CNN and Financial Times sign AI deal with Google

CNN has signed a strategic multi-year partnership with Google, which will see the organisation provide enhanced content rights for Google’s generative AI news product pilots.

The agreement is intended to explore how experimental features in Google products can further drive engaged audiences across CNN’s journalism.

The Financial Times, Axios, and more than 400 publications globally have also joined Google's AI news program, Reuters found. Google reportedly said it will pay participating news organisations for their content, and the AI features will come with clear attribution and direct links.

shutterstock_2407965697 (2) (1).jpg — CNN, the Financial Times, Axios, and more than 400 publications globally have now joined Google's AI news program. Credit: Tada Images

“With this partnership we’re unlocking new pathways for audiences to access CNN’s unparalleled journalism while being compensated for the delivery and use of our unique intellectual property in connection with AI products,” said Sam Felix, Senior Vice President, Strategic Partnerships, Business Development, CNN. “Google’s innovation with generative AI has changed how people discover information and content, and now those tools will help us explore new ways to discover and engage audiences.”

According to CNN, the agreement is in line with its AI strategy that ensures the safeguarding of its intellectual property. CNN actively embraces the opportunities AI creates and has multiple commercial partnerships and ongoing discussions with responsible industry players.

At IBC2026, Alex Charalambides, SVP, CTO, CNN, revealed how he is leading the organisation’s transformation as CNN fuses AI into the backbone of its operations. Discover more here.