The animated series “A Fractured America,” produced by Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, leverages AI to critique issues like wealth inequality and drug addiction in the US, presenting a dystopian view under the shadow of the “American Dream.” Utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), including IBM’s watsonx for generating content, the series represents Beijing’s evolving strategy in its propaganda campaigns against the United States. The AI technology, capable of synthesizing high-quality multimedia quickly and cost-effectively, marks a significant shift in how content is created, making it easier to spread influential messages globally.

According to Henry Ajder, a UK-based AI expert, this approach showcases the efficiency and scalability of AI in propaganda, suggesting a move towards more autonomous content generation. The initiative reflects China’s broader efforts to sway international opinion through digital means, capitalizing on the reach of social media platforms. As AI continues to advance, the distinction between real and AI-generated content blurs, raising concerns about the impact on public discourse and the potential for misinformation.

Microsoft has noted the increasing use of AI by state-backed actors for viral content creation, emphasizing the technology’s role in enhancing Beijing’s capacity for influence operations. This trend, coupled with the potential for deepfakes and astroturfing, signals a new phase in digital propaganda, posing challenges for democracies worldwide.