4 verified, source-linked AI implementations documented between 2024–2026.
A columnist used generative AI to structure/organise column text without disclosing it to readers; flagged after a reader ran the column through an AI detector and escalated to Folha's ombudsman; Folha's AI conduct policy (editorial manual, March 2024) did not require disclosure of AI use in text, only for AI-generated images; sparked a transparency debate; subsequent ombudsman review found 8.9% of columns published Sept. 2025–Feb. 2026 contained AI-generated content (2.6% more than 80% machine-produced); set against Folha's dedicated AI editorial division launched June 2024
OpenAI's first Brazilian media content deal and first deal with a Latin American news publisher; Folha de S.Paulo and UOL journalism integrated into ChatGPT for 900 million+ weekly active users; Grupo Folha and Grupo UOL receive access to ChatGPT Enterprise, OpenAI API and Codex in return; deal resolved a 2025 lawsuit Folha had filed against OpenAI over unauthorised use of content; partnership structured to expand access to quality Brazilian Portuguese journalism through AI platforms
Brazil's most-read newspaper joins Google's AI article overviews pilot; builds on existing commercial relationships through the Google News Showcase scheme; deal delivers AI-powered article overviews on Google News pages, audio briefings, and real-time information in the Gemini app; articles carry clear attribution and links; Google compensates participating publishers; financial terms not disclosed; part of a wave of 13 global publishers joining simultaneously
Dedicated AI editor role created June 2024 to build and oversee internal AI tools for the newsroom — tools developed include automated transcription of audio and video, translation assistance, and headline suggestion generation for journalists; AI use governed by Editorial Manual policy published 2023 prohibiting AI-generated published content but permitting AI as research and production aid; policy requires transparency and human editorial accountability for all AI-assisted work
Folha de S.Paulo is one of 27 organizations in Brazil documented in the index, which holds 41 cases from the country. Its work spans 3 function types, including AI Ethics & Editorial Policy, documented across 75 organizations worldwide.