Media News Daily: Top Stories for 02/24/2026

Google’s AI-Generated Audio Signals New Frontier for Advertising

Google’s new AI music generator, Lyria 3, developed by Gemini and Google DeepMind, allows users to create 30-second, royalty-free soundtracks for YouTube Shorts using text or image prompts, fueling speculation about its potential use in dynamic, AI-powered advertising. While introduced as a creative tool, brands could eventually leverage the technology to generate adaptive audio ads tailored by mood and genre. The launch also comes amid ongoing legal debates over AI voice replication, including a lawsuit by NPR host David Greene alleging Google mimicked his voice, which the company denies. Read More (Mediapost Rating)

Musk’s xAI Reaches Pentagon Deal to Deploy Grok in Classified Systems

Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has signed an agreement enabling its Grok model to operate within U.S. military classified systems, potentially replacing Anthropic’s Claude, previously the only approved model for sensitive defense operations. The move follows a dispute after Anthropic declined to meet the Pentagon’s requirement that its AI be available for “all lawful purposes,” including surveillance and autonomous weapons applications. Google and OpenAI are also reportedly negotiating expanded access as the Defense Department accelerates efforts to secure alternative AI partners. Read More (Axios Rating)

Medical Influencer Peter Attia Resigns from CBS News After Epstein File Mentions

Dr. Peter Attia has resigned from his contributor role at CBS News after his name appeared in newly released Justice Department documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein. While Attia denied any wrongdoing and said he did not participate in Epstein’s criminal conduct, he acknowledged that some disclosed emails were “embarrassing” and “indefensible.” CBS News initially maintained its relationship with Attia, but he ultimately stepped down voluntarily amid heightened public scrutiny. Read More (AP News Rating)