AP Says You Can Use AI in News But Not Without These Rules

In the ever-evolving world of news, the Associated Press (AP) has always been a trendsetter. With AI knocking on journalism's door, AP decided to set some ground rules. The debate is real. AI's capabilities in the newsroom are impressive, but AP's guidelines are clear: 

AI cannot be used to create publishable content and images for AP.

The material produced by AI must be vetted carefully.

AI-generated photos, videos, or audio segments should not be used unless the AI alteration is the main subject of the story.

But as with any technology, evolution is inevitable. AP's journey with AI over the past decade, from auto-generating concise reports to assisting in research, has been transformative. Important to note here that the AI used by the Associated Press in the past was much simpler in overall capabilities than the ChatGPT. As a result, they're moving forward with caution, ensuring the core of journalism remains intact.

Also read: ChatGPT App for Android allows only 5 questions: You must give it a try

Features & Flaws: AI in Modern Journalism

AI's relationship to journalism is like a power armour to a Space Marine (Warhammer 40k reference), it can enhance your capabilities but isn't much use if you lack basic combat prowess or, more specifically, in this case, writing and reporting skills. AP's stance is balanced: AI can be a tool, an assistant, but it shouldn't be the sole decision-maker. It's like having a backup system; useful, but always overseen by a human.

AI, with its vast capabilities, is like a feature-rich platform. It can enhance, innovate, and streamline. However, it's not without its glitches. From potential biases to the risk of misinformation, AI-generated content demands rigorous oversight.

Witnessing the intertwining of AI and journalism has been nothing short of fascinating. AP's new guidelines reflect their dedication to upholding journalistic integrity. While AI holds a promising place, the essence of human-driven journalism remains paramount. AP's approach sets a gold standard, offering a balanced blend of tradition and innovation.

Also read: Apple GPT is iPhone maker's big push into generative AI space

I personally think that the integration of AI in newsrooms is a double-edged sword. While it promises efficiency and innovation, it also brings forth concerns about authenticity, job displacement, and intellectual property rights. The Associated Press, along with other news organisations, is taking a commendable step by setting guidelines to ensure the responsible use of AI. These standards not only protect the integrity of journalism but also educate the public about the capabilities and limitations of AI. As AI continues to evolve, it's crucial for the media industry to strike a balance between leveraging technology and preserving the core values of journalism.

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Yetnesh Dubey

Yetnesh works as a reviewer with Digit and likes to write about stuff related to hardware. He is also an auto nut and in an alternate reality works as a trucker delivering large boiling equipment across Europe. View Full Profile