In today’s changing news media landscape, news organizations face daunting challenges. There’s a new report from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism. It reveals growing global concerns about AI-generated news and the spread of misinformation. At the same time, news influencers are gaining prominence. This is especially among younger audiences on platforms like TikTok.
The institute’s annual Digital News Report surveyed nearly 100,000 people across 47 countries. It highlights the significant obstacles newsrooms face in engaging audiences and generating revenue. As they grapple with these issues, the rise of AI presents additional challenges.
Skepticism Toward AI-Generated News Grows
The report shows that people are particularly wary of news content produced mainly by AI. This is especially true for sensitive topics like politics. In the U.S., 52% of respondents expressed discomfort with AI-generated news. In the UK, that figure was even higher at 63%.
However, respondents were more accepting of AI being used behind the scenes. They were okay with it being used to help journalists work more efficiently. But they don’t want AI to be the primary creator of the news they consume.
This skepticism adds to the challenges newsrooms already face. They are struggling to sustain operations and engage audiences. The report underscores the need for news organizations to tread carefully with AI.
But not all news generations have been negative. AI has helped companies and ecommerce sites generate news that increases their sales. For example, a company developing a new product can use AI to create visuals and news text which is tailored to be catchy and informative.
E-commerce sites such as online casinos also use AI to advertise the release of new games or bonuses. As such, the global acceptance of AI news has positively helped online casino sites gain more customers who are interested in the exciting casino games and bonuses.
Worries About False News Rise
Concerns about false news content online have risen. Now, by three percentage since last year. Now, 59% of survey respondents say they are worried about this issue. The concern is especially high in South Africa (81%) and the U.S. (72%). Both countries have elections coming up this year.
False news and misinformation have been major problems in recent years. The pandemic and contentious political events have fueled the spread of false narratives online. News organizations have worked hard to combat this issue. But it remains a serious challenge, as this report makes clear.
To maintain trust, newsrooms will need to redouble their efforts to provide reliable information. They will also need to help audiences spot and reject false content. This is no easy task in today’s polarized and fast-moving information environment.
Audiences Reluctant to Pay for News
Another ongoing challenge for news organizations is getting people to pay for content. Despite some growth during the pandemic, only 17% of respondents across 20 countries currently pay for online news. This figure has stayed the same for three years straight.
Convincing audiences to open their wallets has always been difficult for news organizations. But it is especially hard now, with so much free content available online. Many news outlets have put up paywalls or started subscription services. But convincing a large segment of the audience to pay remains an uphill battle.
Some organizations have had success with membership models or donations. But overall, funding quality journalism remains a major issue. Without reliable revenue streams, newsrooms will struggle to provide the coverage communities need.
The Rise of News Influencers
As trust in traditional media wavers, a new type of news figure is gaining prominence: the influencer. On TikTok, 57% of users who get news from the platform pay more attention to influencers than established journalists or news brands. Only 34% mainly follow traditional news sources.
One example is Vitus “V” Spehar, who has 3.1 million TikTok followers. Spehar is known for delivering headlines while lying on the floor under a desk. This unorthodox approach aims to make the news feel more laid-back and approachable.
The popularity of figures like Spehar highlights generational shifts in media consumption. Younger audiences tend to prefer more personality-driven, less formal takes on current events. They are less loyal to established brands and more open to new voices.
For newsrooms, this trend presents both challenges and opportunities. They will need to find ways to connect with these audiences on their preferred platforms. This may mean rethinking traditional formats and leveraging individual personalities. At the same time, they will need to maintain the standards and credibility that set them apart from mere influencers.
Ultimately, this report paints a picture of a media landscape in flux. Artificial intelligence, misinformation, influencers, and weak revenue streams. These are reshaping how news is produced and consumed. To thrive in this environment, news organizations will need to innovate. At the same time, upholding the core values of accuracy and independence. How they navigate these challenges will have profound implications for informed democracies.
Read also more blog theunipost.com .
