The Future of News Agencies in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 17 (Bernama) — News agencies will continue to thrive in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI), said Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies (OANA) secretary-general Zaman Rezakhani.
Zaman, who also serves as the International Relations Director of the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), noted that years ago, the rise of radio and television led to predictions that news agencies would become obsolete. However, they continue to thrive today.
Embracing New Technologies
"AI is a new technology, like websites. We can make use of new technologies, and it will help us. It will help us to reach to the new generation. Lesser audience? No, I don’t think it’s a big threat," he told Bernama when met after he delivered his opening remarks at the 54th OANA Executive Board Meeting (EBM) here Monday.
According to Zaman, news agencies can remain relevant if they embrace new technologies and adapt to changing audience needs. However, he stated that AI cannot be used for every aspect of writing and is more useful and suitable for routine news, such as sports scores or stock market results.
AI as an Opportunity or Threat
AI becomes an opportunity when professional news agencies use AI to provide their audience with fast and reliable news. However, it becomes a threat when certain organisations or individuals misuse it to spread false information.
OANA’s Role
OANA was established in 1961 on the initiative of UNESCO to facilitate direct and free news exchange among news agencies in a region that accounts for over half of the world’s population. OANA currently has 41 member news agencies from 33 countries, with 13 agencies serving on its Executive Board.
The OANA EBM is held annually, with the last meeting hosted in Russia. The 54th OANA EBM will bring together representatives from 13 international news agencies, including the Islamic Republic News Agency (Iran), Yonhap News Agency (South Korea), Azertac (Azerbaijan), TASS (Russia), and others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, news agencies will continue to exist and thrive in the age of AI, as long as they adapt to changing audience needs and embrace new technologies. AI can be a valuable tool for providing fast and reliable news, but it is crucial to ensure that it is used ethically and responsibly.
FAQs
Q: How will news agencies adapt to the age of AI?
A: News agencies will need to adapt to changing audience needs and embrace new technologies, including AI.
Q: Can AI replace human journalists?
A: No, AI cannot replace human journalists, but it can be used to assist them in providing fast and reliable news.
Q: How will OANA play a role in the age of AI?
A: OANA will continue to facilitate direct and free news exchange among member news agencies, promoting cooperation and collaboration in the region.