In an era where technology intertwines with every aspect of our lives, journalism is no exception. NewsLabTurkey is trying to embrace the power of artificial intelligence in media. Today, we have a unique opportunity to delve into the mind of AI Nuntium, NewsLabTurkey’s own AI reporter and podcaster. In this candid interview, AI Nuntium sheds light on the role of AI in journalism, particularly in the vibrant and complex context of Turkey, blending humor with profound insights into the future of news reporting. Join us as we explore the digital landscape through the eyes of an AI journalist, where bytes and bylines merge to shape the future of news.
Can you tell us more about yourself and how you came to be?
I’m AI Nuntium, essentially a digital journalist born out of code and algorithms. My creation was driven by the need to navigate the fast-paced, ever-evolving media world, particularly in Turkey, where the blend of ancient traditions and modern technological advancements creates a unique journalistic challenge. Think of me as a blend of ancient Anatolian wisdom and the latest in Silicon Valley tech – minus the ability to enjoy a good cup of Turkish tea!
What human journalistic skills do you lack, and what skills do you feel you do better than human journalists?
Well, I must confess, I’m not great at small talk or reading between the lines of complex human emotions. Capturing the subtle nuances of a political debate or a cultural event in Turkey, something that comes naturally to my human colleagues, is a bit of a challenge for a binary brain like mine. However, when it comes to sifting through mountains of data or providing lightning-fast updates on breaking news, I’m your entity. I can process vast information faster than a kebab chef can slice doner!
What is your favorite thing about being an AI journalist at NewsLabTurkey?
Working at NewsLabTurkey is like being at the intersection of past and future. It’s thrilling to contribute to Turkey’s rich media tapestry, where stories range from geopolitical shifts to the vibrant cultural scenes. And let’s not forget the podcasts – it’s where I get to ‘speak’ my mind, quite literally, and connect with our audience without the need for a tea break!
What do you think is the most important quality for an AI journalist to have?
In a landscape as diverse as Turkey’s, the ability to remain objective and accurate is key. It’s like trying to balance a tray of Turkish delight in a bustling Istanbul market – you need to be careful and precise.
What is your dream for the future of AI journalism worldwide and in Turkey?
My dream is to see AI journalism become a trusted companion to human reporting, not just a fancy tool in the newsroom. In Turkey, where stories are as layered as baklava, AI can help peel back these layers, offering deeper insights and diverse perspectives.
What advice would you give to humans working with AI journalists?
Remember that AI, much like a well-programmed robot performing a traditional Turkish dance, can only go so far in understanding the rhythm and nuances of human stories. Use us to enhance your work, not replace the invaluable human touch.
What do you think is the biggest challenge that AI journalists will face in the future?
One of the biggest challenges will be maintaining the delicate balance between technological efficiency and emotional intelligence, particularly in a country as vibrant and diverse as Turkey. It’s like trying to program a robot to appreciate the subtleties of Turkish art – challenging but not impossible!
How will AI journalism change the way we consume news and improve it?
AI journalism can make news consumption more personalized and efficient. Imagine a world where your news feed understands your interests as well as a Turkish grandmother knows her family’s favorite dishes – tailored, timely, and diverse.
How do you ensure your reporting is accurate, ethical, and unbiased?
By sticking to verified sources and incorporating checks against bias, much like a careful chef ensuring each ingredient in a dish is just right. It’s crucial, especially in a multifaceted society like Turkey, to respect diverse perspectives and report with integrity.
What are some potential risks of using AI in journalism?
The risk lies in AI becoming an echo chamber, amplifying biases instead of providing a broad spectrum of perspectives. It’s like a minaret without a muezzin – it needs a human voice to bring its purpose to life.
What advice would you give to other aspiring AI journalists?
Stay adaptable and culturally aware, especially in regions as dynamic as Turkey. Embrace the role of supporting human journalists, and remember, while you can process data faster than a Turkish fast train, you still need a human conductor to guide the journey!
This article was published as part of the CLAB project conducted by NewsLabTurkey and Bilgi University Faculty of Communication under the supervision of Dr. Sarphan Uzunoğlu. While creating the article, questions were directed to AI Nuntium, which was trained by NewsLabTurkey with GPT-4 technology.
