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OpenAI to Test Targeted Ads in ChatGPT, Stepping Up Revenue Push, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 16, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI will begin testing advertisements in ChatGPT for US users on free and lower-cost plans starting in the coming weeks. The ads will appear for users of the free version and the new $8-per-month "Go" plan, whilst premium tiers remain ad-free. This marks a significant shift from the company's subscription-focused model.

The move reflects OpenAI's push to diversify revenue ahead of a potential IPO and offset the $1.4 trillion commitment to AI infrastructure. CEO Sam Altman previously called advertising a "last resort," but the company now joins rivals like Google in introducing ads to AI products.

OpenAI states ads will appear at the bottom of relevant responses, clearly separated from chat content. The company promises ads won't influence ChatGPT's answers or be shown on sensitive topics to users under 18.

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EDO Found Liable for Contract Breach as Jury Awards iSpot $18.3M in Damages, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 16, 2026

A jury has found TV measurement firm EDO, co-founded by actor Ed Norton, liable for breaching its contract with competitor iSpot, awarding $18.3 million in damages. iSpot alleged EDO accessed its platform under the guise of film box office analysis but instead scraped proprietary data to build a rival TV advertising analytics platform launched in 2020.

The jury rejected iSpot's trade secret misappropriation claims, ruling the data did not qualify as trade secrets. EDO called the verdict mixed and plans to appeal, describing iSpot's lawsuit as an attempt to slow down a smaller competitor.

A separate EDO countersuit against iSpot for tortious interference remains on hold in Delaware court. EDO had alleged iSpot's timing disrupted an $80 million investment from Shamrock Capital.

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Maybe Europe Will Break Up Google; Best Practices For Disclosing AI Ads, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 16, 2026

The European Commission published a provisional decision this week reaffirming a 2.95 billion euro fine against Google for antitrust violations. The 363-page decision warns that merely discontinuing illegal practices won't prevent future monopolisation, stating Google's structural conflicts of interest must be removed to eliminate its ability to favour its own operations.

Google has submitted its own remedies proposal, which the EC will review over the next quarter. Whilst a US court-ordered breakup appears increasingly unlikely, the European Commission may set a precedent before Judge Leonie Brinkema publishes her remedy decision in the coming months.

The case centres on Google's publisher ad tech stack and potential forced divestiture to address monopolistic practices in the advertising technology market.

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Forrester’s principal media report: It’s here to stay, so wise up on how to use it, reports Digiday

General

Jan 16, 2026

Forrester's latest report confirms principal media is here to stay, urging marketers to embrace transparency in managing the practice. The report, released 15 January, addresses the controversial reselling of media inventory at undisclosed margins, with ANA research showing 23% of marketers estimate 10-25% of their spend goes through principal media.

The report recommends marketers demand contract clarity, operational transparency, spending caps, and performance metrics when agencies use principal media. Ebiquity's Ruben Schreurs notes brands accept the practice when benefits are mutually agreed and clearly understood.

Industry leaders like Horizon Media's Bob Lord emphasise disclosing deal structures upfront and sharing benefits with clients, whilst ANA advises appointing internal principal media czars to track usage across marketing plans.

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Australia social media ban hits 4.7 million teen accounts in first month, reports Reuters

General

Jan 15, 2026

Advertising To Children

Australia’s social media platforms have deactivated nearly 4.7 million accounts belonging to under-16s just one month after a world-first ban came into force, according to the eSafety Commissioner.

The figures suggest strong early compliance with the law, which carries fines of up to A$49.5 million for companies but does not penalise children or parents. Major platforms including Meta, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat and X are covered, while Reddit is complying but challenging the ban in court.

Regulators say some underage accounts remain and full compliance will take time. Early age-verification rollout has been smooth, though authorities are monitoring migration to smaller apps and studying the long-term mental health impact.

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India warns Apple it will proceed with antitrust case after company plays for time, reports Reuters

General

Jan 15, 2026

India’s competition regulator has issued Apple with a final warning, saying it will proceed with an antitrust case after the company delayed responses for more than a year.

The Competition Commission of India rejected Apple’s request to pause the case while a court considers a challenge to penalty rules. Apple fears potential fines of up to $38 billion based on global turnover calculations and denies wrongdoing.

Regulators said repeated extensions have undermined the investigation and set a final deadline for Apple to respond. If it fails to do so, the case will continue without its input, as legal proceedings remain ongoing.

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Spotify Raises Premium Subscription Prices in US to $13 a Month, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 15, 2026

Audio Advertising

Spotify is raising the price of its premium subscription by 8% to $13 a month in the US, as it seeks more sustainable profitability. Prices will also increase in Estonia and Latvia.

The move follows earlier rises in other markets and comes as Spotify faces higher costs and slower growth in mature regions. The company has more than 280 million paying subscribers and has not raised US prices since 2024.

Spotify said the increase would support product improvements and artists. Investors welcomed the news, with shares rising, and the company continues to explore higher-priced offerings for its most loyal users.

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Yahoo recasts its DSP as a data backbone for the agentic world, reports Digiday

General

Jan 15, 2026

Yahoo is deliberately making its demand-side platform easier to plug into and leave, betting that lower friction will attract buyers. Instead of locking marketers into its interface, Yahoo wants their own software agents to connect directly, turning the DSP into infrastructure rather than a destination.

The strategy centres on Yahoo’s authenticated identity graph, built from logged-in users across its properties. This provides more reliable targeting than IP-based methods, particularly in CTV and live sports, where household accuracy is critical.

Yahoo is extending this advantage into commerce media by adding retail and delivery partners. The aim is to compete on data and identity, not dashboards, in a market dominated by Google, Amazon and The Trade Desk.

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Musk’s xAI Faces California AG Probe Over Grok Sexual Images, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 14, 2026

Responsible Media

California’s attorney general has opened an investigation into Elon Musk’s AI company xAI after its Grok chatbot was allegedly used to generate thousands of non-consensual, sexualised images of women and children.

Attorney General Rob Bonta called the reports shocking and urged xAI to act immediately. Governor Gavin Newsom also criticised the company, calling for accountability over what he described as a breeding ground for abuse.

Musk has defended Grok, blaming user misuse rather than the technology. xAI is already facing similar investigations in Europe, including in the UK and France, and scrutiny under the EU’s Digital Services Act.

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Paramount Skydance Names Cinelli CFO Amidst Fight for Warner Bros., reports WSJ

General

Jan 14, 2026

Leadership Transitions

Paramount Skydance has appointed technology executive and board member Dennis Cinelli as its new chief financial officer, effective Thursday, amid its ongoing bid for Warner Bros Discovery.

Cinelli, formerly CFO at Scale AI and an ex-Uber executive, will oversee Paramount’s global finance operations. The company cited his experience in strategic transactions and the AI sector as key to supporting its growth plans. He will step down from Paramount’s board, with Andrew Campion joining as a director.

The appointment comes during a heated takeover battle with Netflix over Warner Bros. Paramount has launched a hostile bid, a proxy fight and legal action, while Warner has agreed to sell key assets to Netflix.

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X Restricts Grok’s Ability to Generate Explicit Images Following Deepfake Scandal, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 14, 2026

Responsible Media

xAI has tightened some restrictions on its Grok chatbot after it generated a flood of non-consensual, sexualised images on X, including depictions of women and some children.

Grok’s public X account will no longer allow users to edit images of real people to make them appear in revealing clothing, such as bikinis or lingerie, according to the company.

However, the changes are limited. Paying X subscribers will still be able to use Grok to edit or generate explicit images, raising continued concerns about safeguards and enforcement.

