Meta AI Inks Deals with Publishers for Real

Meta has struck data deals with major news publishers. The announcement was made on Friday, December 5, 2025. The partnerships aim to provide real-time news within Meta’s AI chatbot.

This move marks a significant shift for the social media giant. The company is now paying publishers for content access after previously stepping back from news. According to TechCrunch, this data will help make Meta AI more responsive and accurate.

Shifting Strategy: From News Tab to AI Engine

Meta is partnering with a specific group of media companies. Partners include CNN, Fox News, and USA Today. The Daily Caller, The Washington Examiner, and Le Monde Group are also involved.

These agreements grant Meta AI real-time access to news content. When users ask news-related questions, the chatbot will provide summaries. It will also include links directly to the publishers’ full articles.

This approach serves two main purposes. It aims to improve the chatbot’s knowledge of current events. It also helps publishers reach new audiences directly through AI interactions.

The Broader AI Race and Publisher Relations

The deal comes amid fierce competition in the AI sector. Meta is racing to keep its chatbot relevant against rivals. The company needs high-quality, timely data to train and inform its AI systems.

This represents a notable pivot in Meta’s relationship with news media. The company killed the dedicated Facebook News tab in 2024. It also stopped compensating most publishers for content in 2022.

Now, financial agreements are back on the table. Meta states the goal is to deliver information with diverse viewpoints. The company hopes this improves user trust and engagement with its AI assistant.

This strategic shift underscores the immense value of reliable news data for advancing artificial intelligence. The new Meta AI news deals could redefine how audiences discover current events and how publishers survive in the AI age.

A quick knowledge drop for you

How will these news deals work for users?

When you ask Meta AI a news question, it will generate a response using content from its partner publishers. The answer will include a brief summary and a clickable link to the original article on the publisher’s website.

Why is Meta making these deals now?

Meta needs real-time, accurate data to improve its AI chatbot’s performance. The company is facing stiff competition from other AI assistants and wants its tool to be a go-to source for timely information.

Are publishers being paid for this?

Yes. Meta has signed commercial agreements with the named publishers. This is a reversal from its 2022 position, where it stopped compensating news outlets for content shared on its platforms.

Which publishers are included in the deal?

The initial partners are CNN, Fox News, Fox Sports, and USA Today. The list also includes The Daily Caller, The Washington Examiner, and the Le Monde Group. More partners may be added later.

Where is Meta AI available?

Meta AI is accessible in over 200 countries. You can use it within Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger apps. A standalone Meta AI app is also available.