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EU Delayed Punishing Apple, Meta Just Before Trade Talks Started, reports WSJ

General

Apr 18, 2025

The EU has delayed issuing penalties against Apple and Meta for alleged breaches of the Digital Markets Act, likely to avoid clashing with the Trump administration during trade talks. Cease-and-desist orders and possible fines were expected this week, but the announcement was postponed just before EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič met U.S. officials.

The cases focus on Meta’s ad targeting policies and Apple’s App Store rules. While penalties could reach 10% of global revenue, the expected impact lies more in enforced business changes.

EU officials deny political influence, though some lawmakers question the timing amid ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S.

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Media budgets on a decline amid tariff uncertainty, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 17, 2025

UK businesses reduced main media marketing spend for a second consecutive quarter, with a net -6.7% cut in Q1 2025, according to the IPA’s Bellwether Report. Overall marketing budgets were also down for the first time in four years, driven by uncertainty around US tariffs and domestic fiscal pressures.

While digital and sales promotions saw modest increases, traditional media channels such as OOH, audio and print declined. Despite current caution, long-term sentiment remains positive, with many firms planning budget increases for 2025/26.

Analysts warn that Trump’s tariff policy may deepen cuts, posing further risk to brand investment and media agency growth.

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Google’s AI Overviews Echo Anti-Abortion Messaging, Report Finds, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 17, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

A report by Campaign for Accountability found that Google’s AI Overviews often echoed anti-abortion talking points from crisis pregnancy centres in states requiring pre-abortion ultrasounds. These summaries framed ultrasounds as tools for informed decision-making, citing nonmedical sources. Critics argue such scans are unnecessary and used to dissuade women from terminating pregnancies.

The report claims many AI Overviews and Google ads promoted services that don’t meet legal requirements, potentially misleading users.

Google defended its approach, stating its AI highlights diverse perspectives and complies with advertising policies, though campaigners argue these practices may violate Google’s rules and risk delaying access to abortion care.

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Roblox and Discord Scrutinized by States Over Child Safety Issues, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 17, 2025

Advertising To Children

Officials in Florida and New Jersey are investigating Roblox and Discord over concerns about child safety. Florida’s attorney general has subpoenaed Roblox, seeking details on its moderation practices and protections against predators. Roblox, which has 85 million daily users, says it will cooperate.

New Jersey’s attorney general has sued Discord for allegedly misleading users about its child safety features, claiming the platform failed to filter harmful content and enforce age restrictions. Discord disputes the claims and plans to defend itself.

Both companies are under increasing scrutiny as concerns grow about their ability to protect young users from harmful online interactions.

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TikTok's US public policy chief to step down, reports Reuters

General

Apr 17, 2025

Leadership Transitions

TikTok’s U.S. public policy chief, Michael Beckerman, is stepping down from his Washington-based role to take on a global advisory position, according to a staff memo reported by The Information.

Beckerman has been a central figure in TikTok’s efforts to resist a potential U.S. government ban.

His departure comes shortly after President Donald Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. assets by 75 days, amid ongoing scrutiny and geopolitical tensions surrounding the app’s Chinese ownership.

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China video app Douyin launches program to help foreign trade firms pivot to domestic market, reports Reuters

General

Apr 17, 2025

Douyin, China’s version of TikTok, has launched a new programme to support Chinese exporters by helping them sell goods domestically.

The move comes in response to escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China, with Chinese exporters facing growing difficulties accessing the U.S. market due to high tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on all Chinese imports.

Douyin joins other Chinese firms in taking steps to mitigate the impact of the trade war by redirecting export efforts towards the domestic market.

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AMS and VideoAmp Enter Strategic Adtech Collaboration, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 17, 2025

VideoAmp has entered a strategic collaboration with AMS (formerly Active Media Services), granting AMS clients access to its Valid engine for enhanced media measurement. Valid combines TV viewership data with VideoAmp’s identity graph and clean room technology to accurately reach and measure custom audiences across linear and digital video.

The partnership enables AMS to compare custom audience CPMs with traditional demographics, creating a unified currency across video platforms.

AMS brands including Active International, Involved Media, and XACTV Network will benefit, with clients such as Omaha Steaks and Quicken set to leverage the advanced targeting and measurement capabilities.

