The days of human reporters and journalists could soon be a thing of the past as tech giant Google pushes forward with its plan to introduce an AI-powered news writing product. Code-named Genesis, this product is designed to take in information and automatically generate news copy.
So the big tech company is penalizing publishers for using AI to write content, hiring former deep state officials, has a monopoly on online advertising, and now wants to write the news.
The idea of a robot reporting the news could be unsettling for some. After all, accurate and artful writing requires skill and numerous hours of research. However, Google believes its product can free up time for other more pressing tasks, while at the same time steering the publishing industry away from the pitfalls of AI technology.
Though it has received mixed reviews from executives, Google has pitched its product to news outlets like The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Wall Street Journal’s owner, News Corp. Jeff Jarvis, a journalist professor and commentator, sees potential advantages from its use. He believes journalists should employ the technology if it can deliver factual information reliably.
However, Google’s plan has sparked debate regarding using AI tools in the newsroom. Many outlets, including The Times and NPR, have discussed potential uses but want to avoid any technology with nuance and cultural understanding.
There is some irony that this is pitched at the same time the strike takes place in Hollywood over AI.
Reed Alexander, a correspondent for Business Insider who formerly played the role of Nevel Papperman in Nickelodeon’s hit show iCarly put it, “Everyone is afraid that AI is coming for their jobs, with robots taking over, Terminator-style.”
The writers may be exaggerating a bit.
However, up-and-coming writers who are good at using AI may have an edge, which makes many writers very nervous.
