Google is at the forefront of creating a controversial AI tool codenamed ‘Genesis’, which is designed to write news articles, sparking debates within media circles. The tech giant has demoed the tool to media executives from the New York Times, Washington Post, and News Corp, who run the Wall Street Journal, eliciting mixed responses.
Executives Expressed Mixed Response Over the Development
On one hand, some executives view it as a potentially useful tool to assist journalists, while others believe it undervalues the meticulous efforts needed to produce accurate and refined news stories. Google, however, maintains that Genesis is in the very early stages of development, and its primary purpose is to help, not replace journalists.
The functionality of Genesis aligns with the broader trajectory of Google’s innovations. Previously, Googled rolled out similar products including “Help me write” in Gmail and Google Docs, and the more contextual ‘Magic Compose’ in Messages.
Nonetheless, the tool’s reliability and efficacy remain under scrutiny. Recent reports have pointed to inaccuracies and irrelevance in Google’s AI model responses when tested in hospitals, amplifying concerns around Genesis.
Google’s Motives Put into Question
While the concept of a personalised assistant for journalists is alluring, enabling them to focus on other aspects of their work, some are wary of Google’s shaky record with new product launches. Others have raised questions about Google’s motives and its tense relationship with the media industry.
The ongoing dispute over Google News exposure for local papers, the AMP controversy, and a lawsuit by newspaper giant Gannett accusing Google of damaging local news with its adtech monopolies, underline the complicated dynamics at play.
It is also worth noting that generative AI, such as Genesis, poses unique challenges and threats. Inaccurate or misleading information generated by AI could distort traditional news reporting methods and spread misinformation on a large scale. These concerns have added fuel to the apprehension among long-standing journalists and publishers.
Google Sees Bright Future Ahead
Yet, Google remains optimistic about Genesis’s potential. They aim to provide journalists with emerging technologies that can enhance their work and productivity, much like assistive tools available for users in Gmail and Google Docs. As the exploration of AI-enabled tools for journalism is in its infancy, the dialogue around their impact, benefits, and risks will undoubtedly continue.
