Global audiences suspicious of AI-powered newsrooms, especially in political coverage
Concerns about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in news production and the spread of misinformation are on the rise worldwide. Among various countries, Australians are particularly wary of AI, especially in the context of political coverage.
Annual Digital News Report Highlights Challenges Faced by News Outlets
The annual Digital News Report conducted by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism provides insights into the obstacles faced by news organizations in generating revenue and sustaining their businesses. The report, which surveyed 2000 individuals across 47 countries, sheds light on the growing adoption of generative AI by newsrooms globally.
Major tech players like Google and OpenAI are developing tools that can produce news summaries and redirect traffic from traditional news websites. However, the report reveals that consumers harbor suspicions about the use of AI in creating news content, particularly when it comes to sensitive subjects like politics.
In Australia, where the study was conducted by the University of Canberra's News and Media Research Centre, 59% of respondents expressed discomfort with AI-generated news, surpassing the global average of 45%. Similar sentiments were echoed in the US (52%) and the UK (63%).
Audience Preference for Human-Centric Journalism with AI Assistance
While suspicions about AI-generated news persist, the University of Canberra's study highlights a nuanced attitude among audiences. People seem more at ease with journalism that is primarily human-produced but assisted by AI, compared to content solely created by AI under human supervision.
Professor Sora Park, lead author of the Australian study, emphasizes the importance of transparency in news production processes. Audiences expect news organizations to disclose the role of AI in content creation, especially concerning politically sensitive topics.
Quality Journalism and Transparency Key to Audience Trust
Despite uncertainties surrounding AI-powered news, more Australians are turning to traditional news sources and consuming a greater volume of news content. The study indicates that 21% of Australians continue to pay for news, a rate higher than the global average, reflecting the value placed on quality journalism and transparency.
However, the report shows a shift towards news consumption through social media platforms. Half of all Australians rely on social media for news, with one-quarter considering it their primary news source. Among Gen Z individuals, 60% depend on social media for news, with Instagram emerging as the preferred platform for this demographic.
Rising Concerns About Misinformation and Online Content
Globally, apprehensions about fake news online have increased, with 59% of survey participants expressing worry. This trend is more pronounced in countries like South Africa and the US, where election-related misinformation is prevalent.
In Australia, concerns about misinformation have surged to 75%, up by 11 percentage points compared to the previous year. Instances of misinformation are commonly encountered in discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, national politics, and climate change.
Furthermore, news influencers on platforms like TikTok are becoming prominent news sources, with 57% of surveyed users indicating a preference for individual personalities over mainstream media outlets.
As audiences navigate evolving news landscapes, the report underscores the significant role of quality journalism, transparency, and accountability in maintaining trust and credibility among news consumers.
