UK local papers embrace AI tools to augment human reporters amid job cuts
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Berrow's Worcester Journal, one of the world's oldest newspapers, is using AI to help reporters check facts and free up time for investigative journalism.
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Newsquest has hired 8 "AI-assisted reporters" in the past year to use a ChatGPT-based tool to turn council minutes and other content into news reports.
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The AI cannot replace human reporters for on-the-scene reporting, but allows them more time for in-person interviews, investigations, etc.
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Newsquest has safeguards like training and a code of conduct to avoid issues with inaccuracy that plague ChatGPT.
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Declining ad revenue and job cuts make tools to aid short-staffed local papers necessary, though some publishers approach AI cautiously.