September 4, 2024
New PR Tools Boost Productivity at a Cost
PR pros have more tools at their disposal than ever before, but their proliferation is coming with increased costs. After an initial AI boom, companies are beginning to determine the value of this emerging technology. Graphic design platform Canva is raising prices up to 300% as it incorporates AI-driven design tools. Google has re-launched its image generator tool, following months of reworking.
Communications company Muck Rack has acquired Keyhole to enhance its PR software, integrating ‘social listening’ capabilities, allowing users to monitor social media conversations and trends. A marketing agency, ironically named Eavesdrop, is pursuing new software that listens to user voice data to curate targeted advertising.
More Media Focus on Local News
As the news business continues to grapple with declining readership and revenue, more reporters are searching for new opportunities. Many journalists are moving away from major coastal cities to smaller towns and rural areas, a trend accelerated by the pandemic and remote work. Local journalism is evolving through innovative practices, such as leveraging digital platforms and new revenue models, to overcome challenges like declining print revenues.
The changed landscape is leading newsrooms to find new ways to build community. Outlets like The Texas Tribune are creating their own online platforms to foster dialogue among readers and build deeper engagement with local audiences. Media company Scripps is attempting to modernize and reshape local news by significantly expanding local newsrooms, especially in small and midsized markets.
Antitrust Inquiries Expand to AI and Advertising
Federal regulators are expanding antitrust inquiries into AI. Chipmaker Nvidia has been subpoenaed by the U.S. Department of Justice as part of an investigation into potential breaches of export controls related to its high-performance chips that power AI systems. The probe adds to growing scrutiny of Nvidia’s market power as it continues to lead the rapidly expanding AI industry.
The recent federal ruling declaring Google a search monopoly could have big implications for the world of tech and AI. Google’s antitrust defeat is drawing attention to tech companies that control critical AI technologies and infrastructure. Google is facing an additional antitrust trial, set to begin September 9, that will focus on potential violations regarding its ad tech.
Sequence Summaries: Tool Tradeoffs, Local Lens, and AI Antitrust
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