Social media and video platforms are now the primary sources of news for over half of Americans, according to recent research from the Reuters Institute. Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube have surpassed traditional TV—which is at 50%—and news websites or apps at 48%. The study indicates that this trend isn't just confined to the US; however, the pace and impact here are notably significant.
Prominent podcaster Joe Rogan stands out, with nearly a quarter of respondents reporting recent exposure to his content. This rising influence marks a significant challenge for conventional journalism, as politicians increasingly prefer to engage with friendly online figures rather than traditional media.
The report notes that while these personalities are popular, nearly half (47%) of respondents also associate them with misleading information—equally concerning as the political landscape. Additionally, usage of X for news continues to rise, particularly among right-leaning audiences since Elon Musk's takeover in 2022.
Emerging platforms like Threads and Bluesky are struggling to capture significant news audiences, with TikTok now recognized as the fastest-growing news source globally, used by 17% of individuals.
Interestingly, reliance on AI chatbots for news is rising, especially among younger users, but overall, many believe AI compromises transparency and trust. The comprehensive 14th annual report surveyed close to 100,000 individuals across 48 nations, reflecting these evolving news consumption habits.
