A growing number of Indian news consumers are turning to generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini for daily news updates, according to the latest findings from the Reuters Institute’s 2024 Digital News Report. The report suggests a shift in news consumption behavior in India, with a growing role for AI tools in delivering information.

The study, which surveyed respondents from 47 countries, highlights a rising use of AI chatbots, influencers, and alternative platforms for accessing news—particularly among younger, digital-first audiences.

Chatbots as News Aggregators

In India, 9% of survey participants reported using generative AI tools like ChatGPT or Google Gemini to access news content in the past week. This figure is above the global average of 7%, indicating that India is among the countries more actively experimenting with AI-driven news formats.

These tools are reportedly being used to access headlines, summaries of current events, and explanations of complex topics in simpler language formats. The usage appears to be concentrated among urban, educated, and English-speaking individuals, many of whom already use chatbots in daily life.

Trust and User Expectations

The report found relatively higher levels of trust among Indian users in AI-generated news content compared to users in some Western markets. While concerns remain around misinformation, accuracy, and editorial transparency, some users cited convenience, ease of access, and explanation simplicity as reasons for turning to AI platforms.

The study also suggests that many Indian respondents believe AI tools are effective in simplifying news explanations, particularly for younger users seeking quick, digestible content formats.

Influence of Non-Traditional Sources

Alongside AI platforms, content creators and influencers on social media are playing a growing role in how Indian audiences access news. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and messaging apps are increasingly being used for news updates, especially among users under 35.

This trend reflects a broader shift in media consumption where audiences are diversifying the sources they rely on for news, with a mix of institutional media, creator-driven content, and AI summaries.

Considerations for News Publishers

The report suggests that these shifts present new challenges for traditional media outlets. With attention divided across multiple platforms—including AI interfaces—publishers may need to reconsider how they deliver content and maintain relevance.

Some Indian news organizations have begun to explore the integration of AI for summaries and chat interfaces. However, questions remain regarding content verification, editorial standards, and the role of human oversight in automated formats.

Industry observers note that the changing dynamics may influence how publishers develop content strategies, structure headlines, and format stories to align with how AI tools interpret and summarize information.

India’s Digital Environment and AI Readiness

India’s mobile-first internet usage, combined with increasing digital literacy and widespread familiarity with tools like ChatGPT, provides a strong environment for AI-based content interaction.

The Reuters report points out that AI-generated news access is particularly appealing to Gen Z users who are accustomed to on-demand content and multitasking environments. For this demographic, AI tools offer speed, simplicity, and a format that aligns with their digital preferences.

Outlook for News Consumption Trends

As more users experiment with AI tools for news and information, India’s news ecosystem may continue to evolve in terms of formats, platforms, and user behavior. The growth of AI-generated summaries and alternative content channels may prompt further innovation among publishers and technology providers.

Ongoing developments in content governance, accuracy standards, and AI transparency are expected to shape how this trend unfolds. For now, India’s growing engagement with AI in the news space marks a notable development in the intersection of journalism, technology, and audience behavior.