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Samsung Ads’ Optimal Reach Portfolio Now Available for Advertisers, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 17, 2025

Samsung Ads has launched its Optimal Reach portfolio, offering advertisers advanced tools to analyse viewer behaviour across linear TV and ad-supported streaming (AVOD). The suite helps reduce ad duplication, improve reach and optimise campaigns using Samsung’s proprietary first-party data, ACR technology, and machine learning.

Features include incrementality measurement, cross-platform ad frequency management and real-time predictive modelling. The platform aims to unify linear and streaming campaigns, delivering unduplicated connected TV reach.

A luxury automaker using Optimal Reach reportedly connected with over 3 million hard-to-reach consumers and achieved a 47% incremental reach beyond traditional campaigns.

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Netflix Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +12.5% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +23.9% YoY

+ 13% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Apr 17, 2025

CNBC Reports:

Netflix reported a strong Q1 2025 with a 13% year-on-year revenue increase to $10.54 billion, surpassing expectations. The growth was driven by subscription and advertising revenue, boosted by recent price hikes. Net income rose to $2.89 billion, or $6.61 per share.

For the first time, Netflix did not disclose subscriber numbers, shifting focus to financial metrics. Despite market concerns over tariffs, Netflix stated there’s been no significant impact on its outlook.

The company also launched its own ad tech platform in the U.S. to improve targeting and measurement, signalling a long-term strategy centred around advertising growth.

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Google Illegally Monopolized Ad Tech Markets, Judge Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 17, 2025

A US federal judge has ruled that Google illegally monopolised online advertising markets for ad exchanges and publisher ad servers, marking a major setback for the tech giant. While the judge rejected claims of monopoly in advertiser tools, she found Google’s conduct harmed competitors, publishers and consumers.

The decision follows a 2023 lawsuit by the Justice Department and states seeking to break up Google’s ad tech business. Although the ruling didn’t deem key acquisitions anticompetitive, it may lead to remedies in future proceedings.

Google plans to appeal, arguing that publishers have choice and use its tools for their effectiveness and affordability.

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TikTok Ads introduces new exclusion lists, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 16, 2025

TikTok has introduced two new global ad placement controls — the Video Exclusion List and Profile Feed Exclusion List — giving advertisers greater control over where their ads appear. These tools allow brands to block specific videos or user profiles to avoid unwanted adjacency, supporting more customised and sensitive placements.

Part of TikTok’s broader Safety Suite, the update is accompanied by a new Brand Safety & Suitability Playbook, offering guidance, case studies, and activation tips.

The move reflects TikTok’s shift from brand safety to brand alignment, helping advertisers maintain control in user-generated content environments.

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Google used AI to suspend over 39M ad accounts suspected of fraud, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 16, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google suspended 39.2 million advertiser accounts in 2024, over triple the previous year, as part of its crackdown on ad fraud. Using large language models and human oversight, it blocked scam-related accounts and introduced over 30 policy updates.

The company took down 1.8 billion ads in the U.S. and 247.4 million in India, with major violations including misrepresentation, trademark misuse, and ad network abuse. Google also removed 10.7 million election ads and restricted 9.1 billion ads overall.

While suspensions raised fairness concerns, Google said it has improved transparency and appeal processes to clarify enforcement decisions for advertisers.

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Meta Saw TikTok as Highly Urgent Threat, Zuckerberg Says at Antitrust Trial, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Apr 16, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg testified in the FTC’s antitrust trial that TikTok posed a “highly urgent” threat to Meta from 2018, prompting the company to prioritise video content like Instagram Reels.

He defended Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, saying they were strategic responses to mobile trends, not monopolistic moves. The FTC argues Meta stifled competition by buying rivals rather than competing. Zuckerberg challenged claims that “network effects” still matter in today’s social media landscape.

If the FTC wins, Meta may be forced to divest Instagram and WhatsApp, undoing years of integration and sparking broader debate over Big Tech’s power and regulation.

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Google Faces Potential $6.6 Billion U.K. Antitrust Lawsuit Over Search Advertising, reports WSJ

General

Apr 16, 2025

Google is facing a £5 billion collective action lawsuit in the UK, accused of abusing its market dominance to overcharge advertisers for search advertising services. Filed by competition law academic Or Brook and law firm Geradin Partners, the claim alleges Google excluded rivals and imposed restrictive practices, such as default app requirements and preferential treatment for its own ad tech tools. The action covers UK businesses that used Google ads from 2011 onwards.

