Google explores AI tools for journalists

Google is considering using artificial intelligence tools to write news stories and is in talks with news outlets to use the tools to help journalists, a company spokesperson said late Wednesday.
The spokesperson didn’t name the publisher, but the New York Times reported that Google had been in talks with the Washington Post, News Corp, which owns the Wall Street Journal, and even The New York Times.
A Google spokeswoman said these AI tools could help journalists by providing headlines and different writing options, for example in ways that “make them more productive and work better,” adding that it’s in the “early stages of exploring ideas,” Reuters reported.
“Simply put, these tools are not intended to, and cannot, replace the critical role that journalists play in reporting, writing and fact-checking stories,” the spokesperson said.
But some executives who have seen Google’s proposal, citing people familiar with the matter, said they pointed out that the proposed AI tool is called Genesis internally at Google.
A News Corp spokeswoman declined to comment on the Times’ report or AI tools, but said, “We have a great relationship with Google and we appreciate it.” [Google CEO] Sundar Pichai’s long-term commitment to journalism. “
The New York Times and Washington Post did not respond to Reuters requests for comment outside of normal business hours.
The news comes just days after The Associated Press announced it would partner with ChatGPT owner OpenAI to explore the use of generative AI in news, a partnership that could set a precedent for similar partnerships in the space.
Some news organizations are already using generative AI in their content, but news organizations have been slow to adopt the technology due to concerns over its tendency to generate false information and challenges in distinguishing between human-generated content and computer programs.