A news outlet is a source of information about current events, issues, and political matters. News outlets can take many forms, including newspapers, television stations, radio programs, and online news websites. Many of these outlets rely on news agencies for their content, but they may also have their own reporters and editors who gather and produce news stories. News outlets can influence how people perceive a particular event or issue by highlighting certain aspects of it while downplaying others. They can also play a critical role in agenda-setting, suggesting what matters should be taken seriously and what should not.
In a fragmented media environment, Americans turn to a variety of different news outlets. A majority of adults get news at least sometimes from digital devices, with the most common sources being news websites or apps and search engines. About half of Americans get news on social media, with the most popular platforms being Facebook and YouTube. A smaller percentage of people use podcasts and TikTok to get news.
Despite their varied content and audience-specific characteristics, most news outlets share the same core functions of gathering, editing, and disseminating news to the public. They are also subject to a set of journalistic standards that can affect their credibility and the accuracy of their reporting. The diversity of news outlets ensures that a wide range of perspectives are available to the public, which is essential for healthy democratic discourse. However, some outlets may be biased in their coverage or present the news selectively. This is known as media bias.