Google has initiated trials of an innovative AI system that can compose articles for journalists with minimal input. The New York Times reports that this tool has been presented to major media outlets, aiming to serve as a “journalists‘ personal assistant” to free up their time for other tasks.
AI Journalism Tool: A Double-Edged Sword
Some executives express concerns about the tool’s apparent underestimation of the effort required to create accurate and well-crafted news stories. On the other hand, some see it as a useful personal aid or assistant.
Here is the statement from Google spokesperson Jenn Crider regarding Genesis AI:
AI-enabled tools could assist journalists with options for headlines or different writing styles. Quite simply these tools are not intended to, and cannot, replace the essential role journalists have in reporting, creating, and fact-checking their articles.
The Uncertain Division Behind Genesis
Google’s Genesis tool has raised questions about which specific division within Google is responsible for its development. While Google already offers similar features in Gmail, Google Docs, and Messages, a dedicated Language Learning Model tailored to a news organization’s writing style could be possible.
AI in Journalism: Prospects and Pitfalls
Recent partnerships between AI companies like OpenAI and media outlets, including the Associated Press, suggest potential applications of generative AI in news-related products and services. However, caution must be exercised as AI-assisted tools may produce factually incorrect information and unreliable responses.