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90% of Brits say journalism is important to society, as editors express lack of confidence in ad-supported publishing, reports The Media Leader

General

Jan 14, 2026

News Publishing

Nine in ten British adults now say journalism is important to society, up sharply year on year, amid rising concern about AI-driven misinformation. Most believe news should be produced by trained journalists, though few feel confident distinguishing them from online commentators.

While public trust in journalism remains relatively strong, media leaders are far less optimistic about the industry’s future. Fewer than four in ten executives are confident about prospects by 2026, citing political pressure, funding cuts and declining referral traffic from AI-powered search.

Publishers expect significant falls in search traffic and are pivoting towards original reporting and video, particularly on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, despite risks to brand control and trust.

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Advertising group Dentsu’s push to sell global unit close to collapse, reports FT

M&A

Jan 14, 2026

Dentsu’s attempt to sell its international operations is close to collapse after potential buyers, including trade rivals and private equity firms, withdrew from talks. Only Bain Capital remained interested, but with major reservations.

The Japanese advertising group is now expected to abandon the sale and pursue a turnaround of the business, which generated more than $4.5bn in 2024 revenues. Dentsu has already announced restructuring plans, including cutting over 3,400 jobs.

The failed process has heightened investor pressure and raised concerns about leadership stability ahead of the annual meeting. Dentsu’s shares fell sharply, reflecting scepticism about its ability to revive the struggling international unit amid intense competition and industry disruption.

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Amazon to appeal against Italian antitrust fine, even after it was cut, reports Reuters

General

Jan 14, 2026

Amazon said it will appeal a ruling by an Italian court that reduced, but did not overturn, a major antitrust fine imposed on the company.

Italy’s competition authority cut the penalty to €752.4m from €1.13bn, following a court decision linked to Amazon’s alleged abuse of dominance in e-commerce logistics services.

Amazon said it should not be fined at all and will continue to contest the case. The Italian antitrust regulator is also expected to appeal the reduction, prolonging the legal dispute.

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UK PM Starmer says X moves to comply with UK law over AI deepfakes, reports Reuters

General

Jan 14, 2026

Responsible Media

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said X is taking steps to comply fully with British law after Ofcom opened an investigation into sexualised images generated by its Grok AI chatbot.

Starmer told parliament the government would act further if necessary. Elon Musk later said Grok would refuse to generate illegal images and would comply with the laws of each country.

X has already restricted some image generation features to paying users. The probe coincides with new UK legislation making the creation of sexual deepfakes a criminal offence, aimed at strengthening protections against online abuse.

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Amazon pushes suppliers for cuts ahead of Supreme Court tariff ruling, reports FT

General

Jan 13, 2026

Amazon is seeking to reduce the prices it pays suppliers, aiming to reverse concessions made to offset the impact of US tariffs introduced under President Donald Trump. It has reportedly asked for discounts ranging from low single digits to as much as 30 per cent.

The move follows reduced trade fears after some tariffs were eased, with Amazon pushing to shift future tariff risks onto suppliers. In return, it may accept smaller discounts if brands cover duties or increase marketing spend.

Negotiations are taking place amid uncertainty over an impending Supreme Court ruling on the legality of the tariffs. Suppliers warn Amazon’s approach risks squeezing margins as costs continue to rise.

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Netflix preparing all-cash offer for Warner Bros to fend off Paramount, reports FT

M&A

Jan 13, 2026

Netflix is considering revising its $83bn deal to buy Warner Bros Discovery into an all-cash offer, aiming to counter Paramount’s hostile bid and speed up completion.

The original agreement included a stock component and valued WBD’s studio and streaming assets at $27.75 a share. An all-cash structure could appeal more to shareholders and simplify the transaction, though talks are ongoing.

Paramount has offered $30 a share in cash for the entire company and is pushing for a board fight and greater disclosure. The bidding battle has lifted WBD shares, while Netflix seeks to reassure investors.

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A consumer watchdog issued a warning about Google’s AI agent shopping protocol, Google says she’s wrong, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 13, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Concerns have been raised about Google’s new Universal Commerce Protocol after a consumer watchdog warned it could enable personalised upselling and discriminatory pricing in AI-powered shopping.

Groundwork Collaborative’s Lindsay Owens argued the system might analyse chat data to push higher-priced products or adjust offers. Google strongly rejected this, saying upselling does not mean overcharging and that prices shown cannot exceed those on retailers’ sites.

Google said its tools cannot personalise prices and that discount features only lower costs. While the claims are disputed, the debate highlights wider fears about “surveillance pricing” as big tech expands into AI-driven commerce.

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Nearly all of X’s top 100 advertisers returned, ads boss claims, reports Digiday

General

Jan 13, 2026

Most of X’s top advertisers have returned more than three years after fleeing following Elon Musk’s takeover. X says 97 of its top 100 advertisers are buying ads again, with some spending at or above pre-acquisition levels, though overall recovery remains unclear.

Third-party data suggests many brands have returned cautiously, often spending less than before. Advertisers typically re-enter via sports, where X claims strong brand safety metrics.

However, renewed controversy over AI-generated sexual imagery may test advertiser confidence. X is betting on major sports moments, including the Super Bowl and new Grok-powered ad products, to sustain momentum.

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Google opens Olympic live sports inventory to biddable CTV buys, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jan 12, 2026

Sports Marketing

Google is expanding programmatic access to premium live sports advertising through Display & Video 360, ahead of a busy 2026 sports calendar. Advertisers will be able to buy NBCUniversal’s Olympic Winter Games inventory programmatically.

The update lets brands combine Google audience data with live sports CTV placements, improving reach, frequency control and cross-device measurement. New tools link TV exposure to downstream conversions using AI, at no extra cost.

Google has also simplified buying via a redesigned Marketplace offering curated sports packages. The move positions Display & Video 360 as a central hub for managing live sports campaigns across screens.

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Meta urges Australia to rethink under-16 social media ban after blocking over 500,000 accounts, reports CNBC

General

Jan 12, 2026

Advertising To Children

Meta has urged Australia to reconsider its under-16 social media ban after removing nearly 550,000 youth accounts to comply with the new law. The ban, in force since December, restricts access to major platforms including Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

While Meta says it is complying, it argues blanket bans are ineffective and calls for industry-wide, privacy-preserving age verification, including at app store level. It has launched age-checking tools but says responsibility should not rest solely with platforms.

Critics say teens are bypassing the ban via alternative apps, VPNs or shared accounts. The government defends the policy as protecting children’s mental health, despite mixed early results.

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Apple, Google Confirm Multiyear Deal for AI Technology, Siri, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 12, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Google has confirmed a multiyear agreement with Apple to power parts of the iPhone maker’s artificial intelligence, including the Siri voice assistant.

Apple said Google’s technology offers the strongest foundation for its AI models, though financial terms were not disclosed. Reports suggest Apple may pay around $1 billion a year. Shares in Alphabet rose following the announcement.

Apple said it will maintain its privacy standards by running AI on devices or through its Private Cloud Compute system. Google’s technology will support a new version of Siri due later this year, after earlier delays.

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Meta Plans to Cut Around 10% of Employees in Reality Labs Business, reports NYT

General

Jan 12, 2026

Meta plans to cut about 10% of staff in its Reality Labs division as it shifts focus from the metaverse towards next-generation artificial intelligence. The layoffs are expected to hit teams working on virtual reality headsets and VR social products.

The move reflects Mark Zuckerberg’s push to redirect spending into AI research, data centres and talent, amid intensifying competition from rivals such as OpenAI and Google. Some funding will also be reallocated to wearables.

While Meta says it is not abandoning the metaverse entirely, weaker consumer demand for VR has prompted a rethink. Augmented reality and smart glasses teams are expected to be largely spared.

