News Corp. is making bold strides in the world of artificial intelligence, with plans to capitalize on the potential of generative AI technology. CEO Robert Thomson announced during the company’s fiscal first-quarter earnings call that they are in advanced discussions with various digital companies to license their content for use in AI engines. This move is expected to bring in significant revenue for News Corp., as their unmatched content sets are valuable inputs for generative AI engines.
Thomson emphasized the importance of constantly replenishing AI engines with relevant and high-quality content, highlighting News Corp.’s commitment to partnering with responsible purveyors of AI products. He also expressed his own views on the technology, warning about the potential for misinformation and disinformation in the era of artificial intelligence. Thomson stressed the irreplaceable value of great reporting and genuine journalistic analysis as a counterbalance to the potential pitfalls of AI-generated content.
In terms of financial performance, News Corp. reported a revenue of $2.5 billion, marking a 1 percent increase from the previous year. The growth was driven by the HarperCollins book publishing division, which contributed to a net income of $58 million. While the company is evaluating its structure, the specifics of any potential changes, such as layoffs or asset sales, have not been disclosed.
During the earnings call, Thomson also praised the company’s founder and outgoing chairman, Rupert Murdoch, who will transition to a chairman emeritus role. He expressed confidence in Murdoch’s continued influence and highlighted the essential role of Murdoch’s vast experience as a resource for the company. Thomson also expressed anticipation for Lachlan Murdoch assuming the role of sole chair, emphasizing his dedication to principled journalism and multidisciplinary expertise.
News Corp.’s foray into generative AI reflects the growing interest and investment in artificial intelligence across various industries. The potential for AI to transform content generation, analysis, and distribution is vast, and News Corp. aims to position itself at the forefront of this technological evolution. By leveraging their extensive content library, the company is primed to harness the power of generative AI to drive revenue and innovation in the digital landscape. The company’s strategic partnerships with AI technology providers underscore their commitment to ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence.
As AI continues to develop and integrate into diverse sectors, News Corp.’s proactive approach in leveraging their content for AI engines sets a precedent for content-driven organizations. The blend of traditional journalism values with cutting-edge technology positions News Corp. as a key player in the future of media and AI convergence. With a focus on maintaining journalistic integrity and relevance in the AI era, News Corp. is poised to chart a successful path in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
