The New York Times is actively integrating generative AI tools into its operations, enabling both editorial and regular staff members to use them for a variety of tasks. An internal letter sent to employees announced the launch of a new internal tool called Echo, which assists in preparing article summaries and other materials. The team has also gained access to a range of AI products for creating web products and developing editorial ideas.
Editorial staff are encouraged to use AI for editing, generating social media posts, SEO headlines, and research assistance. However, there are restrictions—AI must not be used for writing or substantially editing articles, nor for inputting confidential information.
Among the approved tools for use are GitHub Copilot as a programming assistant, Google Vertex AI for product development, NotebookLM, as well as some products from Amazon and OpenAI. These tools are intended to support the development of editorial materials, but the main focus remains on human oversight and responsibility for content.
The implementation of AI is taking place against the backdrop of The New York Times’ lawsuit against OpenAI and Microsoft, in which the publisher accuses the companies of copyright infringement by using its content to train generative AI.