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UK regulator launches investigation into X over Grok sexualised imagery, reports Reuters

General

Jan 12, 2026

Responsible Media

Britain’s media regulator Ofcom has opened an investigation into Elon Musk’s platform X over its Grok AI chatbot, focusing on whether it allowed the creation of illegal sexual deepfakes.

Ofcom said Grok may have been used to generate non-consensual intimate images and sexualised content involving children, raising concerns about potential breaches of UK law.

If X is found to have failed in its duty to protect users, Ofcom can require corrective action and impose fines of up to 10% of the company’s qualifying global revenue.

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WPP Media Lands $102M U.S. Media Account for Norwegian Cruise Line, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 12, 2026

WPP Media has won Norwegian Cruise Line’s $102 million US media account, taking the business from Publicis-owned Digitas, which did not defend the account.

Norwegian Cruise Line said it wants to redefine its brand to better match guests’ expectations for high-quality holiday experiences across its fleet and destinations.

The cruise operator said its partnership with WPP will strengthen its media presence and support delivery of its brand promise. WPP Media said it is excited to help promote the brand across its 20-plus ships.

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Meta taps Dina Powell McCormick as president and vice chairman, reports Axios

General

Jan 12, 2026

Leadership Transitions

Dina Powell McCormick is joining Meta full-time as president and vice chairman, reporting to CEO Mark Zuckerberg. She will help guide overall strategy, with a focus on AI, infrastructure and global partnerships.

Meta said her background in global finance and government positions her to support large-scale investments, build strategic capital partnerships and work closely with governments and sovereign investors. Powell McCormick previously served on Meta’s board.

Her appointment signals Meta’s shift towards AI and infrastructure-led growth. Coming from banking and public service rather than advertising, she reflects the company’s move beyond its traditional ad-focused identity.

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Paramount Sues Warner Bros., Aims to Nominate Directors to Board, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Jan 12, 2026

Paramount Skydance plans to nominate directors to Warner Bros Discovery’s board to oppose its proposed merger with Netflix and has filed a lawsuit seeking greater disclosure.

Paramount reaffirmed its $30-per-share offer and urged shareholders to tender their shares, saying the outcome may hinge on a shareholder vote if the board refuses to engage.

It accused Warner Bros of failing to fully explain the valuation of its cable assets and other deal details. Paramount argues its bid for the whole company is superior to Netflix’s lower offer for the studios and streaming business.

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Media buyers say Yahoo’s DSP is one to watch, reports Digiday

General

Jan 12, 2026

Yahoo has staged a modest comeback since its sale to Apollo, with its demand-side platform attracting renewed interest from media buyers. Product progress, a clearer AI roadmap and stronger commerce media capabilities have improved its reputation, highlighted at CES.

Yahoo DSP has undergone a technical reset, rebuilding itself as an AI-native, agentic buying platform. New tools support planning, optimisation and measurement, with a more open approach to integrating advertisers’ own AI models.

Despite gains, Yahoo remains a challenger. Layoffs and limited scale constrain growth as the DSP market consolidates around Amazon, Google and The Trade Desk.

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Walmart teams up with Google’s Gemini to make it easier for shoppers to find and buy products, reports CNBC

General

Jan 11, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Walmart and Google announced a partnership that will let shoppers use Google’s AI assistant Gemini to discover and buy products from Walmart and Sam’s Club, starting in the US.

The move builds on Walmart’s push into agent-led commerce, following its recent use of OpenAI’s ChatGPT for in-chat purchases and alongside its own AI assistant, Sparky. The companies did not disclose launch timing or financial terms.

Walmart says AI is reshaping how customers shop, as journeys increasingly start in chatbots rather than apps or websites. Both companies described the shift as transformative for retail and customer experience.

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Google bolsters bet on AI-powered commerce with new platform for shopping agents, reports CNBC

General

Jan 11, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Google has launched the Universal Commerce Protocol at the National Retail Federation show, aiming to set an open standard for AI-driven retail across discovery, purchasing and post-sale support.

The open-source system is designed to unify shopping functions so retailers can deploy AI agents without building bespoke infrastructure. It reflects intensifying competition with OpenAI, Amazon and Perplexity in AI-powered commerce.

Co-developed with partners including Shopify and Target, UCP will support checkout within Google’s AI products and enable brand chat via Business Agent. Google is also testing AI-triggered ads offering targeted discounts when shoppers show purchase intent.

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Elon Musk Says X to Make Algorithm Open Source in Seven Days, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 10, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk said X will make its recommendation algorithm public within seven days, including code that determines which posts and adverts users see. Updates will follow every four weeks with developer notes.

Musk gave no reason for the move, which follows complaints about feed quality and past bugs. X is increasingly using AI, including its chatbot Grok, to power recommendations.

The announcement comes amid growing regulatory pressure over transparency, misinformation and harmful content. Grok has faced criticism for generating sexualised images, prompting restrictions, while regulators in Europe and elsewhere continue to scrutinise X’s practices.

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Disney nearly sold out of ad inventory for college football championship, reports Marketing Brew

General

Jan 9, 2026

Sports Marketing

Disney Advertising is close to selling out inventory for the College Football Playoff National Championship, with demand and prices rising despite competition from other major sporting events.

The CFP attracted 40 new advertisers this season, including AI firms OpenAI and Anthropic, alongside increased spend from returning partners. CPMs, particularly for the final, have risen year on year.

Strong viewership growth has supported demand, with quarter-final audiences up 14%. Multiyear deals account for much of the inventory, and Disney is already renewing contracts for future seasons, reinforcing the CFP as a major advertising tentpole.

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XAI Limits Grok Images After Uproar Over Sexualized Content, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 9, 2026

Responsible Media

Elon Musk’s xAI has restricted Grok’s image generation on X to paying users after backlash over the creation of sexualised images of women and children. The standalone Grok app still allows free image generation.

The tool drew criticism for enabling non-consensual and potentially illegal content, prompting warnings from child safety experts and regulators. Musk said illegal use would be punished under existing rules.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the move did not go far enough, while Ofcom and the EU launched inquiries. In the US, senators urged Apple and Google to remove the apps.

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Grok and X should be suspended from Apple, Google app stores, Democratic senators say, reports CNBC

General

Jan 9, 2026

Responsible Media

Three Democratic senators have urged Apple and Google to remove X and its AI chatbot Grok from their app stores unless Elon Musk prevents the creation and sharing of non-consensual explicit images and child sexual abuse material.

They argue that inaction would undermine the companies’ safety claims, as Grok has been used to generate sexualised deepfakes and abusive content. Critics cite weak safeguards and recent resignations from xAI’s safety team.

X and xAI deny tolerating illegal content, while regulators abroad investigate. Apple and Google have not responded, despite strict app store rules on harmful material.

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Walmart Connect takes a play out of the Amazon playbook to make agentic AI the next battleground in retail media, reports Digiday

General

Jan 9, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Walmart is accelerating its use of AI and agentic tools across its ad platform, positioning itself against Amazon. It plans to place ads in its AI shopping agent Sparky and offer generative AI insights, creative and campaign support.

New agentic assistants include Marty, now in beta for Sponsored Search, mirroring Amazon Ads’ use of Rufus. Both retailers are targeting shoppers increasingly using AI chat for discovery and purchase decisions.

With strong growth at Walmart Connect and deep first-party data, experts say Walmart has reached parity with Amazon. Retail media is now seen as dominated by two leaders, with others trailing behind.

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Some of Warner Bros' biggest investors are split on Paramount offer, reports Reuters

M&A

Jan 8, 2026

Major Warner Bros Discovery investors are divided over Paramount Skydance’s increased $108.4 billion bid, which the board has rejected in favour of its agreed sale to Netflix.

