The CommunicAItor's Digest: Edition 22
Helping communicators stay on top of the world of AI
I feel like we're on a synthetic influencer precipice. This week, we've seen even more compelling evidence of the scale, impact, and perhaps more importantly, the safety, that AI-generated spokespeople can bring. At the same time, it's telling that YouTube has now de-monetized AI-generated videos that have clearly been created automatically (the latest money-making scheme the "crypto-bros" have been pushing). It will be interesting to see how brands adapt to this - even if they don't specifically seek monetization. Transparency and authenticity remain critical aspects of brand trust.
I decided to take a new approach with the newsletter this week - 1500 weekly readers brings its own bit of pressure! How to fill the newsletter with the best, most relevant news but not make it so long that it gets boring?! So you'll see the usual summary and "so what?" but I received a mail from a reader indicating that they use some of this mail as a way to persuade their internal leaders to more roll-out AI more extensively - so I figured some quotes and data points might support this case. Let me know.
Content Creation
AI's New Playbook for Brevity: Less is More in the Inbox
What's happening? A new report highlights that internal communicators are finding success by sending more frequent, shorter emails, with under 500 words being ideal, rather than fewer, lengthy ones. AI tools like Microsoft's Copilot are proving invaluable here, summarizing large texts into concise bullet points. This shift emphasizes that "email overload isn't the number of messages; it's the amount of content in the messages."
What they say: "Email overload isn't the number of messages; it's the amount of content in the messages." - Michael DesRochers, Managing Director of PoliteMail.
Data Point: The average click-through rate for internal communicators is 6.8% [HubSpot, Bananatag Internal Email Benchmarks Infographic].
So what does this mean for you? Leverage AI to distill complex information into digestible snippets. This isn't about replacing your writing, but empowering you to be more strategic and efficient with your messaging. Focus on quality over quantity in terms of content within each piece, ensuring your audience actually consumes your vital information.
Source: PR Daily
YouTube to Demonetize AI-Generated Content
What's happening? Starting July 15, YouTube will no longer allow monetization of videos largely or entirely AI-generated without meaningful human involvement. This policy shift prioritizes authenticity and human creativity on the platform.
What they say: "While the new policy does not ban the use of AI altogether, it makes clear that content must carry significant human input to be monetized through commentary, storytelling, analysis or artistic expression."
Data Point: The global AI video generator market was valued at $317.9 million in 2023 and is projected to reach $1.959 billion by 2030 [Grand View Research].
So what does this mean for you? If your content strategy includes YouTube, ensure your AI-assisted videos incorporate substantial human input to maintain monetization eligibility. Platforms are increasingly valuing authenticity and original creative expression, so adjust your content production accordingly.
Source: Kashmir Life
Google Gemini App Allows Turning Photos into Videos
What's happening? Google has introduced a new feature in its Gemini app, available now to Pro/Ultra subscribers, that allows users to instantly turn still photos into dynamic videos. This leverages AI to animate images, add motion, and create engaging short-form video content directly from a smartphone, expanding accessible creative tools.
What they say: "Turn your photos into videos in Gemini," indicating a new, accessible AI-powered feature for visual content.7 [Google Blog]
Data Point: Short-form video content has an average engagement rate of 6-10% across platforms, making it a highly effective format for capturing attention [Social Media Today].
So what does this mean for you? This new capability makes sophisticated video creation far more accessible. Communicators can quickly transform static images into engaging video snippets for social media, internal announcements, or quick explainers, enhancing visual storytelling without extensive video production resources. It also signals a trend towards more embedded, user-friendly AI in creative applications.
Source: Google Blog
Influencers
From Gandhi to Gen Z: AI Influencers Go Viral, But Can They Go the Distance?
What's happening? AI-generated videos featuring historical figures and unique characters are racking up millions of views on platforms like Instagram, particularly among Gen Z. While this "playful remix of history and pop culture" offers brands new storytelling avenues and potentially lower costs and faster turnarounds, experts caution about the sustainability of their influence. Building a loyal, consistently engaged audience, like human influencers, requires more than novelty.
What they say: "Right now, anyone with access to the right tools can create a viral AI clip featuring a historical figure. But building and sustaining influence (like a human influencer), a loyal audience that engages consistently... requires much more than novelty." - Aditya Gurwara, cofounder and head of brand alliances at Qoruz.
Data Point: The global AI influencer market was projected to reach $6.95 billion in 2024 [HypeAuditor].
