Young People Are Turning to AI and TikTok for Their Daily News

The way people consume news is undergoing a significant transformation, driven in part by the rise of artificial intelligence and social media platforms. According to the Reuters Institute's annual Digital News Report, a notable number of individuals, particularly younger audiences, are turning to AI chatbots to stay informed about current events. The study, which surveyed nearly 97,000 people across 48 countries, found that 12 percent of under-35s and 15 percent of under-25s rely on AI tools such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, or Meta's Llama for their daily news updates. This shift in news consumption habits is described by the institute's director, Mitali Mukherjee, as a "new chapter" in the way audiences engage with information. The appeal of AI-powered news consumption lies in its ability to provide personalized, bite-sized, and quick updates, which aligns with the preferences of younger audiences. Beyond reading headlines, many readers are using AI for more complex tasks, such as summarizing news articles, translations, and recommendations on what to read next. Nearly one in five respondents have even quizzed AI directly about current events, highlighting the growing trust in these technologies. However, trust remains a concern, as many respondents expressed worries that AI could make news reporting less transparent and more prone to errors, including the technology's so-called "hallucinations" – when a chatbot fabricates information. The rise of social media platforms, particularly TikTok, is also transforming the way people consume news. Almost half of 18 to 24-year-olds now say they get most of their news via social media, with TikTok dominating among young audiences in countries such as India, Brazil, Indonesia, and Thailand. This trend is not limited to TikTok, as other social media platforms, including X, formerly known as Twitter, remain popular among news seekers. In the United States, 23 percent of people said they use X for news, up eight percentage points from last year, with a similar trend observed in Australia and Poland. The report notes that many right-leaning users, especially young men, have flocked to X, while some progressive users have drifted away. The impact of these changes on traditional media outlets is significant, with many struggling to adapt to the shifting landscape. Some news organizations, such as Agence France-Presse (AFP), are exploring opportunities within AI usage, signing deals with AI firms to give their models access to news archives. However, others, like the New York Times, have taken a more combative stance, launching copyright lawsuits against AI developers for allegedly misusing their content without permission. As the news industry continues to evolve, it is essential to consider the cultural and social implications of these changes, including the potential risks and benefits of relying on AI and social media for news consumption. The report's findings also highlight the importance of diversity and cultural sensitivity in news consumption. With different platforms and technologies appealing to various demographics, news organizations must be aware of these differences and adapt their strategies accordingly. For instance, the report notes that alternatives to X, such as Threads, Bluesky, and Mastodon, have yet to gain significant traction for news, with each capturing just 2 percent or less of the market. As the media landscape continues to shift, it is crucial to prioritize diversity, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity to ensure that news consumption remains a vibrant and dynamic aspect of our global culture. In conclusion, the Reuters Institute's Digital News Report highlights a significant transformation in the way people consume news, driven by the rise of AI and social media platforms. As younger audiences increasingly turn to these technologies for their daily news updates, it is essential to consider the cultural and social implications of these changes. By prioritizing diversity, inclusivity, and cultural sensitivity, news organizations can adapt to the shifting landscape and ensure that news consumption remains a vibrant and dynamic aspect of our global culture. Ultimately, the future of news consumption will depend on the ability of media outlets to balance the benefits of AI and social media with the need for transparency, accuracy, and trust in the information they provide.