Outbrain launches Sphere, a platform for content recommendations between premium publishers

Sphere offers an algorithm for recommendations based on users’ browsing, plus a per-click payment model that only rewards Outbrain for engagement. Content recommendation services like Outbrain and Taboola post linked thumbnail images leading to what is supposed to be related material, but the quality and relevance often leave something to be desired. In a move intended to offer high-quality and more relevant content to readers, Outbrain is today announcing the launch of Sphere. It’s a closed content recommendation platform, available on an invitation-only basis to selected premium publishers. Content suggestions lead only to the websites of other publishers in Sphere. Here is a page on CNN.com, which is showing conventional Outbrain suggestions at the bottom and right-side positions. Although US General Manager Matt Crenshaw wouldn’t reveal the total number of current Sphere members or the specific membership, there are at least six participating publishers at launch: CNN, Meredith Corporation, Penske Media Corporation, Getty Images, Time Magazine and The Washington Post.