Media Gene Expands Advertising Value Through Surging AI Access Demand

Introduction
Media Gene, a subsidiary of TNL Media Gene (NASDAQ: TNMG), recently announced a remarkable increase in access demand for its key digital media websites, powered by AI data licensing platform TollBit. The data, covering the fourth quarter of 2025 to the first quarter of 2026, indicates a significant shift in how users are seeking information, transitioning from traditional human access to AI-driven interactions. This development is reaffirming Media Gene's influence and escalating its advertising value in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

The Dawn of the AI Search Era
As generative AI technology advances, the structure of web traffic is undergoing a significant transformation. Not only are users still accessing information through traditional means; AI is introducing a new dynamic in how content is consumed. This change is impacting the media business model, propelling the industry into a pivotal transformation phase. Media Gene is keenly aware of the need to adapt and is proactively developing models to coexist with AI-driven strategies, understanding that this era requires a reevaluation of the media's value by advertisers and the market.

True Influence in the Age of AI
The metrics for media evaluation are shifting profoundly. Beyond mere page views (PV), the contemporary standard emphasizes the importance of reliable information, which embodies what is now defined as “true influence.” In order for generative AI to provide accurate high-quality responses, original content with reliability and uniqueness is essential. This demand aligns closely with what users truly seek, establishing a new benchmark for 'true influence' in the AI era.

The significant draw that Media Gene's digital media is experiencing, particularly from AI, can be attributed to its painstaking focus on generating articles that emphasize trustworthiness. The editorial team and writers put a premium on expressing genuine human experiences and emotions in their content. Every piece goes through human checks, even when translated, ensuring that quality is paramount. Such diligence has positioned Media Gene's outputs as highly valuable learning and reference data for AI, reflected in the impressive performance metrics recorded by TollBit.

Remarkable Growth Across Major Media
The primary media operated by Media Gene are witnessing robust growth trends, especially when it comes to AI-originated access. For instance:

- Shirabee (Entertainment category): Experienced explosive growth with a 103.8% increase compared to the previous period, ranking in the top 4.9% within its category and 10.1% across Asia.
- Business Insider Japan (News category): Saw a 4.4% increase, placing it in the top 11.6% in Asia.
- Lifehacker Japan (Lifestyle category): Enjoyed an 11.4% growth.
- Roomie (Lifestyle category): Recorded a steady 19.2% increase.
- DigiDay Japan (Business/Finance category): Notable growth of 43.8% compared to its previous performance.

Furthermore, Media Gene holds a distinguished position among Asian publishers using TollBit, ranking in the top 8% based on the overall demand for access. Notably, their lifestyle category, led by the recipe site iCook, has demonstrated explosive growth, outpacing competitors' growth rates by almost tenfold. These insights objectively highlight that Media Gene's media output remains a highly valuable resource in the AI-driven era.

Comments from CEO Motoko Ikeda
Motoko Ikeda, the CEO of Media Gene, commented on the dramatic shifts in user information-seeking behaviors, noting that many media outlets are being compelled to innovate. “Media Gene is not just focusing on enhancing text-based media but is also vigorously advancing video production to synchronize with changing user behavior. As we enter the critical AI search era, we will continue to evolve. By securing traffic from both human and AI origins, our hybrid approach ensures we are selected as a 'correct information source,' providing a robust foundation that remains unaffected by fluctuating platforms. This definitely represents a high investment value for advertisers as well, offering a safe and genuinely influential media environment.”

Moving forward, Media Gene remains committed to producing high-quality content that reflects reliable information, ensuring that both users and advertisers can leverage the new values and possibilities of media in this AI era.

TollBit Overview
TollBit is designed to help websites securely monetize traffic generated by AI agents and bots, providing a simple and compliant method to pay for access to content. This initiative aims to assist websites in creating sustainable revenue sources amidst the changing economic landscape influenced by AI.

About Media Gene
Media Gene operates a diverse range of 17 media brands, including 'Business Insider Japan', 'Gizmodo Japan', 'Roomie', and 'Lifehacker Japan', catering to the Millennial demographic. Additionally, it features four e-commerce services, enriching readers' lives through valuable information and experiences across its extensive portfolio.

For more inquiries, please contact Media Gene at Website Contact Page.