German TV launched AI-generated news. It's hosted by a virtual clone of a real reporter

The German television channel WELT TV has just launched a truly groundbreaking project. At the end of July, it introduced the first nationwide program completely hosted and produced by artificial intelligence. The program, titled “KI-WELT” (AI-WORLD), focuses on current topics in the field of AI and robotics, presented by a digital avatar created in the likeness of a real reporter.

Avatar took over the hosting baton

The real-life model for the avatar was Welt channel reporter Paul Klinzing. At the beginning of each episode, he warns viewers: “I am not real, I am an avatar. But the news we show you is absolutely real.” The entire editorial process, from topic selection to research and the hosting itself, is managed by artificial intelligence, albeit under the supervision of human editors.

The premiere episode aired on July 31, 2025, at 2:45 PM, and the program will continue every Thursday at the same time. According to WELT-Gruppe editor-in-chief Jan Philipp Burgard, this is an experiment to demonstrate the current capabilities of AI technologies. He also emphasized that regular news broadcasts will continue to be hosted by real people.

What did the first episode offer?

The inaugural episode focused on the latest developments in artificial intelligence and robotics. Viewers learned about humanoid robots with advanced battery exchange technology in China and the tightened EU AI Act. The program also addressed societal impacts – while 81% of Germans already use AI at work, many are simultaneously concerned about their jobs.

News from overseas was also included, where Donald Trump announces an ambitious AI program for the United States. The format thus combines technological news with an analysis of its impact on daily life and society.

Unique concept with question marks

According to the station, “KI-WELT” is completely unique in Germany with its concept of complete AI production and hosting. In the discussion under the Welt newspaper article, the project evoked mixed reactions – while some appreciate the technological innovation, others express concerns about the trustworthiness of news presented by an avatar.

One commenter pointed out the risk in connection with issues surrounding fake news, where trust in news presentation plays a key role. Conversely, other viewers praise the visual quality and appreciate the experiment with new technologies, to which I personally must agree.

How do you think the role of artificial intelligence in television news will evolve?

Sources: Welt (1, 2), Welt/YouTube, Notebookcheck