- AI-powered answers and changing audience habits are causing 'first tremors' in the news industry's digital revenue.
- UK publishers' total digital revenue dropped by 4.55% in Q1 2026, reversing four quarters of growth.
- Despite the overall decline, 62% of publishers saw revenue growth, with the heaviest losses concentrated among a minority vulnerable to ecosystem changes.
- Digital display advertising grew the most (5.06%), driven by premium direct-sold deals and became a top priority for all respondents.
- Online video, sponsorship, and subscriptions saw modest growth, while 'miscellaneous' revenue (including AI licensing) declined sharply due to AI substitution.
- AI summarization reduces click-through rates: only 26% of ChatGPT users and 34% of Google AI Overview users click media links, confirming the importance of verified publisher content for AI trust.
- Publishers are increasingly prioritizing cost reductions and acquisitions, signaling economic turbulence.