How the New York Times is Harnessing Tech in the News Industry with Jason Sobel, CTO - Modern CTO Recap

Podcast: Modern CTO

Published: 2025-12-08

Duration: 52 min

Summary

Jason Sobel, CTO of The New York Times, discusses the evolving role of technology in news delivery, emphasizing the growth of digital platforms while valuing the traditional print experience. He elaborates on the integration of various media forms to enhance storytelling and accessibility.

What Happened

In this episode, Jason Sobel shares insights into his role as CTO at The New York Times and how technology is reshaping the news industry. He highlights the organization’s commitment to quality reporting while adapting to a growing digital landscape. Sobel notes that while the print business remains a significant part of their operations, the digital aspect is rapidly becoming the primary focus, reflecting a broader trend in media consumption. He emphasizes the importance of creating great digital experiences to engage customers effectively.

Sobel also discusses the blending of different media formats, particularly how audio content has become a significant focus for The New York Times. He mentions the advancements in automated voice technology, which allow them to offer more stories in audio format, making their journalism accessible to a wider audience. The conversation touches on the challenges of maintaining the allure of the physical newspaper while fully embracing digital innovations that enhance storytelling. Sobel reflects on the unique qualities of print that foster serendipity and a more immersive news experience, which he believes will always have a place in the media landscape.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What is the role of technology in modern journalism?

Jason Sobel emphasizes that technology is crucial for delivering news today. He explains that while reporting remains the core of The New York Times, technology is how they reach their audience effectively. The digital business is currently the largest segment for the organization, and Sobel's role involves ensuring that the technical foundations are strong enough to thrive in a competitive market.

How is The New York Times adapting to digital media consumption?

The New York Times is focusing on building great digital experiences for its users. Sobel explains that they are aware of the eventual decline of print media and are proactively enhancing their digital offerings. This includes creating interactive stories that leverage technology in ways that print cannot, while still hoping the print format lasts as long as possible.

What strategies is The New York Times employing to enhance audio content?

Sobel discusses the recent focus on making their content available in various mediums, particularly through automated voice technology. This development allows them to present more stories in an audio format, thereby increasing accessibility for audiences who prefer listening over reading. He notes that this strategy has been essential in reaching a broader audience and engaging with them through different channels.

What does Jason Sobel think about the future of print media?

Sobel expresses hope that the print business will endure for a long time, acknowledging its unique qualities that digital formats cannot replicate. He recalls a conversation with their publisher, A.G. Selzberger, who pointed out the value of the physical newspaper in providing a satisfying package of news and creating a serendipitous experience that digital cannot fully replace.

What are the biggest challenges facing The New York Times in the tech landscape?

One of the significant challenges for The New York Times is staying competitive in a rapidly evolving digital environment. Sobel mentions the need to continuously innovate and improve their digital experiences while ensuring that the technical underpinnings of the organization are robust. This necessity reflects the broader challenges faced by the news industry in adapting to changing consumer habits and preferences.