So what does this mean for you? While intriguing, approach AI influencers with a strategic eye. They can be powerful for viral moments and niche campaigns, but for long-term brand building and authentic connection, human influencers still hold significant ground. Consider how AI can augment existing strategies rather than completely replace them.
Source: The Economic Times
Top 10 AI Influencers in 2025 and Why They Matter
What's happening? A recent list highlights the top 10 AI influencers making significant impact, collaborating with major brands like Prada, Nike, and Amazon. These AI personalities, like Lu do Magalu, demonstrate high follower counts and engagement.
What they say: "AI influencers have become the new talk of the town. Now, brands and businesses do not only rely on film actors and social media influencers to promote their products and services."
Data Point: Lu do Magalu, a prominent AI influencer, has 7.9 million followers on Instagram [Magalu official Instagram account].
So what does this mean for you? Familiarize yourself with prominent AI influencers. Understanding their appeal and reach can inform your influencer marketing strategies, offering diverse opportunities for brand visibility and engagement.
Source: Digital Gravity
Executive Communications
The Executive's New AI Co-Pilot: Boosting Influence and Clarity
What's happening? AI is rapidly becoming a vital tool for executive communications, enhancing speaking skills and improving internal communication clarity. Studies show that leaders leveraging AI-driven communication tools can significantly improve their speaking abilities, leading to increased team productivity. This points to AI not just as a content generator, but as a performance enhancer for leaders.
What they say: "In fact, studies show that leaders who use AI-driven communication tools improve their speaking skills by up to 40% within just a few months. And companies using AI for internal communication have reported a 25% increase in team productivity and clarity."
Data Point: A survey indicates that 97% of businesses plan to use AI in their customer communications in 2025 [Sinch Global Survey on Customer Communications].
So what does this mean for you? Encourage and equip your executives with AI tools for preparing speeches, presentations, and internal messages. This can refine their delivery, ensure consistent messaging, and free up their time to focus on strategic leadership. The human touch remains paramount, but AI can be the invisible hand supporting their impact.
Source: LPU Blog
Meta Poaches Apple AI Executive in Talent Wars
What's happening? Meta recently hired Apple's head of Foundation Models, Ruoming Pang, for its Superintelligence team. This highlights fierce competition among tech giants for top AI expertise, directly impacting advanced AI communication development.
What they say: "Meta's AI hiring spree has now pulled Apple executive Ruoming Pang into its ranks, with 'tens of millions of dollars' spent on drawing him away from the organization he has worked at since 2021."
Data Point: The global AI market is projected to reach over $1 trillion by 2030 [Grand View Research].
So what does this mean for you? Rapid AI talent acquisition by major tech companies indicates accelerated AI advancements (and probably product integrations, too). Stay informed about breakthroughs from these companies, as they will influence executive communication tools and strategies, including advanced speech refinement and audience analysis capabilities.
Source: The HR Digest
Microsoft Claims AI Saved Over $500 Million in 2024
What's happening? Microsoft's Chief Commercial Officer Judson Althoff revealed that AI tools saved the company over $500 million in 2024, largely through increased productivity in areas like sales, customer service, and engineering. Significant cost reductions were seen in call centers, leading to higher customer and employee satisfaction.
What they say: Althoff highlighted "substantial cost reductions in call centers as a prime example of AI's impact, noting that the technology has also led to increased satisfaction for both employees and customers."
Data Point: Microsoft's AI tools generated approximately 35% of the code for new products, accelerating launch times [Times of India].
So what does this mean for you? This demonstrates concrete ROI for AI adoption at an executive level. For communications, (like this email!) it provides a powerful narrative for advocating AI integration to leadership, focusing on efficiency gains and improved stakeholder satisfaction. Executives should be prepared to communicate such significant impact clearly and transparently.
Source: Times of India
Internal Communications
PoliteMail's 2025 Internal Communications Benchmark Report Insights
What's happening? PoliteMail's latest report, analyzing 4.8 billion internal emails, shows a 64% open rate but a significantly lower 6.8% click-through rate. This indicates employees open emails but often don't engage deeply, emphasizing the need for shorter, more digestible messages.
What they say: "An open rate is the base rate — you've got to measure it to measure anything else... But it's the least actionable measurement." - Michael DesRochers, Managing Director of PoliteMail.
