How did the invention of the Internet change mass media?

The invention of the Internet fundamentally transformed mass media by enabling instant access to information. This characteristic has revolutionized how news is disseminated and consumed. With the Internet, audiences have the ability to retrieve information almost instantaneously, breaking down geographical barriers and allowing anyone with access to stay informed about global events in real time.

This immediacy fosters a culture of continuous news consumption, where updates are available at all hours, and news can be shared and discussed across various platforms instantaneously. Additionally, it democratizes information by allowing diverse voices to contribute to discussions, which was less feasible in traditional media contexts.

Other options do not capture the breadth of the Internet's impact on mass media. While the Internet does allow for longer articles to be published, this isn't its defining change. The notion that it restricted user-generated content is inaccurate; instead, it has enabled such content to flourish. Similarly, communication platforms have diversified rather than limited, leading to a broader range of mediums for information sharing. Thus, the ability for instant access to information stands out as the most significant change brought about by the invention of the Internet.