Associated Press Expands into Live Streaming Video

The Associated Press (AP) is significantly enhancing its digital presence by launching live streaming video shows, marking a strategic shift from its traditional role as a wire service primarily serving newspapers. This move aims to engage a broader audience and cultivate a direct-to-consumer segment, particularly through platforms like YouTube. The AP's executives believe that their extensive global newsgathering capabilities can be leveraged to attract viewers who may not typically encounter their reporting.

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Historically, the AP has been recognized for providing news content to print media, which now constitutes less than 10% of its overall revenue. In contrast, the majority of its income is derived from broadcasters, digital outlets, and non-media clients, such as technology companies. This evolution reflects a broader trend in the media landscape, where traditional boundaries between print and digital are increasingly blurred. Competitors like Bloomberg and Reuters have long utilized video, prompting the AP to explore similar avenues to remain relevant and financially viable.

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Giovanna Dell’Orto, an AP reporter, exemplifies the organization's new direction as she transitioned from traditional reporting to hosting live video segments. Julie Pace, the AP's executive editor, emphasizes that the organization is not attempting to replicate the style of major broadcast networks but rather aims to provide an immersive experience that combines live reporting with contextual commentary. Mark Feldstein, a journalism professor, notes that the AP's extensive international reach positions it well to capitalize on this new revenue stream.

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Julie Pace stated, “We are trying to fill a void for people who want to have what is almost an immersive live video experience.” She further clarified that the AP intends to maintain a focus on fact-based journalism, avoiding partisan commentary. Jack Auresto, deputy Washington Bureau chief, highlighted the success of their video efforts, noting that coverage of the 2024 presidential election attracted over 13 million viewers.

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Despite the promising outlook, some critics express skepticism regarding the AP's ability to transition effectively into video. Concerns center around the potential dilution of journalistic integrity and the challenge of maintaining a distinct identity in a crowded media space. Critics argue that the AP must navigate the fine line between engaging content and the risk of sensationalism that often accompanies live broadcasts.

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• “We have real reporters, not television anchors, not commentators. These are real political reporters who are telling us in real time what they are seeing and what they are hearing. We will want to keep the focus on fact-based journalism and keep focus on the live content.” — Mark Feldstein, Chairman of the Broadcast Journalism Program, University of Maryland

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• “We don’t want a constant stream of dialogue, nothing that is partisan or even overtly political, not anything that is sort of minute-by-minute play by play,” — Julie Pace, Executive Editor, Associated Press

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• “If there are breaking news events that happen on the day of the show we are working, we will ask about it,” — Anthony McCartney, Entertainment and Lifestyles Editor, Associated Press

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As the AP continues to develop its live streaming capabilities, it plans to explore various formats and topics, including coverage of significant events and breaking news. The organization aims to refine its approach to ensure that its video content remains informative and engaging while upholding its commitment to factual reporting.

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