The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism has released its annual Journalism, Media, and Technology Trends and Predictions 2026 report. The report highlights major changes facing the global news industry as digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) transform how news is produced, shared, and read.
Based on a wide survey of media executives, editors, and newsroom leaders the report shows that media is going through a deep transformation. Publishers are struggling with declining search traffic while AI tools give users direct answers without visiting news websites. Many traditional referral models driven by search engines are weakening.
The report finds that publishers are changing their content strategies. They are focusing more on original reporting, investigative journalism, and in-depth analysis rather than general news that AI platforms can easily summarise. Many organisations plan to focus on formats that AI cannot summarise easily, such as video, long features, and exclusive on-the-ground reporting.
Media leaders are also worried about the future of search and referral traffic. The report suggests search-driven visits will continue to decline. Newsrooms are exploring other ways to reach audiences, including subscriptions, social media partnerships, and content designed for direct engagement rather than search visibility.
AI adoption in newsrooms is growing quickly. Many organisations are using machine learning tools for automated production, summarisation, audience analytics, and personalised content distribution. But concerns remain over reliability, editorial control, and the ethics of widespread automation in journalism.
Experts say the 2026 outlook marks a turning point for journalism. Innovation and adaptation will be key to maintaining quality journalism and economic stability in a fast-changing technological world.
