Future of Media
The magazine begins by examining the global media ecosystem, showing how traditional TV and radio are making way for streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. It also highlights how international news agencies are using data and AI to deliver news faster across borders, illustrating the rapid evolution of news gathering and sharing worldwide.
This edition also focuses on how technology is reshaping media. Stories explore how AI-powered chatbots and deepfakes are raising ethical questions for newsrooms, while algorithms decide which stories get seen, influencing public discourse. The rise of short-form videos on TikTok, Reels and Shorts demonstrates how storytelling is becoming quicker and more viral, challenging long-form journalism formats.
Regional stories from the Middle East, particularly Oman, reveal how traditional values are blending with digital innovation, transforming media outlets. Arabic content, from Netflix to TikTok, is gaining prominence globally, opening new cultural avenues.
The magazine also tackles serious issues such as misinformation, censorship and the crucial role of community journalism in maintaining trust and democracy. It discusses how careers are evolving with influencer culture, changes in journalism education and increased women's representation in Arab media.
Overall, this edition offers vital insights into the power, platforms and future of media.
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Observer
19 hours ago
- Observer
Short-Form Supremacy: How TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts Changed Storytelling
In the age of information overload, brevity is power. The meteoric rise of short-form video platforms—TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts—has reshaped not only how we consume content but also how we tell stories. Once, a compelling narrative demanded time and attention; now, it must compete for a swipe, a like, and a few precious seconds of someone's scrolling. This shift has had seismic effects on storytelling, from how creators engage audiences to how legacy institutions like newspapers and broadcasters reconsider their roles in the digital age. TikTok's global dominance is supported by figures: as of January 2024, TikTok had over 1.56 billion monthly active users worldwide, according to Statista (2024). The average user spends around 95 minutes a day on the app (DataReportal, 2024), a staggering amount of screen time that has prompted creators to distil their stories into fast, engaging formats. Its success has led Instagram and YouTube to prioritise short-form videos through Reels and Shorts, respectively. YouTube Shorts, for example, exceeded 70 billion daily views by mid-2023 (Google, 2023). Renowned local influencer Sultan Al Balushi explained, 'Social media plays a huge role nowadays; people read less and watch more. There's a trust that comes from seeing something visually. With platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, storytelling needs to be more immediate and relatable. You're not just telling a story any more; you're showing it. That shift has changed how we connect with audiences — attention spans are shorter, but the emotional impact can be greater if you get it right.' In the Gulf, the rise is equally notable. In Oman, TikTok had approximately 1.1 million active users by early 2024, accounting for nearly 20% of the population (DataReportal, Oman 2024). In Saudi Arabia, over 26 million TikTok users have been recorded, with a penetration rate of 73% — making it one of the platform's strongest markets globally (Statista, 2024). Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts are also thriving, especially among users aged 18–34, who form the digital core of the GCC's population. Short-form video has redefined storytelling. Traditional narrative arcs have been condensed or reimagined, replaced by bursts of mood, visuals, and relatability. A 15-second skit in an Omani dialect or a drone shot of a remote wadi can now convey a richer sense of place than lengthy travel articles. These micro-narratives thrive on aesthetic and emotional resonance, rather than conventional structure. Equally transformative is who gets to tell the story. In Oman, social creators and a new generation of local influencers have built digital communities showcasing humour, nature, and regional pride, often in both Arabic and English. Their success reflects a wider regional trend, where democratisation of content creation has allowed voices from small towns to reach a global audience without institutional backing. According to a Statista Global Consumer Survey (2023), more than 50% of Gen Z users in the MENA region prefer discovering content via TikTok or Instagram over traditional media channels. These platforms are becoming entry points not just for entertainment but also for awareness, activism, and community-building. In Oman, initiatives such as turtle conservation, local