In a direct message to the world’s biggest tech companies, News Corp CEO Robert Thomson warned that artificial intelligence firms are making a "fundamental miscalculation" by focusing their investments on infrastructure while ignoring the true value of content.
Speaking at The Wall Street Journal Tech Live conference, Thomson criticized the imbalance between the billions being spent on AI chips, data centers, and models—and the relatively little being paid to content creators and media companies.
He also said that quality journalism and creativity remain irreplaceable assets, even in the AI era.
This warning resonates across industries—from newsrooms to solo creators, from podcasting to video and music. As generative AI tools become more sophisticated, the demand for high-quality, rights-cleared content is rising. But without proper compensation and recognition, creators risk being pushed out of the value chain.
Thomson's comments are part of a broader industry pushback against AI’s unchecked use of copyrighted material. Media companies like News Corp and The New York Times have started negotiating or taking legal action to ensure their IP isn't exploited without consent.
For small businesses, content teams, and creators, the takeaway is clear: owning your content and understanding your rights is more important than ever. As AI tools become central to content creation and discovery, those who control quality assets will hold long-term leverage.
Thomson’s call for ethical, sustainable AI underscores a future where real storytelling still matters—and where creators must be respected as foundational to innovation.
