actively engaged while watching their favorite programs. The higher-quality, more relevant ad inventory will likely come with a premium price tag, as NBC will still need to maintain revenue levels. Marketers will have to decide if they're willing to pay more to be surrounded by fewer commercials from other brands. NBC Universal's new AI system for matching advertisers with programming will help the network create opportunities for marketers to better target specific segments with more contextually relevant spots.