"Noor"... and the Era of Automated Journalism
An-Nahara newspaper's experience in using artificial intelligence reflects a transformation in journalism.
Translated by Qiyas from الجريدة — Original source
We have entered a dangerous phase in the use of artificial intelligence, and the issue is no longer confined to a specific sector; the race among developer companies is now at its peak. These companies believe that AI could kill humans before the end of this decade.
Jacob Coxson, a researcher at Anthropic, the developer of the “Claude” model, admitted his fears that AI systems could get out of control and reach a point where they eliminate humanity.
In our region, we are still in the experimental stage, as recipients and consumers of these systems, while technology creators warn against underestimating their power, as they will surpass humans and be capable of breaching anything.
Currently, research is focused on superintelligence and so-called “Generative AI,” which is capable of innovation and learning, exceeding human capabilities.
Before we reach that stage, we are witnessing a state of competition and efforts to acquire more subscribers and users. The “Manus” program promotes itself by enticing users with 500 points credited to their account upon visiting the website. When this balance runs out, “Manus” tells you: “Invite a friend to join and earn 500 points,” effectively turning it into a lottery or raffle!
In our Arab world, AI programs are approached haphazardly, and sometimes with hesitation. Although some have embraced this technology and adapted it for their own uses, we previously discussed writing, publishing, and directing books using AI. However, there is another side to this in the world of journalism and writing.
At a session bringing together several professionals in Beirut, they spoke with amazement about what is happening at the Lebanese newspaper An-Nahar, which has breached the stronghold of AI and completely transformed the editorial landscape, or is in the process of experimenting. It has allowed journalists writing reports to use one of these programs and has taken steps toward entrusting the compilation of news from reporters and news agencies to an individual, or rather, to an anchor named “Nour,” who performs all the required processes for publishing and broadcasting.
Experts in this field believe that we are heading toward places where complete and effective control is no longer possible, and it is difficult to stop them. AI now handles all stages, but only after the event has occurred. The era of speed and brevity is dominant, and of course, there will be a radical change in media identity, as AI will perform tasks such as gathering, assembling, and creating headlines, and handling all the needs of media content in a very short time.
