Link: How Britannica survived the Wikipedia era by changing itself into a maker of education software and AI agents, as it reportedly weighs an IPO at a $1B valuation (Michael J. de la Merced/New York Times)

Once threatened by the digital age, Encyclopaedia Britannica has transformed into an A.I. powerhouse, now considering an IPO. The company, which stopped its iconic print edition in 2012, has shifted to digital and educational software, embracing artificial intelligence.

Britannica now operates successful websites like Britannica.com and Merriam-Webster.com, serving over seven billion page views annually from users worldwide. It's vastly different from its origins as a heavy set of books, the last of which was published in 2010.

CEO Jorge Cauz reports that Britannica's pivot to digital and A.I. tools has been financially fruitful, with substantial profit margins. The company's integration of A.I. has enhanced its educational products, making them more interactive and accurate.

The company is leveraging A.I. to innovate further, developing applications like an English-language tutor that uses avatars and custom lessons. Such advancements are part of why Britannica's revenue has nearly doubled recently, reflecting a strong demand for digital educational tools.

Meanwhile, Britannica is considering going public to capitalize on its transformation and success. Though the timeline is unclear, the move could value the company at around $1 billion, a significant appreciation from earlier valuations.

This shift not only secures Britannica's future but also sets a precedent in how traditional companies can adapt to and thrive in new technological landscapes. Their journey from print to digital exemplifies resilience and innovation in the evolving business world. #

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