Exploring AI media. Definitions, conceptual model, research agenda

Given the rising interest in AI-generated and synthetic media, the goal is to synthesise trending topics on how AI technology and media operation converge. A review of 2727 records from 13 international academic/non-academic databases is analysed through topic modelling and data scanning for exploratory analysis. The interpretation of the results allows a proposal of the "AI media" concept framing social-news-artificial-fake-service media phenomena leading to an extended or AI mediatisation. This study identifies fundamental challenges including trust and ethics, privacy safeguards, and the sustainability of AI ecosystems. The proposed conceptual model, definitions, and research agenda contribute to a comprehensive understanding of this emerging field. The study supports academic inquiry and policymaking with precise terminology and a forward-looking view that also considers the hype around generative AI.