Meta Inks an AI-Focused Deal with Reuters — Just Months After Reaching an AI-Related Accord with UMG

Photo Credit: Mark Zuckerberg by Anthony Quintano / CC by 2.0

Facebook parent company Meta inks a deal with Reuters to include their news content in responses from its AI chatbot.Facebook’s parent company Meta has announced a multi-year deal with Reuters to include the news platform’s content in responses from its AI chatbot. Starting today, users of Meta’s AI chatbot in the US will have access to “real-time news and information from Reuters when they ask questions about news or current events,” according to an initial report from Axios.

The company’s AI chatbot is integrated into the search and messaging features across its apps, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp.

According to a response from the chatbot when asked by TheWrap about the deal, “The partnership is a significant move for Meta, marking its first major AI news deal, and will enable users to access trustworthy information directly within the chatbot.”

“While most people use Meta AI for creative tasks, deep dives on new topics, or how-to assistance, this partnership will help ensure a more useful experience for those seeking information on current events,” said a Meta spokesperson.

According to Axios, Meta’s AI chatbot will cite Reuters’ stories in its answers and provide links to the outlet’s content. Reuters will be compensated for its reports.The deal comes on the heels of Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg saying his company would strike up partnerships to bolster its AI responses. This includes an expanded global agreement with Universal Music Group earlier this year, which included framework for addressing “unauthorized AI-generated content.”

Meta has also been in talks with Apple for a generative AI partnership despite the two companies’ longstanding rivalry. While those discussions are not concrete, it’s notable that several companies are also courting Apple as the EU continues its battle to open the company’s “walled garden” approach to managing its App Store.