Media News Daily: Top Stories for 09/28/2026

White House App Surges as Researchers Flag Tracking

The White House’s official app climbed to the top of Apple’s news category after the launch of its 24/7 Trump TV stream, but cybersecurity researchers raised concerns about extensive data collection and third-party tracking. The Washington Sun reported that the app can collect location and activity data and contains a dormant keylogger script that researchers said is unlikely to operate as conventional surveillance software on mobile devices. The app’s privacy policy allows information to be processed by third-party services and used for tailored content, statistical profiles, policy decisions, and lawful government requests. (Read More) (News Facts Network Rating)

RedBird Takes Majority Stake in Puck

RedBird Capital Partners has agreed to acquire a majority stake in digital media company Puck in a deal valuing the five-year-old outlet at approximately $250 million. RedBird already has significant media investments, including backing Paramount Skydance, creating potential scrutiny because Puck regularly reports on companies and executives connected to the investment firm. Puck CEO Sarah Personette and co-founder and editor-in-chief Jon Kelly told employees that the deal would not change the publication’s editorial independence or business model. The transaction is expected to close following regulatory approval. (Read More) (MediaPost Rating)

Meta Makes Massive AI Infrastructure Bet

Meta is making a roughly $200 billion annual capital-spending bet on artificial intelligence infrastructure and future AI-driven revenue. The analysis frames the strategy as a high-stakes wager that AI can significantly expand Meta’s advertising and technology businesses, while warning that long-term leases and infrastructure commitments could remain costly if returns fail to meet expectations. The report comes as Meta continues investing heavily in AI products and infrastructure while seeking new ways to monetize artificial intelligence across its platforms. (Read More) (MediaPost Rating)