×
The NYT was developing its own internal AI chatbot in 2023, internal messages reveal
Written by
Published on
Join our daily newsletter for breaking news, product launches and deals, research breakdowns, and other industry-leading AI coverage
Join Now

Breaking news development: The New York Times was developing its own ChatGPT-like tool in 2023, according to evidence revealed in ongoing legal proceedings between Microsoft and the media company.

Legal discovery details: Microsoft’s court filings in its AI copyright dispute with The New York Times have uncovered internal Slack messages that provide insights into the media company’s AI development plans.

  • The messages show NYT’s product team instructing developers to avoid using external large language models (AI systems that can understand and generate human-like text)
  • This directive was given because the company was preparing to roll out its own internal AI system
  • The timing of these communications occurred in 2023, during a period of rapid AI tool development across the media industry

Current context: The revelation emerges amid broader tensions between traditional media organizations and technology companies over AI training data and copyright issues.

  • Microsoft and The New York Times are currently engaged in a legal battle over the use of copyrighted content for AI training
  • The tech giant is pressing for additional discovery regarding how Times reporters utilize chatbot technology
  • This internal AI development could potentially relate to other AI tools The Times has since announced publicly

Looking ahead: While the exact nature and current status of the NYT’s internal AI tool remains unclear, this development suggests major media companies are actively pursuing their own AI capabilities rather than solely relying on third-party solutions, potentially reshaping the dynamics between media organizations and tech companies in the AI era.

The NYT was building an ‘internal ChatGPT equivalent’ in 2023.

Recent News

IAG’s AI system cuts aircraft maintenance planning from weeks to minutes

The system runs millions of daily scenarios to avoid costly grounded aircraft emergencies.

Trump secures China rare earth deal while escalating AI competition

The White House frames dependency on Chinese minerals as an existential threat.

Coatue research reveals AI is creating a “great separation” between winners and losers

High-growth companies command 13x revenue multiples versus 4x for slower growers.