Google is actively exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for writing news articles and is in discussions with various news organisations to support journalists with these tools, according to a company spokesperson. While the spokesperson didn’t specify the publishers involved, it was reported that Google has engaged with prominent media outlets like the Washington Post, News Corp (owner of the Wall Street Journal), the New York Times, among others.
The proposed AI tools aim to assist journalists in tasks such as generating headline options and exploring different writing styles, ultimately enhancing their productivity. The spokesperson emphasised that these tools are not intended to replace journalists’ essential role in reporting, creating content, and fact-checking their articles. Instead, they are meant to complement and support the work of journalists.
The AI tool being pitched internally at Google goes by the name “Genesis,” as per sources familiar with the matter cited by the New York Times. Some executives who had a glimpse of Google’s proposal expressed discomfort with the idea, although they preferred to remain anonymous.
Recently, the Associated Press announced its partnership with OpenAI, the owner of ChatGPT, to explore the use of generative AI in news. This deal may set a precedent for similar collaborations between the news industry and AI developers.
While some outlets are already utilising generative AI for content creation, news publications have been cautious about adopting this technology due to concerns about generating inaccurate information and difficulties in distinguishing between human-produced content and AI-generated content.