crafts, and anti-plastic campaigns have gained traction through Reels and Shorts, often reaching audiences that traditional outreach cannot. Short-form video is particularly suited to our distracted, mobile-first lifestyles. A study by Microsoft Canada suggested that the average human attention span has fallen to around 8 seconds in the digital age (Microsoft, 2015). TikTok's internal data supports this trend: videos under 30 seconds consistently perform better in terms of completion and sharing (TikTok for Business, 2023). The format also bridges linguistic and cultural divides. In Oman and the wider Gulf, creators often alternate between Arabic and English, with subtitles making content more inclusive. This fluidity helps local stories resonate globally. For example, traditional Omani music or fashion becomes viral, not just as cultural heritage, but as part of global trend cycles—remixed, duetted, and restaged by users worldwide. Long-form journalism, however, faces growing challenges. Traditional media outlets are contending with a new wave of content creators who can break down complex stories in under a minute. According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report (2023), over 60% of users under 35 prefer to consume news via video—especially short formats—rather than lengthy articles or traditional broadcasts. In Oman, this trend is reflected by younger audiences turning more to platforms like TikTok for explanations and Instagram for quick headline updates. This doesn't mean long-form journalism is obsolete. Deep investigations, policy analysis, and multi-source reporting still matter — perhaps more than ever. But the path to engaging audiences now often begins on platforms designed for short, visual bursts. Newsrooms are adapting their strategies accordingly. International examples such as The Washington Post's TikTok account (which now has over 1.6 million followers) demonstrate that it's possible to tell substantial stories in playful, digestible formats. Similar initiatives are emerging in the Gulf, involving Arabic-language explainers and cross-platform storytelling strategies to reach younger, digital-savvy audiences. However, short-form content also introduces risks. Misinformation can spread rapidly, exploiting the speed and emotional appeal of these platforms. A landmark MIT study revealed that false news is 70% more likely to be retweeted and spreads six times as fast as truth on social media (Vosoughi et al., Science, 2018). To counter this, Gulf countries have introduced stricter digital regulations. In Oman, Royal Decree 12/2011 on cybercrime (updated in 2018) criminalises the dissemination of false information that could disturb public order, with penalties including fines and imprisonment. The UAE's Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021 further criminalises fake news, imposing up to two years' imprisonment and fines of AED 100,000, and requiring social media influencers to register with authorities. Saudi Arabia's Anti-Cybercrime Law enforces similar penalties, with fines reaching SAR 3 million and up to five years' imprisonment for online misinformation. Kuwait's Electronic Media Law mandates registration for digital publishers, while Qatar's Penal Code amendments criminalise spreading false news—both with potential jail terms of up to five years. These laws reflect a regional consensus: viral content must be held accountable. There's also the danger of oversimplification. Complex issues—such as labour reforms, climate policies, or foreign relations—are often reduced to punchy soundbites. Moreover, cultural sensitivities need to be considered; missteps can provoke backlash or legal repercussions in tightly knit societies. Yet, the answer is not to reject short-form storytelling, but to evolve alongside it. The future lies in hybrid formats—TikTok videos that lead into podcasts, Reels that serve as visual abstracts of feature articles, or Shorts that tease full-length documentaries. Skillful producers are learning to connect formats and craft narratives that span multiple platforms, creating a cohesive story ecosystem. Audiences—especially the youth—are not disengaged; they are simply consuming content in ways that reflect their lifestyles: on the move, socially embedded, and visually oriented. The challenge for storytellers is not whether storytelling still matters, but how quickly they can deliver compelling narratives—and whether those stories leave an impact once the scroll stops. In conclusion, short-form video has revolutionised storytelling in the Gulf and beyond, matching our increasingly fast-paced and digitally connected lives. While it brings new opportunities for engagement and diversity of voices, it also demands responsibility and innovation. Embracing hybrid storytelling models and upholding journalistic integrity can ensure that the power of storytelling continues to thrive amid the rapid currents of digital change.
