Artificial intelligence (AI) is swiftly changing the media landscape, prompting concerns and opportunities. News Corporation’s CEO, Robert Thomson, has highlighted issues related to job losses, content quality, and AI’s broader societal influence.

Concerns about job displacement

Robert Thomson has raised a red flag regarding the potential for AI to displace jobs within the media sector. Notably, he pointed out that, between 2008 and 2020, the United States witnessed a substantial 57% reduction in newsroom positions. Thomson is apprehensive that this trend may persist, possibly resulting in significant job losses across the industry.

The impact of AI on jobs extends beyond mere numbers. Thomson underscores that it’s not just jobs at stake but also the invaluable insights and expertise that human journalists bring to their work. As AI takes on more responsibilities within newsrooms, there is a growing concern that the depth and quality of reporting may be compromised due to the loss of human insights.

AI-Generated Content Quality

Thomson also highlights an important aspect of AI-generated content. He notes that AI predominantly relies on existing data and content, resulting in a retrospective approach. This approach could contribute to a surfeit of subpar and meaningless information if not carefully managed. Rather than enhancing content quality, AI might inadvertently contribute to a glut of low-quality material, as Thomson aptly describes it.

The media industry’s skirmishes with tech giants, particularly Google, have a long history. Rupert Murdoch, a prominent media figure, has accused Google of appropriating content from his newspaper holdings, which include The Times, The Sun, The Wall Street Journal, and the New York Post. These disputes have given rise to regulatory measures, including Australia’s legislation that mandates tech firms to compensate news outlets for their content.

Seizing opportunities amidst challenges

Despite the challenges posed by AI, Thomson also recognizes the opportunities it presents. He believes AI can be harnessed to reduce operational costs for media companies, particularly in back-office functions. Several media outlets, including local Australian titles under News Corporation, have already begun using AI for weather and fuel price reporting tasks.

Legal battles and content neutrality

One noteworthy development in response to AI’s role in media is the prospect of legal action. Prominent news organizations, including The New York Times, Reuters, and CNN, have initiated measures to block AI software like ChatGPT, which scours the internet for content. Negotiations between media entities and AI developers, such as OpenAI, over licensing agreements have sometimes hit roadblocks, potentially leading to legal disputes.

Thomson also expresses concerns about the potential for AI programs to produce biased or politically slanted articles. This raises important questions about the responsibility of AI companies to ensure the quality and impartiality of their products.

The regulatory environment is evolving in response to these challenges. Bodies like Britain’s Intellectual Property Office are actively evaluating how copyright laws should apply to AI-generated content. This underscores the necessity for clear guidelines to address copyright and content quality concerns in the AI era.

A preference for negotiation

While some media organizations have considered legal action, Thomson leans toward a negotiation-based approach. He emphasizes the significance of AI companies acknowledging their responsibility to their products and society at large. Negotiations have already resulted in agreements between media outlets and AI companies, exemplifying the potential for finding common ground.

The challenges brought about by AI in the media industry are multifaceted. Job losses, content quality concerns, legal disputes, and regulatory considerations contribute to the intricate landscape. As the media sector grapples with these issues, it remains to be seen how AI and media organizations will strike a balance between harnessing the technology’s potential and addressing its associated challenges. The future of media in the era of AI will undoubtedly continue to evolve as stakeholders navigate this dynamic landscape.