Google called the case speculative and said it would contest it strongly.

The UK’s CMA and the European Commission are also investigating Google’s ad tech practices.

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TikTok begins US testing of Footnotes similar to Community Notes by X, reports Reuters

General

Apr 16, 2025

TikTok has begun testing a new feature called "Footnotes" in the U.S., allowing users to add contextual information to videos, similar to Community Notes on X and Meta.

The feature is part of TikTok’s efforts to improve content reliability, alongside fact-checking and content labels. Users over 18 with an account older than six months and no recent guideline violations can apply to contribute.

The move comes as TikTok awaits a deal to remain in the U.S., following a 2024 law requiring parent company ByteDance to divest the app. President Trump recently extended the divestment deadline and confirmed talks are ongoing.

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DoubleVerify Threatens to Sue Adtech Watchdog Check My Ads For Alleged Defamation, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 16, 2025

Ad verification firm DoubleVerify has warned adtech watchdog Check My Ads of potential legal action over alleged defamatory statements related to a March report by Adalytics. The report suggested that vendors including DoubleVerify failed to detect bot traffic in digital advertising.

Check My Ads, which has promoted Adalytics’ findings and collaborated with the group, received a letter from DoubleVerify’s lawyer demanding preservation of communications. In response, Check My Ads called the claims vague and the demands overbroad, asserting they could undermine protected communications with lawmakers and efforts to increase transparency in the advertising industry.

DoubleVerify declined to comment on the matter.

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Omnicom Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +1.6% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Down By -10.0% YoY

+ 2% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Apr 16, 2025

AdExchanger reports:

Omnicom reported a strong Q1 2025, with 3.4% organic revenue growth to $3.69 billion, driven by solid media and precision marketing performance. Net income dipped slightly to $287.7 million due to costs linked to its ongoing acquisition of Interpublic Group, which remains on track to close in H2 2025. CEO John Wren dismissed competitor concerns about post-merger competitiveness.

Public relations and branding saw declines, partly due to market uncertainty and fewer rebranding projects. Wren noted potential tariff impacts remain unclear, with effects likely to emerge later in Q2.

Overall, Omnicom remains confident despite broader market volatility.

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Tariff Confusion Leaves Advertisers Paralyzed and Somber, reports NYT

General

Apr 16, 2025

The US advertising industry faces uncertainty amid fluctuating tariffs, leaving many companies hesitant to commit to marketing spend. Retailers, automakers, and media firms are particularly affected, with 60% of ad executives expecting budget cuts of 6–10%. The unpredictability of President Trump’s trade policy has caused paralysis among advertisers, with many in “wait and see” mode. Some brands are urging consumers to buy before tariffs raise prices, while others highlight their US manufacturing.

Analysts predict more flexible ad strategies and a shift towards digital formats.

Despite the turmoil, agency leaders note clients remain cautiously competitive, seeking growth opportunities where possible.

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YouTube Was Guaranteed Exemption From Australia Social Media Ban, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 16, 2025

Advertising To Children

Australian Communications Minister Michelle Rowland assured YouTube CEO Neal Mohan that YouTube would be exempt from a new under-16 social media ban before public consultation began, documents reveal. This early promise has sparked backlash from rivals including TikTok and Meta, who called the move anti-competitive.

Despite YouTube’s popularity among Australian children, the platform was excluded from the age restriction law passed in November 2024. Critics argue the exemption is unfair, as YouTube Shorts closely resembles TikTok content.

Platforms must enforce the ban or face fines up to A$50 million, though age verification methods remain unclear.

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Grace Kao Promoted to CMO of Snap, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 16, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Snap has promoted Grace Kao to chief marketing officer after less than six months as VP of consumer and business marketing. She replaces Colleen DeCourcy, who will remain as an advisor before leaving later this year.

Kao brings experience from Spotify, Instagram, Yahoo, and top ad agencies, and led Spotify’s Cannes-winning Spreadbeats campaign. CEO Evan Spiegel praised her early impact at Snap.

