German publishing giant Axel Springer has announced the closure of its news outlet, Upday, signaling a paradigm shift in its approach to journalism. The company revealed plans to relaunch the platform as a cutting-edge AI-driven "trend news generator." This transformation is part of Axel Springer's exploration of the vast opportunities that artificial intelligence presents for the media industry.

The current iteration of Upday is scheduled to cease operations by the end of the year, paving the way for the revamped service, which is anticipated to make its debut in the summer of 2024. Axel Springer, known for its ownership of prominent publications like Bild and Welt, is strategically transitioning from traditional print media to the forefront of digital news. The company expressed enthusiasm about the potential of the new AI product, emphasizing its commitment to leveraging the capabilities and possibilities offered by artificial intelligence.

While this move signals a significant technological leap, it comes at a cost to the existing workforce. A spokesperson confirmed that jobs at Upday are being cut as part of the transformation, with efforts made to explore alternative positions within the Axel Springer group for affected staff. Out of the initial 150-strong workforce, only 70 staff members will remain, as Axel Springer sets the stage for the gradual implementation of the AI-driven UPDAY brand on a smaller scale, starting next year. The strategic shift aligns with Axel Springer's commitment to innovation and adapting to the evolving landscape of digital media.

Originally designed as a news service exclusively for Samsung devices, Upday gained prominence through its pre-installation on Samsung cell phones and other devices following a 2015 deal between Axel Springer and the South Korean tech giant. As the company navigates this transformative phase, the service will remain accessible to users on existing Samsung devices during a transition period lasting over a year. This strategic move underscores Axel Springer's determination to remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving media landscape by embracing the potential of artificial intelligence in journalism.