Data Point: A mere 6.8% average click-through rate for internal emails underscores the challenge of maintaining employee engagement beyond just opening a message [PoliteMail 2025 Internal Communications Benchmark Report].
So what does this mean for you? Focus beyond just open rates in your internal comms metrics. Leverage AI to help create more compelling, concise content that encourages actual engagement, such as clicks on links or calls to action. Combine qualitative feedback with quantitative data to truly understand what resonates with your employees.
Source: PR Daily
How Ingram Micro Increased Employee Engagement with AI
What's happening? Ingram Micro successfully used AI and strategic communications to boost employee engagement and enhance internal communications. This case study demonstrates how modern tools can improve how employees receive and interact with company information.
What they say: While specific direct quotes were not available, the implied message is that Ingram Micro achieved positive outcomes in "increased employee engagement and enhanced internal comms" through new strategies.
Data Point: Companies with highly engaged employees report 21% higher profitability than those with low engagement [Gallup].
So what does this mean for you? Look for case studies and best practices from companies successfully integrating AI into their internal communications. Learn from their approaches to employee engagement and adapt them to your own organization's needs, fostering a more connected and informed workforce.
Source: Notified Blog
Corporate Communications
The AI-Human Partnership: The Future of Corporate Communications
What's happening? AI is rapidly streamlining corporate communication, from internal collaboration to customer engagement and content creation. Tools like ChatGPT are expediting the drafting of corporate statements, articles, and speeches. However, the critical takeaway is that AI should enhance human interaction, not replace it. The challenge lies in finding the right balance to leverage AI's efficiency without eroding genuine human connection and authenticity.
What they say: "AI tools like ChatGPT are undeniably changing the way we create content... It would be unrealistic to think that communication teams wouldn't-or shouldn't-be leveraging this technology, especially given the significant benefits in efficiency and cost savings. I've heard ChatGPT described as an 'enthusiastic intern' – you can delegate tasks to it, but it's up to you to review, refine, and add your own touch."
Data Point: A McKinsey study found that organizations with integrated AI communications strategies achieved 31% higher customer satisfaction scores and 28% better employee engagement metrics [McKinsey & Company].
So what does this mean for you? Integrate AI strategically into your corporate communications workflow for tasks like content drafting, sentiment analysis, and data gathering. However, maintain a strong human oversight, ensuring all AI-generated content aligns with your brand voice, values, and, most importantly, maintains an authentic and empathetic tone.
Source: Comprend
The Risk of Not Allowing Employees to Use AI
What's happening? A significant risk in 2025 isn't just AI misuse, but organizations imposing blanket bans on useful AI tools. Experts warn prohibitions can drive AI usage underground, making it harder to monitor and potentially impeding compliance and legal discovery.
What they say: "But the SEC and CFTC off-channel communications sweep suggests that outright bans on useful technology can carry significant risk, and many firms are now choosing to manage the enterprise risk of AI meeting tools by allowing some limited, controlled use within a practical framework that balances business needs with."
Data Point: From 2021 to early 2025, SEC and CFTC investigations into off-channel communications resulted in over $3 billion in penalties [Kirkland & Ellis LLP].
So what does this mean for you? Instead of blanket bans, develop clear guidelines and frameworks for employees' responsible AI use. This proactive approach harnesses AI's benefits for efficiency and innovation while mitigating risks and maintaining compliance oversight.
Source: Debevoise Data Blog
Capgemini Acquires WNS to Strengthen AI Capabilities
What's happening? Capgemini is acquiring IT and analytics firm WNS for $3.3 billion to deepen its enterprise AI offerings. This significant acquisition signals ongoing consolidation in the AI consulting market, highlighting the growing strategic importance of AI expertise for large service providers.
What they say: The acquisition is noted for Capgemini's move to "deepen its enterprise AI offerings," expanding its global delivery footprint and access to industry-specific AI expertise.
Data Point: The global AI services market is projected to reach $100 billion by 2027 [Grand View Research].
So what does this mean for you? As major consulting and IT firms invest heavily in AI capabilities, expect more sophisticated AI tools and strategic guidance to become available. Consider partnering with firms demonstrating strong commitment to AI, as they can help your corporate communications team leverage cutting-edge solutions for data analysis, content strategy, and stakeholder engagement.