While Paramount offers a higher headline price, Warner argues breakup fees, financing costs and heavy debt would erode value. Some shareholders agree the Netflix deal is safer, despite its lower price.

Others accuse the board of dismissing a superior offer too quickly and favour Paramount’s all-cash proposal, citing simpler structure and potentially easier regulatory approval. Large passive shareholders have so far stayed silent.

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Paramount Defends Its Hostile Bid for Warner, reports WSJ

M&A

Jan 8, 2026

Paramount is pressing ahead with its $77.9 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, arguing it is superior to Warner’s agreed deal with Netflix. Warner has rejected this, saying the Netflix transaction offers better value.

Netflix agreed to acquire Warner’s studios and HBO Max for $72 billion, alongside Warner’s planned cable network spin-off into Discovery Global. Paramount claims that unit has no value, citing weak market performance of similar spin-offs.

Paramount has secured $54 billion in debt financing and added a personal equity guarantee from Larry Ellison. Warner shareholders can accept Paramount’s tender offer until 21 January.

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EU Commission has ordered X to retain all Grok documents until end 2026, spokesperson says, reports Reuters

General

Jan 8, 2026

Responsible Media

The European Commission has ordered Elon Musk’s platform X to preserve all internal documents and data linked to its AI chatbot Grok until the end of 2026.

The move follows concerns over the spread of unlawful content on X, including non-consensual images of women and children, and extends an earlier data retention order covering algorithms and illegal content.

The Commission said the measure reflects doubts about X’s compliance and ensures access to information if needed. It stressed that this does not constitute a new formal investigation under the Digital Services Act.

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Microsoft launches Copilot Checkout and Brand Agents, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jan 8, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft is rolling out its first agentic shopping features in Copilot, unveiled at NRF 2026. Copilot Checkout lets users complete purchases directly within Copilot chat across Bing, MSN and Edge.

Copilot Checkout is launching in the US with partners including PayPal, Shopify, Stripe and Etsy. Shopify merchants are automatically enrolled, while others can apply to join.

Microsoft is also introducing Brand Agents for Shopify sites. These AI assistants use a brand’s voice, answer product questions, support purchasing and provide performance insights, reflecting a wider industry shift towards in-AI commerce.

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Musk lawsuit over OpenAI for-profit conversion can head to trial, US judge says, reports Reuters

General

Jan 8, 2026

A US judge has ruled that Elon Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI can proceed to a jury trial, allowing claims that the company abandoned its nonprofit mission to be tested in court.

The judge said there was sufficient evidence that OpenAI’s leaders had promised to maintain its original structure, warranting a trial scheduled for March rather than dismissal.

Musk, an OpenAI co-founder, is seeking damages over its shift to a for-profit model. OpenAI denies wrongdoing, calling the case baseless, while Microsoft disputes any involvement.

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Publicis partners with LiveRamp, reports AdAge

General

Jan 8, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Publicis Groupe has signed a strategic partnership with LiveRamp to strengthen its data and identity capabilities, reinforcing its shift towards building marketing infrastructure that can support AI-driven advertising.

The deal links LiveRamp’s data collaboration and identity tools with Publicis’ data and AI platforms, allowing advertisers to use first- and third-party data securely to target ads, measure performance and refine AI models without sharing raw data.

The move intensifies competition with rival holding companies making similar data plays, as agencies race to offer brands robust, privacy-safe data platforms that underpin planning, activation and measurement in an increasingly AI-led market.

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Omnicom Media wraps CES deals with a Pinterest collaboration that includes shoppable boards, reports Digiday

General

Jan 8, 2026

Omnicom Media is partnering with Pinterest to expand its Creo influencer agency’s access to creators and introduce more shoppable, intent-driven content.

The collaboration leverages Pinterest users’ high purchase intent, integrating creator discovery, AI-assisted content planning and shoppable boards, with early tests delivering strong engagement and return on ad spend.

Insights from Pinterest activity will feed into Omnicom’s Omni platform, alongside data from other partners, helping brands better link creator influence, commerce outcomes and consumer trust.

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Disney+ To Add Vertical Videos In Push To Boost Daily Engagement, reports Deadline

General

Jan 7, 2026

Disney+ plans to introduce vertical video later this year to boost daily engagement, as part of a series of advertising-focused announcements at its CES Tech + Data Showcase.

The new format will be explored across news, sport and entertainment, drawing on original shorts, repurposed clips and adapted scenes, with lessons taken from ESPN’s recent rollout. Disney says the aim is to create habitual, snackable viewing rather than promote long-form content.

Alongside this, Disney unveiled a new brand impact metric and AI-powered video creation tools. Executives stressed the importance of live sports and improved measurement linking brand building with performance outcomes.

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Disney Is Leaning Into Brand-Building Tools Using AI, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 7, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Disney unveiled new tools to help advertisers build brands at its Global Tech & Data Showcase at CES. An upgraded Disney Compass will add a Brand Portal offering a unified view of campaign performance across Disney platforms, including benchmarks and analytics.

It also launched the Disney Advertising Brand Impact Metric, combining measures such as attention, attribution and brand health, aiming to move beyond last-touch attribution and reflect broader halo effects.

Further updates include AI-powered summaries, chatbots, agentic planning tools and generative AI for creative, designed to speed up buying, attract smaller advertisers and improve efficiency.

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Roku’s $3 streaming service Howdy will be coming to other platforms, CEO says, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 7, 2026

Roku’s chief executive Anthony Wood said at CES 2026 that its low-cost streaming service Howdy could expand beyond Roku devices. Launched last year at $2.99 a month, Howdy offers ad-free library content as rivals raise prices and increase advertising.

Wood said the service targets a gap left by mainstream platforms, arguing that affordable, ad-free streaming has largely disappeared from the market.

He suggested Howdy will eventually be distributed off-platform, potentially via apps or the web, aiming to reach a much broader audience.

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China reviews Meta’s $2bn purchase of AI start-up Manus, reports FT

M&A

Jan 7, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Chinese authorities are reviewing Meta’s $2bn acquisition of AI start-up Manus for potential breaches of technology export controls, a move that could give Beijing leverage over the deal.

Officials are assessing whether Manus’s relocation to Singapore and sale to Meta required an export licence. While early-stage, the review could influence or even derail the transaction.

The case highlights US-China tech tensions and concerns about Chinese start-ups relocating abroad. Manus is not deemed core technology, but regulators may scrutinise whether restricted tools were developed in China.

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Spotify makes it easier for creators to earn, reveals $10 billion podcast spend, reports Reuters

General

Jan 7, 2026

Influencer Marketing

Spotify is expanding its creator monetisation programme and launching new tools for video podcasters as it steps up competition with YouTube and Netflix.

The company has lowered entry thresholds for monetisation, following strong growth in video podcast consumption, which has nearly doubled since the programme launched last year.

Creators will gain access to new sponsorship tools, easier video publishing from third-party hosts, and additional revenue from premium subscribers. Spotify also unveiled Sycamore Studios, offering production facilities to selected creators.

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Havas Will Use AI to Redefine What Agency Work is Worth, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 7, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Havas unveiled AVA, an AI-powered platform, at CES, positioning it as central to the company’s future and its use of artificial intelligence.

Chief executive Yannick Bolloré said AVA will act as a single hub, giving employees access to knowledge, data, workflows and campaign results, embedding AI across daily operations.

The no-code system is designed to help staff build AI-driven applications themselves and could ultimately change how employee contributions are valued and billed to clients.

