tech
UK plans to give established media more visibility on YouTube and TikTok
Move for greater prominence on social media comes as ministers warn online misinformation risk becoming ‘existential for our democracy’
TL;DR
- UK government plans to increase prominence of established broadcasters and media companies on digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
- Ministers warn that online misinformation poses an existential threat to democracy.
- Proposals suggest algorithms should promote content from entities like the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4, with special consideration for times of crisis.
- The government is consulting on extending greater prominence to local and national newspapers, labeling them as 'trustworthy providers'.
- Tech companies and creator economy figures have expressed skepticism about artificially boosting traditional media.
- Proposals also include safeguarding major sporting events from paywalls and potential digital TV switchover by 2034 or 2044.