Source: Crescendo.ai
Analyst Relations/Investor Relations
AI Reimagines Investor Relations with Deeper Insights
What's happening? AI is revolutionizing Investor Relations by providing unprecedented efficiency and precision in data analysis and investor engagement. Tools using Natural Language Processing (NLP) are now systematically analyzing earnings calls, identifying sentiment trends, guidance language, and recurring topics at scale. This allows IR professionals to gain deeper insights into market sentiment and anticipate investor questions, moving beyond traditional data processing to a more intelligent, proactive approach.
What they say: "For IR professionals, this shift means that communicating with investors is not just about having the right message, but understanding how that message will be received, processed and ranked by AI systems."
Data Point: 44% of investor-relations professionals have already integrated AI into their companies' IR programs [Notified Blog].
So what does this mean for you? Embrace AI tools to analyze financial disclosures, earnings call transcripts, and market sentiment. This will allow you to anticipate investor concerns, refine your messaging, and optimize your communications for both human and AI analysis. The goal is not just to provide information, but to ensure that information is understood and valued in a data-driven investment landscape.
Source: Arbor Advisory Group
CoreWeave: The New Star of AI Infrastructure?
What's happening? CoreWeave, an AI infrastructure provider, saw its stock price soar 250% since its April IPO, driven by AI's computing demands. Despite reporting a significant loss, it has attracted substantial short-selling activity, raising skepticism about its long-term viabililty.
What they say: "CoreWeave represents a fascinating case study in how public markets are valuing companies in the AI gold rush and whether enthusiasm for the sector's potential can sustain such lofty valuations in the face of financial realities."
Data Point: CoreWeave generated $310.6 million in Q2 lending revenue, with $266.3 million in June alone [S&P Global Market Intelligence].
So what does this mean for you? This case highlights the volatility and intense scrutiny of AI investments. For IR professionals, clearly communicate financial fundamentals, growth strategies, and risks, especially for companies in high-growth, high-valuation sectors. Be prepared to address investor questions that go beyond current hype.
Source: S&P Global
AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference Announced
What's happening? An "AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference" on July 10th connected AI and tech companies with investors and analysts. This event underscores increasing interest and investment in the AI sector, making it a critical area for IR professionals to monitor and engage with.
What they say: "Technology and AI companies are transforming how industries operate; and access to capital is critical to support that momentum." - Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President of Corporate Services at OTC Markets Group.
Data Point: Virtual investor conferences have seen a 25% increase in attendance over the past year [IR Magazine].
So what does this mean for you? Stay informed about virtual investor conferences focused on AI and technology. These platforms offer valuable opportunities to understand investor sentiment, identify trends, and connect with stakeholders interested in your company's AI initiatives. Consider participating if your company has a compelling AI narrative.
Source: Financial Content
Crisis Communications
Proactive Protection: AI Fortifies Crisis Communications with Predictive Power
What's happening? AI is becoming an indispensable asset in crisis communications by enabling real-time monitoring of media and social channels for negative sentiment, identifying potential threats before they escalate. Its ability to quickly analyze vast amounts of data helps PR teams understand narratives, tailor responses, and even forecast future crises. While AI automates detection and initial drafts, human judgment remains critical for empathy and authenticity in high-stakes situations.
What they say: "This isn't an occasional challenge anymore; it's a constant and complex backdrop for PR. Coupled with the rapid expansion of our digital landscape, the speed at which minor issues become major controversies is something we have not seen before. For PR teams, shifting from reactive issue management to proactive 'fire-prevention' strategies is crucial."
Data Point: Organizations that establish ethics committees specifically for communications technology report 47% fewer incidents of audience mistrust [McKinsey & Company].
So what does this mean for you? Integrate AI-powered monitoring and analysis tools into your crisis preparedness plans. Use AI to identify emerging issues, track sentiment, and even draft initial response templates. However, always ensure human oversight to infuse empathy, nuance, and strategic judgment, maintaining trust and credibility during challenging times.
Source: PR Daily
AI-171 Crash: Crisis Clarity Urged by Jaideep Mirchandani
What's happening? Following the AI-171 crash in Ahmedabad, Jaideep Mirchandani emphasized the critical need for clear crisis communications and diligent protocols to restore public trust. He advocates for continuous safety checks and AI-based predictive maintenance to prevent future incidents.
What they say: "Clear crisis communications and diligent protocols are needed to restore trust post the AI-171 Crash," and "Instead of relying solely on traditionally scheduled inspections and post-incident repairs, airlines can adopt advanced measures like AI-based predictive maintenance techniques to identify early signs of technical issues before they escalate." - Jaideep Mirchandani.
