Global study highlights growing concerns surrounding the impact of AI on news consumption
A recent industry report from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism has revealed a significant global trend of unease regarding the increasing utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in news production and dissemination.
The annual Digital News Report surveyed nearly 100,000 individuals across 47 countries, shedding light on the evolving challenges faced by newsrooms in the digital age. Among the key findings was the revelation that a considerable portion of participants expressed discomfort with the idea of AI-generated news content. Specifically, just over half of US respondents and 63% of those in the UK indicated they would be uneasy with news primarily produced by AI. However, there was less resistance to the use of AI to assist journalists with various tasks.
Senior research associate Nic Newman emphasized the surprising level of suspicion towards AI’s influence on news, with many expressing fears about content reliability and trust. These factors are essential for news organizations to retain their audience base and sustain their operations, especially given the ongoing challenges in generating revenue, with traditional news outlets increasingly relying on subscribers.
Interestingly, the report also highlighted the growing influence of social media platforms over traditional news outlets, particularly among younger audiences. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok are outpacing traditional sources in engaging with the youth demographic, with TikTok users increasingly turning to the platform for news updates.
As newsrooms navigate this rapidly evolving media landscape, there is a growing emphasis on building relationships with contemporary audiences and leveraging social media platforms to reach diverse demographics. The report pointed out the impact of video-hosting platforms like YouTube and TikTok in shaping news consumption habits, with influencers playing a significant role in shaping public opinions.
In conclusion, the Digital News Report underlines the need for news organizations to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements to ensure relevance and credibility in the digital age. By understanding the concerns and preferences of their audience, news outlets can better navigate the complexities of the modern media ecosystem and build trust among readers.
