Google Funds AI News Articles Amid Gemini's Rise: Evolution or Ethical Dilemma?

When used appropriately, generative AI is a phenomenal instrument; however, a significant concern is that it could be exploited to inundate the internet with articles. Notwithstanding this, Google reportedly remunerates several independent publishers with sizable amounts of money to have AI-generated articles on their websites utilizing an unreleased AI model.

Google's AI for News: Empowering Publishers or Blurring Ethical Lines?

An agreement between Google and "a handful of independent publishers" would see the publication of AI-generated articles utilizing Google's AI models on these websites, according to a report by AdWeek. Per the agreement, a "fixed volume of content for 12 months" and analytical data and feedback are required for these AI-generated articles.

Moreover, this reportedly entitles the user to monthly compensation from Google exceeding $10,000 per year in certain instances and complimentary access to the tools utilized to create said articles. The program was introduced in 2018 as part of the Google News Initiative.

Although it is possible that these tools could find application for malicious purposes, the apparent objective of this agreement is to support "under-resourced publishers" in their endeavor to generate "aggregated content" using data supplied by external sources, such as "neighboring news outlets" and "government agencies."

Concerningly, the report further states that publishers wishing to participate in the program would be required to "assemble a roster of external websites that consistently generate news and reports that are pertinent to their readership."

The tool's dashboard allows the user to obtain an AI-generated synopsis of an external website post, which can subsequently undergo editing before being published or published promptly following a human editor's review. Three of these articles daily, one newsletter weekly, and one marketing campaign monthly are stipulated in the Google agreement.

The designation of these articles as AI-generated is not mandatory. Although Google partially validated the report, it refuted the claim that the tools would "republish the work of other outlets." Google stated:

"In partnership with news publishers, especially smaller publishers, we're in the early stages of exploring ideas to potentially provide AI-enabled tools to help journalists with their work. This speculation about this tool being used to republish other outlets' work is inaccurate. The experimental tool is being responsibly designed to help small, local publishers produce high quality journalism using factual content from public data sources—like a local government's public information office or health authority. These tools are not intended to, and cannot, replace the essential role journalists have in reporting, creating and fact-checking their articles."

This is not a novel endeavor, although Google's ultimate intentions for this new suite of AI tools still need to be discovered. As reported in July, Google's "Genesis" tool was marketed as a "personal assistant for journalists" with the capability to "generate news copy."

Earlier this month, access to this new AI tool was reportedly granted to publishers, but more information is needed regarding which publications have implemented the tool.

Google Assistant's Evolution: From Core Feature to Selective Integration

At its peak, Assistant was the interconnectivity material among various Google products. My favorite instance was the inclusion of "Google Assistant" under "Operating System" on the Pixel 3 technical specifications page. Then came the unsuccessful replacement for Android Auto on phone displays, Assistant Driving Mode.

It was evident around 2021; undoubtedly, by 2022, Google no longer regarded Assistant as its primary focus. Google deliberately reduced the emphasis on Assistant experiences beyond its fundamental voice capability. This encompassed the Driving Mode Dashboard, the Snapshot feed, and a "Memory" surface designed to optimize Android content storage and reminders.

What is Google Assistant Today?

On Android smartphones, Gemini is ascendant, and the company is prioritizing this platform. It is noteworthy how Google characterizes the distinction:

• Gemini, Google's experimental Al-powered assistant, can help you get creative inspiration and be more productive.

• Google Assistant is a voice-forward conversational helper you can use to get things done.

Nevertheless, several Assistant-branded experiences remain. The items on Google's list are:

• When you get info and updates from At a Glance.

• When you use the mic in the Google Maps app search bar, activate Google Assistant while navigating, such as by tapping the on-screen mic or saying "Hey Google," and when using Google Assistant driving mode.

• Connect your phone to your car display when you access Google Assistant from Android Auto.

• When you use the mic in the Waze app search bar, activate Google Assistant with the Waze app in the foreground.

• On Gboard, when you use Assistant voice typing.

• When you get Android notifications from Google Assistant devices.

Despite the indication that Gemini is on the horizon, this remains the predominant method of interacting with Google Assistant headphones across all other form factors. Intelligent displays, speakers, and Assistant for Wear OS and Android Auto and Automotive are also available.

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