Marketplace Tech News on social media is now mainstream
Jul 2, 2025
Nic Newman, co-author of the Reuters Institute report at the University of Oxford, discusses the major shift in U.S. news consumption. With traditional television audiences declining, social media has become the primary news source for Americans across all political views. Newman highlights how conservative influencers draw the largest engagement. The conversation also touches on the rise of independent content creators and the challenges of misinformation, revealing a complex landscape where trust and skepticism coexist.
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Social Media Dominates News
- Social media and online video networks have surpassed traditional TV and websites as the main news sources in the US.
- This shift is driven by the rise of the creator economy and personal influencers reaching audiences cheaply.
Creator Economy's Mixed Impact
- The shift to creator-led news offers a broader range of perspectives but risks misinformation.
- Creators range from serious journalists to opinion providers, making the landscape complex.
Video Podcasts and Platforms Rise
- YouTube leads the shift to video news, blending formats like podcasts and talk shows.
- New platforms like Twitch and Substack expand niche and youth-focused news consumption.