Putin deploys AI newsreaders for Kremlin propaganda in October 2024
- The Kremlin is utilizing AI-generated newsreaders to disseminate propaganda on its state-funded television channels.
- These AI presenters, such as Anna, Joy, and Tania, are designed to operate continuously without human errors, amplifying the state's messaging.
- The introduction of these virtual newsreaders raises concerns about the manipulation of information and the detachment from reality in modern media practice.
In Russia, the use of AI-generated newsreaders is increasingly becoming a tool for the Kremlin to spread propaganda. As concerns mount over human presenters potentially deviating from scripted narratives, state-funded TV Channel Russia Today (RT) has introduced lifeless yet meticulously crafted virtual hosts. These AI personas are designed to ensure a consistent and controlled delivery of news, devoid of the unpredictability that can come with human journalists. Among these creations are Anna, Joy, and Tania, who cater to diverse audiences and language demographics, including French, English, and Spanish. The development of these AI presenters marks a significant turning point in how news is reported, particularly under an authoritarian regime. Editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan has publicly acknowledged that a substantial number of RT's presenters are entirely fictional creations generated by artificial intelligence. This revelation emphasizes the extent to which the Kremlin is willing to go to maintain a stronghold on information shared with the public. Critics, including Ukrainian journalist Denys Kazansky, have expressed alarm over the implications of this AI initiative. By manipulating the portrayal of reality through these non-human presenters, the Kremlin aims to maintain a narrative that glorifies its military actions while simultaneously driving home a message of obedience among viewers. This strategy not only reflects a growing reliance on technology in the media landscape but also raises ethical questions regarding the authenticity of information and the role of state control in shaping public perception. The increasing prevalence of AI-driven content production signals a concerning trend in the evolution of modern propaganda.