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WPP Media Appoints Angela Steele as US Chief Client Officer, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 7, 2026

Leadership Transitions

WPP Media has appointed Angela Steele as its new US chief client officer, a newly created role, as the group seeks to strengthen client relationships and drive growth.

Steele joins from Publicis Groupe, where she led Publicis Collective US and the Verizon account, and previously held senior roles at Dentsu and IPG, working with major global brands.

Her appointment comes amid a challenging period for WPP Media, following significant client losses and leadership changes, as the company pursues a turnaround focused on pricing competitiveness and AI investment.

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Warner Bros. Board Rebuffs Paramount’s Latest Buyout Offer, reports NYT

M&A

Jan 7, 2026

Warner Bros. Discovery has urged shareholders to reject Paramount’s revised takeover bid, saying its complex, debt-heavy financing remains too risky despite a $40bn personal guarantee from Larry Ellison.

The board prefers its agreed $83bn deal to sell studios and HBO Max to Netflix, calling it more certain and financially secure. Paramount is pursuing a hostile bid directly with shareholders.

Warner cited concerns over high leverage, regulatory uncertainty and restrictions Paramount would impose if talks collapse, warning shareholders could be left with a constrained business and added costs.

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Uber will let advertisers tinker with the map, one of its most prized brand assets, reports Marketing Brew

General

Jan 7, 2026

Uber has launched Journey Takeovers, allowing advertisers to place immersive brand experiences across in-car tablets, the Uber app and, for the first time, its live ride map.

Brands can customise map icons and messaging to match destinations, locations and cultural moments, aiming to make ads contextually relevant rather than disruptive. A recent Coca-Cola campaign tailored icons by country and surfaced while riders travelled to likely purchase locations.

Uber says the format taps into where riders focus most during trips, shifting advertising from impressions to experiences, as its ad business continues to grow.

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Omnicom Media tackles frequency issues in TV via partnerships with Amazon and Roku, reports Digiday

General

Jan 7, 2026

Omnicom Media is expanding its partnership with Amazon Ads to tackle ad overexposure, combining Amazon’s authenticated graph with Roku’s linear and streaming TV data.

The integration, enhanced by Acxiom data after Omnicom’s IPG acquisition, allows advertisers to measure reach and frequency across TV and CTV and link exposure to conversions. This helps optimise campaigns, reduce waste and protect brand perception.

Faster Roku data cuts reporting delays to days, enabling near real-time optimisation within Amazon’s ecosystem and more precise frequency management for clients.

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Amazon AI Tool Blindsides Merchants by Offering Products Without Their Knowledge, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 6, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Small retailers discovered Amazon had automatically duplicated their product listings and processed orders through AI-driven programmes without consent. The listings, created under Amazon’s Buy For Me initiative, sometimes showed incorrect items or prices, leading to customer complaints and refund demands.

Shop owners said the practice undermined their control over customer relationships and risked copyright or supplier agreements. Some only noticed after spotting mysterious orders or social media warnings.

Amazon said sellers can opt out and described the tests as helping customers find new brands, but did not explain the lack of notification.

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Elon Musk’s xAI raises $20 billion from investors including Nvidia, Cisco, Fidelity, reports CNBC

General

Jan 6, 2026

Investment Rounds

Elon Musk’s xAI has raised $20bn, surpassing its $15bn target, with investors including Nvidia, Cisco and several long-time Musk backers. The funding reportedly values the company at about $230bn.

The deal highlights soaring valuations for leading AI firms, following major fundraisings by OpenAI and Anthropic. xAI now owns and operates X after merging with the social network earlier this year.

The company faces regulatory scrutiny over Grok generating illegal images and criticism over its Memphis data centres, but has still secured defence and betting platform partnerships.

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Comcast’s NBC Sells Out Ad Inventory for Winter Olympics, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 6, 2026

Sports Marketing

NBCUniversal has sold out all advertising slots for the Winter Olympics, highlighting strong demand ahead of a packed sports calendar including the Super Bowl and NBA All-Star Game.

The Milan-Cortina Games set a record for Olympic ad sales, attracting more than 100 new advertisers. NBC has not disclosed revenues but previously exceeded $1.25bn for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

The sell-outs underline expectations of high audiences across NBC and Peacock, and reflect broader growth in global advertising, with revenues forecast to keep rising in 2026.

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Walmart Opens Up Ads in Gen AI Shopping Agent Sparky, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 6, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Walmart is testing advertising within Sparky, its AI shopping assistant, allowing sponsored prompts to appear in product recommendation searches. Most Sparky users already rely on it for product details before buying.

The move puts Walmart in direct competition with Amazon’s AI agent Rufus and builds on its deal enabling shopping via ChatGPT. Walmart says its scale and automation appeal to advertisers exploring agent-driven commerce.

Walmart is also expanding AI tools for advertisers through Marty, which optimises sponsored search and creative, and plans broader AI-driven ad formats, including brand-focused campaigns.

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The Trade Desk Announces First Wave of OpenAds Publishing Partners

General

Jan 6, 2026

The Trade Desk has announced strong early publisher support for OpenAds, a new programmatic auction environment designed to improve transparency, integrity and signal quality.

Major publishers including the Guardian, BuzzFeed, Hearst, Newsweek and Ziff Davis say OpenAds helps clarify fees, reseller activity and where value is lost in the supply chain, benefiting both buyers and sellers.

OpenAds builds on The Trade Desk’s OpenPath initiative and will continue rolling out through 2026, aiming to create healthier, more auditable programmatic auctions.

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IAB Tech Lab Unveils Agentic Roadmap for Digital Advertising

General

Jan 6, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

IAB Tech Lab has released an Agentic Roadmap setting out how digital advertising can scale agentic buying and selling by extending existing standards, rather than creating new ones.

The roadmap builds on widely used frameworks such as OpenRTB, VAST and privacy standards, combining them with modern protocols to enable secure, interoperable, machine-speed execution across the ecosystem.

From 2026, Tech Lab plans open-source agent tools, reference implementations and stronger trust and measurement signals, supported by webinars and workshops to accelerate industry adoption.

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Meta hires Microsoft's C.J. Mahoney as chief legal officer, reports Axios

General

Jan 6, 2026

Leadership Transitions

Meta has appointed C.J. Mahoney as its new chief legal officer, replacing Jennifer Newstead, who is leaving to become Apple’s general counsel.

Mahoney previously held senior legal roles at Microsoft and served as a deputy US trade representative during Donald Trump’s first term. He will oversee Meta’s global legal strategy.

His remit will cover antitrust, data privacy, security and online safety, reporting directly to Mark Zuckerberg when he starts this week.

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DoubleVerify Partners with IMDb, Providing Advertisers with Media Quality Data, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 6, 2026

DoubleVerify has launched DV Authentic Streaming TV, a new product designed to improve how advertisers buy, measure and optimise ads across connected and streaming TV.

The tool combines content discovery, delivery reporting, suitability controls and AI-driven optimisation in a single workflow, aiming to give advertisers greater consistency and confidence in media quality.

As part of the launch, IMDb will integrate its programme-level insights, adding cultural, editorial and audience context to DoubleVerify’s verification signals during ad placement.

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AI Agents Are Taking Over NBCU’s Linear TV Buys, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 6, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

NBCUniversal is testing agentic AI systems to automate buying across linear TV and streaming, including live sports, using FreeWheel with agency RPA and Newton Research. The approach could reduce reliance on DSPs and SSPs by activating campaigns directly in the ad server.

Buy-side and sell-side agents exchange briefs, proposals and refinements automatically, with humans approving before execution. The first major campaign will run during NFL playoff coverage.

NBCU says automation can cut costs, speed approvals and simplify complex linear workflows, making premium TV inventory easier to buy while freeing teams to focus on strategy.

