Microsoft will begin to employ AI technology to select the news stories that appear across its MSN website, news apps and Edge browser homepages.

Approximately 27 staffers employed by the U.K.’s PA Media are affected by the company’s decision to use the technology, The Guardianreports.

According to The Verge, many of the workers are contractors who work in Microsoft’s SANE (search, ads, News, Edge) division.

The team responsible for homepage news selected stories and edited content and headlines to fit the format for each. While the content was made up of stories produced by other news organizations, the editors held editorial control over their assigned spaces, ensuring a variety of political opinions and stories from outlets large and small, while making sure each piece came from a trustworthy site. 

A spokesperson for PA Media told The Guardian: “We are in the process of winding down the Microsoft team working at PA, and we are doing everything we can to support the individuals concerned. We are proud of the work we have done with Microsoft and know we delivered a high-quality service.”

A Microsoft spokesperson stated to the outlet that the changes were not implemented as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The decision affects journalists both new to the field and experienced, with more staffers holding similar positions around the world expected to be impacted by Microsoft’s new direction.