Observer
19 hours ago
- Observer
A Look at the Decline of Traditional TV and Radio and the Rise of Multi-Platform Media
In the last two decades, the media landscape has undergone a profound transformation. What was once dominated by traditional TV and radio has given way to a dynamic, fragmented, and highly personalized ecosystem of multi-platform media. This shift has not only changed how people consume content, but also redefined the very nature of media itself—from linear programming and passive consumption to on-demand access and active engagement. The decline of traditional broadcasting and the rise of digital platforms is more than a trend; it is a fundamental reordering of information, entertainment, and culture. The Erosion of Traditional TV and Radio Traditional television and radio, for decades the mainstay of global communication and entertainment, are experiencing a slow but steady decline. Several factors have contributed to this erosion: technological advancement, demographic changes, and evolving consumer expectations. Linear programming, the hallmark of traditional TV and radio, no longer aligns with the needs of modern audiences. Viewers today prefer content on their own schedules, not dictated by a network's timetable. The era when families gathered at 8 p.m. to watch the nightly news or prime-time dramas has been replaced by binge-watching Netflix, catching up on YouTube playlists, or streaming music on Spotify. Demographics play a critical role in this shift. Younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, grew up with the internet and smartphones. They are digital natives, fluent in the use of apps, streaming services, and social media. According to numerous surveys, people under 35 consume far more digital content than traditional broadcasts. Even among older adults, there is growing adoption of digital media platforms. Advertising revenue, once a reliable stream for TV and radio broadcasters, has followed the audiences. Companies now prefer placing ads on digital platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram, where targeting is precise and measurable. Traditional media's broad but vague reach cannot compete with the data-driven marketing strategies of online platforms. The result: declining ad revenues and reduced budgets for traditional broadcasters. The Rise of Multi-Platform Media As traditional media wanes, multi-platform media—defined by its accessibility across various digital devices and networks—has emerged as the dominant form of content delivery. This includes social media, streaming services, podcasts, blogs, and online news outlets. Content is no longer confined to one format or device. A single show can live on cable, stream on-demand, be clipped on TikTok, and spark discussions on Reddit. One of the most significant aspects of multi-platform media is personalization. Algorithms on platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify recommend content based on user behavior, ensuring a more engaging and relevant experience. This kind of personalization is impossible in traditional formats, which treat all viewers or listeners as a homogeneous mass. Interactivity is another hallmark of multi-platform media. Audiences are no longer passive recipients of content—they are participants. They comment, share, remix, and even create their own media. Livestreaming platforms like Twitch and TikTok Live offer real-time interaction between creators and audiences, blurring the lines between consumer and producer. Moreover, the barriers to entry in content creation have drastically lowered. Unlike the expensive, regulated world of TV and radio broadcasting, digital platforms allow almost anyone to become a creator. This democratization of media has led to a proliferation of voices and perspectives, many of which were historically marginalized in traditional media. The Impact on Culture and Society The decline of traditional media and the rise of multi-platform systems have far-reaching implications for culture, politics, and identity. On one hand, we now have a richer, more diverse media environment than ever before. Independent journalists, niche content creators, and underrepresented communities have found platforms to share their stories and build audiences. On the other hand, the fragmentation of media has led to a more polarized society. In the past, traditional media acted as a shared cultural experience—everyone watched the same news, the same shows. Now, people often exist in algorithmic bubbles, where their media diets are tailored to their existing beliefs and preferences. This has raised concerns about echo chambers, misinformation, and the erosion of a common public discourse. The economic implications are also significant. Traditional media companies have had to adapt or perish. Some have embraced digital transformation, launching their own streaming platforms or integrating social media strategies. Others have struggled to remain relevant, unable to compete with the speed and agility of newer tech-driven platforms. For creators, the new landscape offers both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, there's more freedom and fewer gatekeepers. On the other, monetization is complex and often unstable. Algorithms change, platforms rise and fall, and creators are subject to policies they don't control. The Hybrid Future: Integration Over Replacement It would be inaccurate to declare the death of TV and radio outright. Instead, what we're witnessing is a convergence of old and new media. Traditional broadcasters are increasingly adopting multi-platform strategies: television shows are now live-tweeted, news reports are shared on Instagram Stories, and radio programs are repackaged as podcasts. The distinction between 'traditional' and 'digital' is becoming increasingly blurred. Public broadcasters, like the BBC or NPR, have shown how traditional institutions can successfully integrate digital practices. They offer live streams, podcasts, YouTube clips, and social media engagement while maintaining journalistic integrity and public trust. Similarly, smart TVs and digital radio illustrate the hybrid nature of today's media consumption. People may still watch linear TV or listen to FM radio, but often through smart devices that offer access to streaming apps and on-demand content. It's no longer a question of either/or but rather how these formats can coexist and complement each other. Conclusion The shift from traditional TV and radio to multi-platform media represents one of the most dramatic transformations in the history of communication. Driven by technological innovation and changing consumer behaviors, the new media ecosystem is defined by personalization, interactivity, and accessibility. While this has led to a democratization of content and a wider array of voices, it has also introduced challenges around fragmentation, misinformation, and sustainability. As media continues to evolve, the focus should not be on preserving old forms for nostalgia's sake, but on integrating the best aspects of traditional media—such as trust, editorial standards, and shared cultural moments—with the innovation and inclusivity of digital platforms. The future of media is not in silos, but in synergy. The real question is not whether TV or radio will survive, but how they will adapt—and how we, as a society, will navigate the opportunities and responsibilities of this new media age.