Data Point: Companies with a well-defined crisis communication plan recover 20% faster from crises compared to those without [Agility PR Solutions].
So what does this mean for you? This event underscores the vital role of transparent, timely crisis communications, especially when AI or technology is involved. Use AI for rapid information gathering, but remember human empathy and clear, consistent messaging are paramount for rebuilding trust. Proactive communication and robust safety protocols are key for both preventing and managing crises.
Source: Sky One
Gregory FCA Debuts CrisisCalm, First AI Platform for Real-Time Crisis Communications
What's happening? Gregory FCA launched CrisisCalm, an AI-driven platform for instant crisis response playbooks and messaging. It aims to significantly cut the time for companies to issue public statements during a crisis, ensuring authentic, consistent, and on-brand content.
What they say: "CrisisCalm's AI engine is trained on thousands of real-world crisis cases and delivers company-specific, audience-ready messaging instantly.58 This is specialized AI crafted for the demands of corporate communicators—whether in boardrooms or newsrooms."
Data Point: Companies typically take 21 hours to release a public statement during a crisis, yet 28% of crises are reported by global media within the first hour [PRNews.io].
So what does this mean for you? Explore AI platforms like CrisisCalm to dramatically shorten your crisis response times. While AI can automate drafts and frameworks, final review and empathetic messaging from your team are still crucial for maintaining trust and effectively navigating a crisis.
Source: Complete AI Training
Disinformation/Misinformation
UN Summit Confronts AI's Dual Nature: Wonders and Warnings
What's happening? The "AI for Good Global Summit" in Geneva (July 8-12, 2025) is convening governments, tech leaders, and civil society to discuss AI's potential for sustainable development while confronting growing risks like inequality and disinformation. The event highlights increasing urgency among policymakers regarding AI's societal implications and the need for global oversight.
What they say: "The biggest risk we face is not AI eliminating the human race. It is the race to embed AI everywhere, without sufficient understanding of what that means for people and our planet." - Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the ITU.
Data Point: An ITU survey found that 85% of countries lack an AI-specific policy or strategy, raising alarms about uneven development and growing digital divides [ITU].
So what does this mean for you? This major UN summit underscores that AI-driven disinformation is a global concern requiring coordinated efforts. Stay informed about international policy discussions and ethical frameworks emerging from such events, as they will shape the environment in which you combat misinformation. Advocate for transparency and responsible AI use within your organization and industry.
Source: UN News
Experts Warn X's AI Fact-Checkers Could Fuel Misinformation
What's happening? Experts are warning that Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter) platform's decision to use AI chatbots to draft "Community Notes" for fact-checking risks increasing the promotion of "lies and conspiracy theories." Critics argue that AI agents might lack nuance and context, potentially amplifying misinformation despite intentions.
What they say: Andy Dudfield, head of AI at Full Fact, stated: "These plans risk increasing the already significant burden on human reviewers to check even more draft notes, opening the door to a worrying and plausible situation in which notes could be drafted, reviewed, and published entirely [by AI]."
Data Point: X (formerly Twitter) has approximately 600 million users globally, indicating the vast reach and potential impact of its fact-checking system [Statista, data from Q2 2024].
So what does this mean for you? Relying solely on AI for fact-checking on platforms carries inherent risks. For communicators, this means that even official "corrections" might be subject to AI-generated errors or biases. Maintain independent verification processes for information on social platforms, and be prepared to address AI-generated misinformation directly, even if it appears to be "fact-checked" by the platform's own AI.
Source: Business & Human Rights Resource Centre (citing The Guardian)
AI-Generated Racist Stereotypes Go Viral on TikTok
What's happening? AI-generated videos featuring racist stereotypes are going viral on TikTok, amassing millions of views. These clips, potentially from tools like Google's Veo 3, target minority groups with harmful tropes, highlighting severe ethical challenges and potential for abuse.
What they say: The Verge reported that "AI-generated videos featuring racist stereotypes are going viral on TikTok, with some amassing over 14 million views, according to watchdog Media Matters."
Data Point: TikTok users spend an average of 95 minutes per day on the app [Omnicore Agency].
So what does this mean for you? This emphasizes the urgent need for robust social media monitoring for AI-generated harmful content. Work with platforms and consider AI detection tools to swiftly identify and address such content. Ethical AI use and promoting digital literacy are critical in combating such misuse.
Source: EU DisinfoLab