How the News Media Use X to Gather and Report News

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by John Fisher, PhD

In the fast-evolving world of social media, X (formerly known as Twitter) stands out as a crucial tool for news organizations. With its unique blend of real-time updates, massive user base, and rapid news-sharing capabilities, X has become more than just a platform for conversation—it’s a go-to destination for both newsgathering and reporting. Here’s how news media use X to stay ahead of the curve:

A Hub for News Consumption

X is widely regarded as more of a news destination than most other social media platforms. Many of its users in the United States log on specifically to get the latest updates. According to a Pew Research study, a significant number of X users cite news consumption as one of the key reasons they use the platform. Unlike Instagram or TikTok, where entertainment and lifestyle content dominate, X provides a consistent stream of news updates, making it the ideal platform for staying informed.

Types of News Content

X offers a wide range of news-related content. From opinions on current events to humorous takes on trending topics, users can access a variety of perspectives on the day’s most important stories. One of the platform’s standout features is its ability to deliver real-time information on breaking news as it happens. Whether it’s live-tweeting from a political rally or sharing updates during a natural disaster, X allows users and journalists alike to keep up with events as they unfold.

For example, during the 2021 Capitol riots in Washington, D.C., journalists, politicians, and regular citizens used X to report the chaos in real-time. Within minutes, photos, videos, and updates flooded the platform, providing immediate insight into the unfolding crisis.

A Direct Line to Reliable Sources

While many social media platforms blur the line between news from verified outlets and personal updates from friends or influencers, X stands out in its emphasis on journalistic sources. A majority of Americans who regularly get their news from X are more likely to follow news outlets and journalists than they are to rely on advocacy groups, influencers, or friends and family for updates. This makes X a powerful tool for credible, up-to-the-minute reporting.

For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, health experts, journalists, and news outlets used X to share daily updates on case numbers, government policies, and health advice. The ease of sharing and re-sharing information made it possible for accurate, verified news to reach millions of people instantly.

Breaking News Advantage

One of X’s biggest strengths is its reputation for breaking news. X users are more likely than those on other platforms, like Facebook or TikTok, to encounter breaking news in real-time. Whether it's natural disasters, major political announcements, or celebrity news, the platform’s real-time nature allows users to see updates the moment they happen.

Take the case of the 2015 Paris terror attacks, where news and updates spread rapidly on X even before major news outlets had full reports. Journalists and citizens on the ground were able to share critical updates in real-time, providing a raw, immediate view of the events.

Is X the #1 Source for News?

While X holds a strong position as a primary source for news, especially in breaking news scenarios, its claim as the "number 1" social media source for news comes with some nuances. A 2023 study showed that 53% of X users regularly get news from the platform, making it one of the top sources of news across social media platforms. However, X's user base, with 500 million monthly active users and 245 million daily active users, is still smaller than platforms like Facebook or Instagram.

Additionally, most X users are not exclusive to the platform—99.9% of X users also use other social media platforms to get their news, according to DataReportal’s 2023 data. This suggests that while X plays a key role in news consumption, many users also rely on other platforms to stay informed.

Conclusion

X’s impact on news media cannot be understated. As a primary source for breaking news, real-time updates, and credible journalism, it remains a leading platform in the world of news consumption. Whether it will continue to hold the top spot as the number one social media source for news is still up for debate, but its influence and ability to shape the news cycle are undeniable. As the media landscape continues to evolve, X will likely remain a cornerstone for both journalists and news consumers alike.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/20/2024