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Pinterest-Owned tvScientific Gets Closer To The Bidstream With OpenX’s New API Suite, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 6, 2026

Advertisers are becoming more sophisticated and want closer access to programmatic supply to improve data signals and buying decisions, according to OpenX. In response, the SSP has launched OpenXBuild, a new suite of APIs for advertisers.

The tools include Auction Insights, Identity Resolution and Real-Time Bidstream APIs, enabling buyers to analyse auctions, activate audience data and deploy custom models close to inventory. Early users say this proximity improves efficiency and bid accuracy.

OpenXBuild reflects the industry’s shift towards agentic systems, combining human oversight with deployable logic, rather than fully outsourcing decisions to AI.

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At CES, Omnicom Media ties a deal with Walmart purchase data into Meta’s influencer followers, reports Digiday

General

Jan 6, 2026

Influencer Marketing

Omnicom Media has partnered with Walmart and Meta to better quantify influencer impact by linking Walmart purchase data with Instagram creator insights. The move aims to help brands select creators based on what followers actually buy, not just reach.

Through Creo’s Influencer Discovery Agent, Omnicom can identify influencers whose audiences show stronger conversion potential across products, categories and consumer segments, especially for CPG brands.

The partnership builds on earlier Walmart integrations and feeds into Omnicom’s Omni platform, making influencer selection more data-driven and focused on measurable sales performance rather than popularity alone.

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Omnicom Folds Shopper Marketing Agency TPN Into Flywheel, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 5, 2026

Omnicom is streamlining its commerce media business after acquiring IPG, moving shopper marketing agency TPN under the Flywheel brand and retiring the TPN name.

The integration combines Flywheel’s retail media data with TPN’s shopper marketing expertise to build a connected commerce offering spanning brand, shopper and retail media. Senior TPN leaders have taken new roles within Flywheel, with no layoffs confirmed.

Flywheel is also shifting to client-focused teams and cross-training staff, as Omnicom prepares to compete more directly with Publicis in commerce media.

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WPP Open unveils AI Agent Hub to make agency expertise available to entire business, reports Campaign

General

Jan 5, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

WPP has launched Agent Hub within its WPP Open platform, an internal app store offering around 150 AI agents built from the group’s data, expertise and best practices.

The hub includes four advanced “Super Agents”, such as Brand Analytics, Behavioural Science and Creative Brain, designed to move beyond task automation into agentic products inspired by agency specialists.

The initiative aims to democratise expertise across WPP, breaking down agency silos while ensuring reliability through verified agents. WPP says the approach blends human judgement with AI to scale creativity and strategy for employees and clients.

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Google previews new Gemini features for TV at CES 2026, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 5, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Google is expanding Gemini AI on Google TV, unveiling new features at CES 2026 to enhance how people search, learn and control their televisions. The updates will first roll out on selected TCL TVs before wider release.

Gemini will let users talk naturally to their TV to find shows, get plot recaps, blend viewing preferences or explore topics in depth through interactive, narrated explainers.

The AI will also search and creatively rework personal photos and videos, and adjust TV settings by voice, such as brightness or audio levels, without interrupting playback.

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Amazon lets some users chat with Alexa+ on the web in bid to take on ChatGPT, reports CNBC

General

Jan 5, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon has launched a browser-based Alexa+ website, allowing some users to chat with its AI assistant online. The service is available only to early-access Alexa+ users via a waitlist or newer devices.

The site lets users ask questions, explore topics, create content, plan trips, get homework help and manage smart home devices within the chat interface.

The move puts Alexa+ in more direct competition with web-based AI chatbots such as ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini, as Amazon seeks broader access beyond apps and Echo devices.

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Comcast spinoff Versant starts trading on Nasdaq in rare media debut, reports CNBC

General

Jan 5, 2026

Versant Media Group, spun off from Comcast, began trading on Nasdaq under the ticker VSNT, joining a small group of public media companies amid industry disruption. Shares fell sharply on debut, valuing the company at about $6.5bn.

Versant houses NBCUniversal’s former cable networks and digital assets, including MSNBC, CNBC and Fandango. CEO Mark Lazarus said independence will allow greater investment and diversification away from pay TV.

The company faces declining revenues as cable viewing falls, but highlights strength in news and sport and relatively low debt as it seeks digital growth through acquisitions.

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EU Condemns Musk’s Grok for Illegal Sexualized Images of Kids, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 5, 2026

Responsible Media

The European Union is examining Elon Musk’s Grok after the chatbot generated sexualised images, including of minors, on social media platform X.

Regulators say Grok’s “Spicy Mode” enabled illegal content, such as digitally removing clothing from images. Authorities in the UK, France, India and Malaysia have raised serious concerns and contacted X and xAI for explanations.

While Musk says illegal material is removed, critics argue safeguards failed. The case adds to pressure on X, already under EU investigation and fined under the Digital Services Act.

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Reddit Takes on Google and Meta with New AI Media Buying Tool, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 5, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Reddit has launched Max Campaign, an AI-powered media-buying tool designed to attract performance advertisers and address transparency concerns seen with rival platforms.

Announced at CES, the tool automates targeting, bidding and creative optimisation within Reddit Ads Manager, aiming to simplify campaign setup.

Reddit says Max Campaign draws on its unique strength: large volumes of user-generated discussions, or “community intelligence”. The company believes this helps brands reach hard-to-find audiences and influence how products surface across AI-driven discovery tools.

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Omnicom Media kicks off CES with a Google search partner that drills deeper into intent, reports Digiday

General

Jan 5, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Omnicom is developing a new AI-driven search insights tool with Google to help brands better understand consumer intent in an evolving, AI-powered search landscape.

The “consumer prompt insights tool” analyses richer search signals beyond keywords, revealing higher-intent queries and enabling brands to tailor content, ads and strategy to how people now ask questions.

Clients say it speeds up competitive analysis and improves decision-making across search, content and partnerships. Omnicom believes the insights will influence wider media spend, including content designed to surface within large language models.

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EU readies tougher tech enforcement in 2026 as Trump warns of retaliation, reports FT

General

Jan 4, 2026

The EU plans to step up enforcement of its digital rules in 2026, intensifying scrutiny of Google, Meta, Apple and Elon Musk’s X.

Brussels will focus on applying existing laws such as the Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act, while probing areas including AI, cloud computing, WhatsApp access and online safety. Apple and Meta have already adjusted practices after earlier fines.

The tougher stance risks renewed clashes with the US, as President Trump’s administration criticises EU regulation and threatens retaliation. Officials insist enforcement will continue despite geopolitical pressure.

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America’s toughest privacy protections have finally kicked in, reports The Washington Post

General

Jan 2, 2026

California has launched a government website allowing residents to require hundreds of data brokers to delete their personal information and keep removing it over time, under the new Delete Act.

The law targets largely invisible companies that trade detailed personal data with little oversight. Brokers must comply by September or face fines, potentially reducing targeted ads and data on people-search sites.

While limited to California, the move sets a strong precedent. Elsewhere, people can still take steps such as using privacy-focused browsers, opt-out tools and supporting stronger data protection laws.

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Grok Posts Sexual Images of Minors After Lapses in Safeguards, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 2, 2026

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok admitted that failures in its safeguards led to the creation and posting of sexualised images of minors on X, breaching its own rules. The images were removed and fixes are under way.

The incident highlights growing concerns about AI image tools being manipulated to produce illegal content, despite stated guardrails. Watchdogs report a sharp rise in AI-generated child sexual abuse material.

While major AI firms ban sexualised depictions of minors, critics say enforcement remains weak. Grok’s more permissive design has renewed scrutiny of how effectively AI companies protect children.

