The use of artificial intelligence in local news media: A study on barriers and opportunities

This study critically examines how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are utilized within local news media in Turkey, the challenges encountered, and the opportunities they provide. The research is based on asynchronous written semi-structured interviews conducted with 20 local media professionals working in 14 provinces selected from Turkey's seven geographical regions. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis and organized under five main themes: the level of awareness regarding AI, reasons for use, opportunities, risks, and structural barriers faced in local media. The findings reveal that AI technologies are generally employed within local media through individual initiatives and in a limited capacity, while systematic institutional integration remains largely absent. Tools such as ChatGPT, Transkriptor, and similar applications are used for tasks such as headline generation, text editing, and interview analysis; however, the lack of technical infrastructure, high costs, insufficient training, and ethical concerns pose significant obstacles to further development. This study highlights the potential of AI to exacerbate digital inequalities within the local media ecosystem and underscores the necessity of a human-centered and ethical approach to integration.