The CMO role has been vacant since April 2023. DeCourcy, who joined from Wieden+Kennedy, led brand campaigns repositioning Snap as a healthier social alternative. Snap saw 16% revenue growth in 2024 and now has over 850 million monthly users.

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Havas Media Network Elevates Jon Waite to Global Head of Planning

General

Apr 16, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Havas Media Network has promoted Jon Waite to Global EVP, Planning. In this newly created role, Waite will lead the network’s planning discipline, uniting strategic intelligence with activation to create media experiences across the full customer journey. He will collaborate across Havas’ commerce, activation and data units, and continue to develop attention-based planning tools and research.

Waite previously spearheaded a global partnership with Lumen Research and led the integration of attention data into Havas’ planning platform.

He will now focus on enhancing media effectiveness and client growth through evidence-based research and cross-functional collaboration across the Havas ecosystem.

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Publicis Group CEO says advertisers are pacing, not panicking, reports Digiday

General

Apr 16, 2025

Publicis Groupe CEO Arthur Sadoun described advertiser sentiment as “cautious but competitive” amid global uncertainty fuelled by tariffs and economic volatility. Marketers are holding back larger investments but continue spending to defend market share, driving tighter timelines and performance focus.

Publicis reported 4.9% revenue growth last quarter, buoyed by strong new business wins like Coca-Cola. Digital transformation spending has slowed, but Sadoun expects recovery as AI reshapes business models. M&A remains selective, with recent investment in Lotame.

Despite macro pressures, marketers are still exploring agency partnerships, often via smaller trial engagements rather than full reviews, reflecting a shift in procurement strategy.

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Grok gains a canvas-like tool for creating docs and apps, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has launched Grok Studio, a new feature for its Grok chatbot that enables users to create and edit documents, code, reports and simple apps in a dedicated workspace.

Available to all users on Grok.com, the tool allows real-time collaboration in a side window. Grok Studio supports languages such as Python, C++ and JavaScript and includes HTML preview functionality.

The update also adds integration with Google Drive, allowing users to attach and work with files like documents, spreadsheets and slides, enhancing Grok’s usefulness for writing and coding tasks.

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Mark Zuckerberg admits he considered spinning off Instagram in 2018, reports FT

General

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg acknowledged in a 2018 email that Meta might one day be forced to spin off Instagram and WhatsApp due to growing calls to break up Big Tech. The email, presented in a US antitrust trial, revealed internal discussions about whether separating Instagram could address operational challenges and reduce competition concerns.

The Federal Trade Commission argues Meta's acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp were anti-competitive and is seeking to unwind the deals.

Zuckerberg told the court the company had been struggling to balance priorities across platforms. He noted that, historically, companies often perform better after break-ups, though he wasn’t proposing action at the time.

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OpenAI names members to its nonprofit commission, reports Reuters

General

Apr 15, 2025

Leadership Transitions

OpenAI has formed a nonprofit commission to guide its philanthropic initiatives, following a corporate restructure aimed at balancing business growth with its founding mission. The Microsoft-backed company appointed Daniel Zingale as convener, with advisors including Dolores Huerta and Monica Lozano. The commission will engage with communities to inform OpenAI’s giving strategy and report to the board within 90 days.

This move comes amid legal tensions with Elon Musk, who accuses OpenAI of prioritising profit over public benefit. OpenAI has countersued, alleging harassment.

The company is also seeking up to $40 billion in new funding, potentially valuing it at $300 billion.

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The FTC wanted $30 billion to drop its case. Zuckerberg offered much less and hoped Trump would back him up, reports WSJ

M&A

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg offered $450 million to settle Meta’s antitrust case with the FTC, far below the agency’s $30 billion demand. The case centres on Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp, which the FTC argues were aimed at neutralising competition.

As the trial began, Zuckerberg testified over two days, defending the purchases. Despite lobbying efforts and growing ties with President Trump, the FTC rejected settlement offers, with Chair Andrew Ferguson backing the trial.

The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of Meta’s market power and political influence, especially concerning the 2020 election and the company’s broader role in digital competition and content moderation.

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OpenAP Unveils New Technology to Help Determine Streaming Video Identity Data, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 15, 2025

OpenAP, co-owned by Fox, NBCUniversal, Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, has launched Open Identity, a cross-publisher tool designed to streamline identity data for streaming video.

