Introducing: aP lOCAL lEDE

The Associated Press and AppliedXL are launching a new journalistic tool: AP Local Lede, an AI-powered system designed to generate local news tips on topics such as health, energy, and public policy for newsrooms. The technology is designed to promote faster and more reliable lede generation in real time, enabling journalists to use it in their reporting and enhance local journalism efforts.

Essentially, AppliedXL AI systems scan and analyze data from over 430 federal organizations, public databases, and other institutions, releasing newsworthy data or content. Next, the artificial intelligence utilizes algorithms that assess the reliability of the source and provide relevant background information, context, and even verify its own accuracy.

The third step of the workflow: human journalists in AP newsrooms review and validate tips generated by the artificial intelligence, highlighting the collaborative approach between human-beings and AI in the venture. The final step is to disseminate the gathered information to the affected areas, including newsrooms, businesses, and other relevant organizations. That's still journalism: verify, localize, humanize. 

There are many pros to this technology, the first being equal access to information. One aspect that has become increasingly troublesome in journalism is the level playing field that exists when it comes to gathering information. Larger news organizations, such as The New York Times or Fox News, have the resources to spend a significant amount of time and energy gathering these updates. Additionally, college newsrooms or freelance news journalists often face disadvantages when it comes to investing that amount of time and energy, especially if they aren't getting paid for it or aren't devoting their entire life and career to journalism. The second pro is a boost in local news coverage. One thing that we have seen in the country is the rise of news deserts, particularly local news deserts. There has been a sharp decrease in regional coverage, and an incredible number of local newspapers and news stations have closed their doors over the past decade. Therefore, a tool like AP Local Lede would be extremely resourceful in recovering local journalism.

Say a policy change means funding cuts for healthcare providers and clinics. With the assistance of AP Local Lede, journalists can identify affected clinics in their area and determine what patients should know, such as changes in hours or services provided. It might not be the biggest breaking news, but it still affects the daily lives and well-being of readers. All news is essential.

AP Local Lede is currently rolling out and is being piloted with a select group of news organizations. However, they plan to expand beyond this group in the coming months. 

Looking ahead, this tool would greatly benefit local news stations, underrepresented areas, and college journalistic endeavors. The more voices we have in the media space, the better. There has been an unfair advantage in who receives information about current events and who gets to decide what people read in the newspapers. I think that might be changing thanks to AP Local Lede.

Sources:

https://www.ap.org/media-center/press-releases/2024/ap-appliedxl-to-deliver-ai-powered-news-tips-to-local-newsrooms/

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