Exploring AI media. Definitions, conceptual model, research agenda

Abstract

Given the rising interest in AI-generated and synthetic media, the goal is to synthesise trending topics on how AI technology and media operation converge. A review of 2727 records from 13 international academic/non-academic databases is analysed through topic model-ling and data scanning for exploratory analysis. The interpretation of the results allows a proposal of the “AI media” concept framing social-news-artificial-fake-service media phenomena leading to an extended or AI mediatisation. This study identifies fundamental chal-lenges including trust and ethics, privacy safeguards, and the sustain-ability of AI ecosystems. The proposed conceptual model, definitions, and research agenda contribute to a comprehensive understanding of this emerging field. The study supports academic inquiry and policymaking with precise terminology and a forward-looking view that also considers the hype around generative AI.