The solution allows advertisers, publishers and data providers to match audience usage data without a central identity spine, enabling consistent targeting and measurement across campaigns. Built on OpenAP’s platform, Open Identity supports multiple ID providers, improves match rates via real-time clean room ID translation, and ensures privacy compliance.

It aims to enhance transparency, interoperability and performance measurement across the premium video ecosystem, responding to advertisers’ demand for better cross-platform insights.

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Temu’s US Ad Spend Craters Amid Escalating Trade War With China, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 15, 2025

Temu, the Chinese-owned ecommerce platform, has abruptly halted its U.S. digital ad campaigns, withdrawing from Google Shopping and social platforms amid rising U.S.–China trade tensions.

Its share of Google Shopping ad impressions fell from nearly 50% to 0% in early April, coinciding with President Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese goods. Temu’s sponsored TikTok content and app ranking also dropped sharply. The retreat reflects strategic adjustments to avoid rising costs and supply chain disruption.

While the exit frees up ad space, market uncertainty means few brands are rushing to fill the gap, with many reassessing budgets due to economic volatility.

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White House bars AP reporter, defying court order, reports Axios

General

Apr 15, 2025

News Publishing

The White House blocked Associated Press staff from an Oval Office press conference on Monday, defying a court order that took effect the same day.

The Trump administration, planning to appeal the ruling, requested a stay until Thursday’s appeals hearing, or a further week to allow the Solicitor General to seek relief. The court had ruled that barring journalists based on viewpoint violates the First Amendment. The AP opposes the stay, and legal experts say the government faces a high bar to overturn the decision.

The White House also plans new press room seating and to ignore emails with gender pronouns.

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Google's spam policy hit by EU antitrust complaint from German media company, reports Reuters

General

Apr 15, 2025

German media firm Meraki Group has filed a complaint with EU antitrust regulators over Google’s crackdown on “parasite SEO” practices. The complaint claims Google’s site reputation abuse policy, introduced in 2023, unfairly penalises websites and harms media traffic and revenues.

Meraki joins other European publisher associations calling for regulatory action, alleging Google favours its own services and lacks transparency in policy enforcement. Publishers across several EU countries report major drops in search rankings since January.

Google defends the policy, stating it improves user experience and includes a reconsideration process for affected sites. The European Commission has yet to comment.

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Zuckerberg Testifies on Emails About Instagram and WhatsApp Deals, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 15, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg testified for a second day in a US antitrust trial, defending Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. FTC lawyers presented internal emails from 2012 showing Zuckerberg considered the deals a way to neutralise competitors and buy time to maintain Facebook’s dominance. Zuckerberg acknowledged scale was a factor but insisted the deals also aimed to improve quality and functionality

The FTC argues Meta illegally monopolised social networking focused on friends and family, while Meta claims it faces broad competition from platforms like TikTok and YouTube.

The trial could result in Meta being forced to divest Instagram and WhatsApp.

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OpenAI is building a social network, reports The Verge

General

Apr 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI is developing a prototype social network with a feed focused on ChatGPT’s image generation, according to sources. CEO Sam Altman is said to be seeking external feedback, though it’s unclear if the project will be a standalone app or part of ChatGPT.

A social platform could provide OpenAI with real-time user data to improve its AI models, rivalling Elon Musk’s Grok and Meta’s upcoming AI assistant.

The move reflects OpenAI’s broader ambitions and could intensify competition with Musk and Meta. However, it remains uncertain whether the project will be publicly launched, as it is still in early development.

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Japan Orders Google to Stop Forcing Phone Makers to Use its Apps, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 15, 2025

Japan’s Fair Trade Commission has ordered Google to stop abusing its market dominance by forcing local smartphone makers to prioritise its apps and services, particularly through the Google Play ecosystem. The regulator said Google required manufacturers like Sony and Sharp to promote Chrome and avoid preloading rival search engines, sometimes offering ad revenue in return. The move, Japan’s first such order against a major US tech firm, comes ahead of trade talks with the US.

It follows global regulatory scrutiny of Google’s practices, with the EU and US also pursuing cases against the company.

Google has expressed disappointment with the decision.