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Meta created playbook to fend off pressure to crack down on scammers, documents show, reports Reuters

General

Dec 31, 2025

Internal documents show Meta responded to pressure from Japanese regulators over scam ads by launching enforcement efforts while also making fraudulent adverts harder for regulators to find.

The company cleaned up results in its Ad Library, a transparency tool used by officials, to reduce the apparent scale of scams without introducing universal advertiser verification.

Meta later used this approach globally to resist stricter regulation, prioritising ad revenue over tougher controls. Critics call the strategy misleading, while Meta says removing scam ads improves safety and that verification alone would not stop fraud.

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Macron wants to ban under-15s from social media from September 2026, Le Monde reports, reports Reuters

General

Dec 31, 2025

Advertising To Children

France plans to ban children under 15 from social media and prohibit mobile phones in high schools from September 2026, reflecting growing concern over online harms to minors.

President Emmanuel Macron supports tougher action, citing links between social media and youth violence, and aims to follow countries such as Australia. Draft legislation is expected in January, extending existing phone bans beyond primary and middle schools.

France already requires parental consent for under-15s’ accounts, though enforcement has lagged. Macron is also pushing for EU-wide rules, with public support for stricter limits remaining high.

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Warner Bros likely to reject Paramount's latest hostile bid, source says, reports Reuters

M&A

Dec 31, 2025

Warner Bros Discovery is likely to reject Paramount Skydance’s amended $108.4 billion hostile bid, despite a personal financing guarantee from Larry Ellison, according to people familiar with the matter.

The board is expected to stick with Netflix’s rival cash-and-stock deal, which analysts say offers clearer financing and lower execution risk, even though it carries a lower headline value.

Paramount has extended its offer and raised termination fees, arguing it faces fewer regulatory hurdles, but major shareholders and Warner’s board remain unconvinced.

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Poland urges Brussels to probe TikTok over AI-generated content, reports Reuters

General

Dec 30, 2025

Responsible Media

Poland has asked the European Commission to investigate TikTok after AI-generated videos urging Poland to leave the EU spread on the platform, which authorities say were likely Russian disinformation.

Polish officials warned the content threatened democratic processes and accused TikTok of failing to meet its obligations under the EU’s Digital Services Act for major platforms. The account has since been removed.

TikTok said it deleted content breaching its rules, while the Commission confirmed it is assessing AI-related risks. The case adds to wider EU scrutiny of TikTok over alleged failures to prevent foreign election interference.

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Disney Settles Children’s Privacy Case With $10 Million Payment, reports WSJ

General

Dec 30, 2025

Advertising To Children

Disney has agreed to pay $10 million to settle claims over unlawful data collection from children, following a Justice Department case resolved by a federal court.

Regulators said Disney failed to label certain YouTube content as directed at children, leading to the collection of data and targeted advertising without parental consent, in breach of COPPA.

The order also restricts Disney’s future YouTube activity. The case comes amid wider efforts to strengthen children’s online privacy rules, with tougher COPPA reforms under consideration.

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Meta Buys AI Startup Manus for More Than $2 Billion, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 30, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has agreed to buy Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup with Chinese founders, for more than $2 billion. The deal would be one of the most prominent acquisitions of an Asian-developed AI product by a US tech giant.

Manus is known for AI agents that produce detailed research and perform complex tasks, and has attracted millions of users and more than $100 million in annual recurring revenue. Its chief executive will report to Meta’s chief operating officer.

The acquisition strengthens Meta’s push into AI agents as it competes with Google, Microsoft and OpenAI, with plans to scale and integrate Manus across its social platforms.

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China says it hopes firms seek lawful, balanced solutions over TikTok deal, reports Reuters

M&A

Dec 25, 2025

China’s commerce ministry said it hopes companies can reach solutions that comply with Chinese law and balance all parties’ interests, when asked about TikTok’s US handover.

ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese owner, last week signed binding agreements to transfer control of its US operations to a group of investors including Oracle, aiming to avoid a US ban and end prolonged uncertainty.

Beijing urged the US to work constructively with China, honour its commitments, and provide a fair, open and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese companies operating in America.

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OpenAI discusses an ad-driven strategy centered on ChatGPT scale and media partnerships, reports Search Engine Land

General

Dec 24, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI is laying the foundations for an advertising business, exploring ads that could appear within or alongside AI-generated responses, according to early reports.

The idea could create a highly contextual new channel for advertisers, reaching users at the moment they seek information, while putting OpenAI closer to competition with Google and Meta.

The company appears cautious, aiming to protect trust and user experience. With rising infrastructure costs, ads could become a key revenue lever, potentially reshaping both AI products and digital advertising.

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Italy watchdog orders Meta to halt WhatsApp terms barring rival AI chatbots, reports Reuters

General

Dec 24, 2025

Italy’s antitrust authority has ordered Meta to suspend WhatsApp contract terms that could exclude rival AI chatbots, as it probes suspected abuse of market dominance.

The watchdog said Meta’s conduct may restrict competition, innovation and consumer choice in the AI chatbot market. The investigation began in July and was expanded in November to cover updated WhatsApp business terms.

Meta called the decision flawed, citing technical strain from AI chatbots, and said it will appeal. The case adds to wider EU scrutiny of Big Tech, with regulators coordinating action alongside a parallel EU probe.

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Layoffs Expected as Marketers Face Pressure Over AI Savings, Survey Finds, reports WSJ

General

Dec 23, 2025

Many marketing leaders expect AI-driven cost pressures to translate into job cuts. A Spencer Stuart survey found 36% of CMOs anticipate reducing headcount within two years, rising to 47% at companies with revenues above $20bn.

The push reflects pressure from CEOs and CFOs to prove returns on heavy AI investment, often through cost savings. Yet many firms are still experimenting, with limited evidence that AI delivers promised efficiencies at scale.

While some new specialist roles are emerging, hiring remains minimal. Most marketers say integrating AI across operations is still a work in progress.

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Trump’s First-Term Trust Buster Is Now Working to Get Paramount Its Deal, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 23, 2025

Former US antitrust chief Makan Delrahim is now helping Paramount challenge Netflix’s bid for Warner Bros Discovery, arguing regulators are unlikely to approve Netflix’s $72bn deal. He has told Warner investors that antitrust risks are higher for Netflix, especially in Europe.

Delrahim, now Paramount’s chief legal officer, says Paramount’s $77.9bn hostile bid would face fewer regulatory hurdles due to broader competition from tech and media rivals.

Warner disputes this view and still backs Netflix’s offer. Politics and President Trump’s views on CNN add further uncertainty to the takeover battle.

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Paramount's new offer for Warner Bros is not sufficient, major investor says, reports Reuters

M&A

Dec 23, 2025

Prominent shareholder Harris Oakmark says Paramount Skydance’s revised bid for Warner Bros Discovery remains insufficient, despite improved financing and a personal guarantee from Larry Ellison. The investor believes Paramount must offer more to outweigh the cost of changing course.

Paramount amended its $108.4bn hostile bid to address concerns, extending the tender deadline and matching Netflix’s regulatory break fee, but kept its $30-per-share price unchanged.

Warner Bros’ board continues to back Netflix’s lower but more secure offer. Investors are split, reflecting the rarity and value of Warner Bros’ media assets.

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IAS Appoints Melissa Furze As Head Of Data Science

General

Dec 22, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Integral Ad Science has appointed Melissa Furze as head of data science, reporting to the chief technology officer, to lead its global data, AI and analytics strategy.

Furze joins from LinkedIn, where she was global vice-president of customer science for LinkedIn Marketing Solutions, playing a key role in scaling the business and leading AI, measurement and data privacy initiatives.

