The Associated Press (AP) is threatening legal action against those who use its content without permission, sparking debate over the future of news distribution. AP’s aggressive stance is seen by some as a negotiating bluff, aimed at generating more revenue from online news aggregators. The organisation’s strategy is to charge these aggregators for using AP content, thereby increasing its profitability. Critics argue that this approach is flawed, as it fails to recognise the value of inbound links to AP’s own sites. These links can drive significant traffic, boosting advertising revenue and enhancing the AP brand.
AP’s stance is also criticised for being out of touch with the realities of the digital age. The internet has transformed the way news is consumed, with many people now accessing news through social media and other online platforms. This shift in consumption habits has led to a decline in the traditional newspaper business model, which relied on print advertising revenue. AP’s attempt to charge for content may therefore be seen as a desperate move to maintain its revenue stream in a changing media landscape.
Despite AP’s threats, many believe that the organisation will ultimately have to adapt to the new realities of the digital age. This could involve embracing the benefits of online distribution, rather than attempting to restrict it. As the debate continues, the future of news distribution remains uncertain.
Go to source article: http://www.techcrunch.com/2009/10/09/you-can-ignore-the-aps-bluster-it-is-just-a-negotiating-bluff/