AI-Generated Article Summaries Are Being Tested.
Gannett is also implementing AI-driven article summaries.
The Wall Street Journal has begun testing AI-generated article summaries, which are displayed at the beginning of its news stories. These summaries appear in a box titled “Key Points,” where the most relevant elements of the content are presented. This initiative was highlighted in an article about Trump’s plans for the Department of Education, and the publication confirmed that it is evaluating reader reactions to this feature.
The “Key Points” box includes a message indicating that an “AI tool created this summary” and that it was reviewed by an editor. Additionally, a link is provided to a page detailing how the WSJ and Dow Jones Newswires use AI tools. According to Taneth Evans, the WSJ's digital director, a series of A/B tests are being conducted to better understand what users need regarding article summarization. The newsroom collaborates with the technology staff and engages with readers throughout the process. They also ensure that they always disclose how AI tools are used to support their journalistic efforts.
The use of AI-generated summaries is on the rise across various news sites and platforms. Gannett, the owner of USA Today, has also experimented with the inclusion of similar summaries in its articles, using a “Key Points” format. Additionally, applications like Particle offer article summaries through AI. However, it is suggested that readers opt to read the full articles to avoid potential errors that the AI system may present.