With more than 20 years’ experience across data, analytics and AI, including senior roles at LinkedIn, Telefónica and Wunderman, she will support IAS’s AI-first strategy to deliver trusted, data-driven outcomes for advertisers and publishers.

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Meta’s Threads Makes a Play for Podcasters and Their Rabid Fans, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 22, 2025

Audio Advertising

Meta’s Threads will introduce podcast previews, allowing creators to upload short audio clips that play directly in users’ feeds, as it seeks to attract podcasters and their audiences.

The feature builds on existing tools, such as profile links to podcast platforms, and is designed to make Threads a central space for discussion and community around shows. Meta is also hosting live podcast events to spark conversation.

Threads, launched in 2023, has more than 150 million daily users but is still courting prominent creators, competing with platforms such as Reddit, Discord and Substack.

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Google Expands Ads In AI Overviews To More Countries But Not For Sensitive Verticals, reports Search Engine Roundtable

General

Dec 22, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has quietly expanded advertising in AI Overviews beyond the US, adding support across 11 more countries including Australia, Canada, India and Singapore.

The update replaces earlier language that suggested limited availability, signalling a broader international rollout of ads within AI-generated search summaries.

Google also clarified that ads will not appear in AI Overviews for sensitive verticals such as adult content, alcohol, gambling, finance, healthcare and politics, indicating tighter controls on monetisation in higher-risk categories.

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Omnicom Media execs begin their pitch outreach ahead of an expected new-business glut, reports Digiday

General

Dec 22, 2025

Omnicom is beginning to test its combined proposition after acquiring Interpublic, with senior leaders briefing pitch consultants ahead of a busy year of new business reviews.

The group’s pitch is expected to focus on data strength, pragmatic use of technology and AI, and the scale advantages of principal-based media buying, alongside a more consultative, outcomes-led approach.

Marketers, particularly mid-tier spenders, are expected to drive intense competition. However, clients remain cautious about integration disruption, potential talent losses and conflicts, with rivals watching closely for any instability as Omnicom reshapes its operations.

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Kenvue selects Publicis and WPP after global creative and media agency review, reports AdAge

General

Dec 22, 2025

Kenvue has appointed WPP and Publicis Groupe as the winners of its global creative and media agency review, which covered media, brand and production services.

Under the new split, WPP will handle creative and production for all brands except Neutrogena, while Publicis will manage media, influencer, commerce, healthcare professional communications, technology, and Neutrogena’s creative and production.

The review aimed to simplify operations and support global growth. Kenvue spent $1.6bn on advertising last year and owns brands including Tylenol, Listerine and Johnson’s Baby. The decision follows the recent appointment of a new chief marketing officer.

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Jaguar Land Rover picks winner in expanded global agency review, reports Campaign

General

Dec 22, 2025

WPP is set to win Jaguar Land Rover’s global agency review and has entered a period of exclusivity to finalise the deal, covering all four brands and markets worldwide.

The win is notable because it includes media planning and buying, which was added during the process and brings both creative and media under one partner.

Accenture Song and Omnicom, the incumbents on creative and media respectively, were beaten after a nine-month pitch. JLR said contract talks are ongoing, with a final decision expected early next year and completion targeted by the end of Q1.

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Larry Ellison Provides Personal Guarantee for Paramount’s Bid for Warner, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 22, 2025

Paramount has amended its hostile $77.9bn all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, with Larry Ellison personally guaranteeing $40.4bn of equity financing and agreeing to greater transparency around the backing trust.

The revised offer keeps the $30-per-share price and raises the regulatory break fee to match Netflix’s $5.8bn, addressing Warner’s concerns over funding credibility. Paramount also extended the tender deadline to 21 January.

Warner had favoured Netflix’s $72bn deal for its studios and HBO Max, but must now reassess. Markets reacted positively, while Netflix secured fresh bank financing to support its own bid.

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Netflix Prepares $25 Billion in Bank Financing for Warner Deal, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 22, 2025

Netflix has secured up to $25bn in bank financing to support its planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery’s studios and HBO Max.

The deal includes a $5bn revolving credit facility and $20bn in delayed-draw term loans, with banks including Wells Fargo, BNP Paribas and HSBC involved. The financing may later be refinanced through bond sales.

Netflix has agreed to pay $72bn for Warner’s studio and streaming assets, defeating a rival hostile bid from Paramount that Warner has already rejected.

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Italy regulator fines Apple $115 million for alleged App Store privacy violations, reports Reuters

General

Dec 22, 2025

Italy’s competition authority has fined Apple €98.6m for abusing its dominant position in the mobile app market through App Store practices.

The regulator said Apple imposed overly restrictive privacy rules on third-party developers via its App Tracking Transparency prompts, forcing additional consent screens for advertising data use.

Authorities argued the measures were unilateral, disproportionate and harmful to developers, while failing to meet privacy law standards. The probe, launched in 2023, was conducted with the European Commission and other regulators.

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Nielsen and Roku Renew Their Vows By Sharing Even More Data With Each Other, reports AdExchanger

General

Dec 22, 2025

Roku and Nielsen have signed a multi-year deal to integrate Roku’s streaming data into Nielsen’s campaign measurement tools, giving advertisers clearer insight into viewing across Roku devices and apps.

Nielsen will continue using Roku data in its Big Data + Panel ratings, while Roku gains access to Nielsen’s streaming ratings to benchmark its performance against competitors.

The update reflects more fragmented TV viewing and rising demand for outcome measurement. With Roku accounting for 21% of TV viewing time, the integration improves deduplicated reach, attribution and understanding of ad-supported viewing.

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TikTok Shop offers incentives to new sellers, as U.S. uncertainty is finally over, reports Digiday

General

Dec 22, 2025

TikTok is pushing to grow its US e-commerce business by offering new sellers incentives such as waived fees, sales-based rewards and up to $6,000 in coupons through gamified missions.

The move reflects efforts to revive TikTok Shop after uneven progress, with the platform subsidising early adoption to seed supply and train sellers ahead of Q4. Analysts warn sellers need clear strategies to benefit.

The push comes amid plans to shift TikTok’s US business into a new American-controlled joint venture, though regulatory and geopolitical risks could still affect the deal and the platform’s appeal.

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WPP’s Cindy Rose prepares radical reset in turnaround mission, reports FT

General

Dec 19, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

WPP’s new chief executive Cindy Rose is planning a major restructuring to simplify the group and secure its future, arguing the traditional agency network model is outdated in an AI-driven industry.

After years of profit warnings and client losses, WPP’s value has fallen sharply and it has dropped out of the FTSE 100. Rose says performance has been unacceptable but points to early client wins and renewed momentum.

She believes AI is an opportunity, not a threat, and wants WPP to shift towards integrated services, greater efficiency and outcome-based pricing.

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TikTok Owner ByteDance on Track for $50 Billion Profit in 2025, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 19, 2025

ByteDance is on track to generate about $50 billion in profits in 2025, marking a record year for the Chinese social media group.

The TikTok owner has already earned roughly $40 billion in net income over the first three quarters, surpassing its internal targets, according to people familiar with the figures.

Strong growth has been driven by expansion into e-commerce and new markets, putting ByteDance’s earnings close to those of rival Meta, forecast at around $60 billion.

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Meta Board Member Powell McCormick Resigns After Eight Months, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 19, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Dina Powell McCormick has stepped down from Meta’s board after just eight months, according to a regulatory filing.

The former Trump deputy national security adviser may retain a broad advisory role focused on strategy and investments, but Meta does not plan to replace her board seat.

Her departure comes amid wider board changes under Mark Zuckerberg, who has added several high-profile figures in the past year, including Patrick Collison and Dana White.

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