OpenAI, the major tech company behind ChatGPT and the upcoming Sora, has been forming numerous partnerships. With billion-dollar giants like Apple and Microsoft bringing ChatGPT to the masses and the company using data from sources like Vox Media to power its chatbot, OpenAI seems unstoppable.
As the best AI chatbots continue to rise in popularity and concerns over AI image generators and OpenAI’s Sora linger in the background, OpenAI's deals with various media companies suggest AI could become a tool for journalism and news. Now, the company is partnering with TIME magazine as well.
"Through this collaboration, OpenAI will gain access to current and historic content from TIME's extensive archives from the last 101 years to enhance its products and respond to user inquiries," reads a press release from TIME. "The partnership will also enable TIME to use OpenAI's technology to develop new products for its audiences."
The announcement includes quotes from upper management at TIME and OpenAI, such as Mark Howard, TIME’s Chief Operating Officer, and Brad Lightcap, Chief Operating Officer of OpenAI. However, the most significant statement comes toward the end of the release: "[TIME will] provide vital feedback and share practical applications to refine and enhance the delivery of journalism in ChatGPT and other OpenAI products, shaping the future of news experiences."
Interestingly, according to a recent survey, people don't trust AI-generated journalism. Considering an AI news site falsely accused a man of sexual abuse, it’s understandable why this could lead to problems. With tools like Copilot creating harmful images and Google AI offering inappropriate advice, such as suggesting people drink urine, it’s clear why these issues concern many, including the “Godfather of AI,” who believes the technology could lead to our downfall.
Moreover, with OpenAI’s CTO stating that some creative jobs shouldn’t exist, it feels like a betrayal for a journalistic organization to partner with a tech company, especially since journalism is considered creative work. It’s disappointing to see a century-old company fall for the same AI trend as every other corporation.