News Corp's CEO, Robert Thomson, has revealed a unique perspective on the company's role in the AI landscape, stating that News Corp is essentially an 'input company' after securing a substantial US$150 million deal with Meta. This deal, worth up to US$50 million annually, allows Meta to utilize News Corp's reliable breaking news and information from publications like the Australian, the Times of London, and Dow Jones as 'inputs' for training its artificial intelligence products. The agreement, which is expected to last at least three years, covers News Corp's US and UK content, including the Journal and the New York Post, but excludes the Australian mastheads like the Daily Telegraph and the Herald Sun.
In a confident tone, Thomson emphasized the value of News Corp's content as an 'input' for AI, comparing it to the role of semiconductors, data centers, and energy in the digital ecosystem. He highlighted the unique and reliable nature of breaking news and real estate information as essential components for AI development. Thomson's approach to AI partnerships is a balanced one; he welcomes collaborations but is prepared to take legal action if AI companies use News Corp's content without permission.
The CEO's relationship with key figures in the AI industry, such as Sam Altman of OpenAI and Mark Zuckerberg of Meta, is a testament to his strategic vision. Despite a more adversarial stance towards social media platforms in Australia, where News Corp Australia's executive chair, Michael Miller, has criticized their impact on social cohesion, the company has embraced AI integration in its journalism. The introduction of 'NewsGPT' in Australia showcases News Corp's commitment to innovation, even if it has raised concerns among some journalists.
News Corp's deal with OpenAI in 2024 further underscores its willingness to leverage AI for news content. This partnership brought news content from various publications to the ChatGPT platform, demonstrating the potential for AI to enhance news delivery. However, not all media organizations have embraced AI; some, like the New York Times, have sued OpenAI and Microsoft over the use of their content for AI training, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding AI's role in journalism.
