In an era marked by the rapid advancement of technology, the media industry is no stranger to the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI). News Corp Australia, a leading media conglomerate, has taken a significant step towards incorporating AI into its operations. Executive Chair Michael Miller recently revealed that News Corp Australia’s Data Local unit is using generative artificial intelligence to produce an astounding 3,000 articles per week. 

These AI-generated stories focus on hyperlocal topics such as weather, fuel prices, and traffic conditions, catering to the information needs of communities across the country.

The rise of data local and AI-generated content

Led by News Corp’s data journalism editor, Peter Judd, the Data Local unit employs a team of four staff members who collaborate with AI technology to create a vast array of local news stories. Many of these stories carry Judd’s byline, maintaining a sense of continuity and familiarity for readers. The AI-generated content supplements the copy written by reporters for News Corp’s 75 “hyperlocal” mastheads, which are spread across regions like Penrith, Lismore, Fairfield, Bundaberg, and Cairns.

The AI-generated stories are designed to provide service information to readers, offering valuable details such as where to find the cheapest fuel in specific areas. It is noteworthy that the AI-generated nature of these reports is not explicitly disclosed on the pages where they are published. However, News Corp confirms that all AI-generated information undergoes oversight from working journalists within the Data Local team.

AI and the future of local news

According to Michael Miller’s remarks at the World News Media Congress, a significant proportion of new subscribers to News Corp’s services are primarily interested in local news. These subscribers often stay for national and global news coverage, as well as lifestyle content. In fact, 55% of all subscriptions are driven by News Corp’s hyperlocal mastheads, underscoring the importance of AI-generated content in satisfying the information needs of local communities.

Furthermore, News Corp’s focus on digital-only publications has been instrumental in maintaining its presence in various regions. In recent years, the company has launched 24 digital-only titles, staffed by a single journalist each. These digital-only titles cater to regions with populations of 15,000 or more, where the local journalist’s efforts to generate new subscriptions contribute significantly to their salary coverage.

While News Corp’s embrace of AI-generated content aims to enhance the delivery of service information and improve content accessibility, it raises questions about the future of journalism and the role of AI in news reporting. For instance, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is exploring AI applications to enhance content accessibility and user experience. 

As media companies continue to embrace AI and test its capabilities, the focus remains on maintaining the integrity of public interest journalism while leveraging technology to reach a broader audience.

Jomar Teves

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After four years in business school and working for multinational clients, Jomar believes he can improve the world through his writings via Public Spectrum, by informing the public on the latest news and updates happening around the government and society. Jomar has eight years experience as a writer and has a degree in Business Administration and Entrepreneurial Marketing.

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