Observer
2 days ago
- Observer
Revolutionising Arabic in the Digital World
Arabic is one of the world's oldest and most beautiful languages, holding a profound cultural and religious significance across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. As one of the six official languages of the United Nations, it plays a vital role in global diplomacy and international relations. Despite its importance, Arabic content online makes up less than 1% of all digital information, highlighting a significant gap in digital accessibility for speakers and learners worldwide. This challenge is not unique to Arabic; many historically rich languages face similar hurdles amid rapid technological advancement. However, efforts to enhance Arabic's presence in the digital realm underscore a broader global movement towards linguistic diversity, cultural preservation, and inclusive communication. 3058901 Across the globe, countries and organizations are investing in digital initiatives to safeguard and promote their linguistic heritage. For instance, China has ramped up investments in Mandarin language technology, while India bolsters Hindi and other regional languages through AI-powered translation and speech recognition tools. Latin, a historic language of academia and religion, is also experiencing a digital renaissance by digitizing ancient texts and creating accessible learning platforms. These collective efforts demonstrate a worldwide recognition that digital integration is vital for sustaining linguistic diversity and fostering cross-cultural understanding. In this context, organizations like Ebanah, based in Oman, are pioneering efforts to harness advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) to support Arabic in the digital age. Their goal is to develop tools that make Arabic more accessible, useful, and engaging for users globally, whether they are scholars, students, or everyday learners. This approach not only preserves the language but also expands its reach—aligning with the global movement to digitize and democratize cultural heritage. Picture5 One of their flagship projects, Al Khalil, is an interactive online Arabic learning platform offering courses, tools, and rich content for learners of all ages. Similarly, Tashkeel, an AI-powered diacritic tool, helps add correct vocalization to Arabic text—an essential component for proper pronunciation and comprehension—boasting over 95% accuracy. These innovations support international efforts to make Arabic more functional in digital media, publishing, and education. Moreover, Ebanah has developed Arabic-enabled chatbots for institutions and businesses worldwide, enabling natural, real-time communication in Arabic. Such tools facilitate not only commerce and customer service but also contribute to intercultural dialogue and understanding—crucial elements in today's interconnected world. Of course, developing these technologies presents challenges. Arabic's rich morphology, complex grammar, and numerous dialects require high-quality, culturally authentic data to train effective AI models. As Salim Al Mnathari, CEO of Ebanah, emphasizes, 'AI should serve to support and enhance Arabic, not compromise its richness. Our goal is to develop solutions that respect the language's depth and tradition while making it more accessible in today's digital environment.' This sentiment reflects a global recognition that technological innovation must be culturally sensitive and inclusive. Picture7 International collaboration plays a critical role in these efforts. Ebanah partners with cultural, academic, and tech institutions worldwide to ensure their AI models accurately reflect genuine Arabic usage, emphasizing the importance of local linguistic expertise in global AI development. These partnerships are vital for developing reliable, culturally authentic tools that serve both regional and international needs. Picture9 Looking ahead, the future of Arabic in the digital space is promising, paralleling global movements to digitize and revitalize endangered and heritage languages. Technology alone cannot achieve this; it requires a supportive environment across education, media, governance, and business sectors. As the world progresses towards a more connected and inclusive digital era, Arabic's preservation and growth will contribute to cultural diversity and mutual understanding on a global scale. Ebanah's work exemplifies how innovative technology can be a powerful force for cultural preservation and modernization. By investing in smart solutions, fostering international collaboration, and respecting linguistic roots, they are helping Arabic not only maintain its historical richness but also thrive in the digital future. This approach aligns with global efforts to ensure that linguistic diversity remains a vital part of our digital and cultural landscape, demonstrating that language, technology, and culture can evolve hand-in-hand.
