Is social media now the primary gateway for news globally?

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Social media and video networks are now the most widely used source of news globally
Yes. The Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2026 says that for the first time, social media and video network consumption is ahead of other news sources as the most widely used way to get news worldwide, with 54 per cent of all audiences using it.
Social media and video overtook other news sources for the first time in 2026
The report frames 2026 as a milestone because it marks the first time social media and video networks lead overall news consumption globally. It also notes that this shift is part of a broader move away from traditional news publishers.
AI chatbots, video platforms, and creator-led content are changing the news mix
The report highlights growing reliance on AI chatbots for news, with 10 per cent of people using AI chatbots for news, up from 7 per cent last year. It also points to increased news video consumption, especially among younger audiences, as social media platforms become a primary gateway for news.
Facebook remains the biggest platform, while TikTok and Instagram are fastest-growing
While Facebook is identified as the biggest platform overall for news consumption, TikTok and Instagram are described as the fastest-growing video-led networks driving much of the change. YouTube is also named as part of the set of video platforms linked to the shift.
Declines in TV and news websites signal a drift from traditional channels
The report says the use of both TV news and news organisations’ websites and apps has fallen by 13 per cent and 12 per cent respectively since 2020. It also reports that interest in news and trust in news are falling, with trust dropping overall to 37 per cent, the lowest level since the institute began measuring in 2015.

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Is social media now the primary gateway for news globally?

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