- Axel Springer is closing Upday to relaunch it as an AI-driven news generator.
- The transformation involves significant job reductions, affecting journalism jobs.
- This move reflects a broader industry trend towards AI and digital news platforms.
December 9, 2023: In a bold move that signals a significant shift in the media landscape, Axel Springer, a major German publishing house, has announced the closure of its news outlet, Upday.
The outlet is set to be relaunched as an AI-driven trend news generator, marking a pivotal transition from traditional journalism to artificial intelligence-led content creation.
Upday, initially a news service for Samsung devices, will cease its current operations by the end of this year. Since its inception in 2015, Upday has been a key player in European news, pre-installed on Samsung devices and reaching audiences in 34 countries.
This closure is not just the end of a news service but a significant pivot in Axel Springer’s approach to news dissemination.
The reimagined Upday will use AI to generate trend news. “Axel Springer will utilise the Upday brand for a new trend news generator exclusively driven by artificial intelligence,” the company stated.
This move is a testament to the company’s commitment to exploring the potential of AI in journalism, a step that could redefine how news is produced and consumed.
This transition, however, comes with a cost. A spokesperson from Axel Springer confirmed job cuts at Upday, with efforts being made to relocate affected staff within the group. Out of 150 staff members, only 70 remain.
This reduction underscores the broader implications of AI in the workforce, particularly in the field of journalism.
Thomas Hirsch, CEO of UPDAY, expressed anticipation about the possibilities AI brings to the news industry, highlighting the company’s forward-looking vision.
Meanwhile, the service will continue to be available on Samsung devices during the transition, ensuring a seamless changeover for users.
Axel Springer’s strategic shift from print to digital, including its ownership of renowned publications like Bild, Welt, and Politico, further illustrates the industry’s evolution towards digital and AI-driven platforms.