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Barb launches overnight commercial reporting in beta, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 14, 2025

Barb has launched a beta version of overnight commercial spot ratings, providing earlier insight into individual ad performance rather than waiting eight days for full data. This responds to long-standing industry demand for more timely and accountable TV ad reporting.

Developed with Clearcast and Ad Signal, the system matches aired commercials with Clearcast’s ad library to deliver interim overnight reports via Barb’s API.

While still in beta, the move is seen as a significant step towards modernising TV trading systems, enabling agencies and advertisers to assess campaign impact more quickly and accurately. Further refinements are expected based on user feedback.

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Expanded programmatic capabilities at Sky Media will democratise live sport, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 14, 2025

Sky Media has launched a private marketplace (PMP) with The Trade Desk, offering programmatic access to streamed linear and on-demand TV, including live sports like football. This allows advertisers to bid in real time for premium slots across platforms such as Sky Go, Now, Discovery+ and TNT Sports.

Geo-targeting and automated buying lower entry costs, opening opportunities for smaller or local brands. Frequency capping and brand safety controls are in place.

The move aims to democratise live sport advertising, making premium content more accessible while ensuring reach, flexibility and emotional audience engagement in a fragmented media landscape.

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Apple rebrands Search Ads business as Apple Ads, reports 9to5 Mac

General

Apr 14, 2025

Apple has rebranded its advertising business from ‘Search Ads’ to ‘Apple Ads’ to better reflect its broader offering beyond search results. Originally limited to promoting apps via App Store search, Apple now offers ad placements in the Today tab, Search tab, and on app product pages.

The new name aligns with the company’s growing advertising scope and may signal further expansion, such as ads in Apple Maps. Apple stated the name change reflects the evolution from a single search placement in 2016 to a wider ad network.

The update was announced to developers participating in the platform.

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Netflix Aims to Join the $1 Trillion Club, reports WSJ

General

Apr 14, 2025

Netflix aims to double its revenue to $78 billion and reach a $1 trillion market capitalisation by 2030. At a recent internal meeting, executives shared goals including tripling operating income and reaching $9 billion in global ad sales.

The company, currently valued at nearly $400 billion, plans to grow its 301 million subscriber base to 410 million by focusing on international markets like India and Brazil. Netflix’s ad-supported tier is gaining traction, now making up 43% of U.S. sign-ups.

Despite potential economic risks from U.S. tariffs, executives believe streaming demand could remain strong during downturns.

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Meta to start training its AI models on public content in the EU, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta will begin training its AI models on public content from Facebook and Instagram users in the EU, following a regulatory pause due to GDPR concerns.

The decision comes after engagement with the Irish Data Protection Commission and a favourable opinion from the European Data Protection Board. Training will include public posts and interactions with Meta AI, excluding private messages and data from users under 18. Users will be notified and can opt out. Meta argues the data is essential to build AI tailored to European users.

The DPC continues to investigate how AI models are trained, including Elon Musk’s xAI.

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OpenAI launches new GPT-4.1 models with improved coding, long context comprehension, reports Reuters

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has launched its new GPT-4.1 model, along with GPT-4.1 mini and nano, boasting significant improvements in coding, instruction following, and long-context comprehension.

Available via API only, these models outperform GPT-4o and GPT-4.5, supporting up to 1 million tokens and updated with knowledge up to June 2024. GPT-4.1 shows a 21% coding improvement over GPT-4o and operates at a lower cost than GPT-4.5. OpenAI will retire the GPT-4.5 preview in July.

CEO Sam Altman said the focus was on real-world utility, with developers responding positively to the models’ enhanced capabilities for powering AI agents.

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Zuckerberg Revisits Instagram Buy in FTC Meta Monopoly Case, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 14, 2025

Mark Zuckerberg testified in federal court as part of the US Federal Trade Commission’s antitrust trial seeking to unwind Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp. The FTC argues Meta bought these companies to eliminate competition, citing internal emails in which Zuckerberg expressed concern about rivals’ mobile growth.

The trial, expected to last two months, could result in Meta being forced to divest both platforms. Meta contends it competes broadly with companies like TikTok and YouTube.

The FTC claims these were “killer acquisitions” that harmed competition, while Meta argues the deals were lawful and previously approved by regulators.

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Apple to Analyze User Data on Devices to Bolster AI Technology, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple will begin using on-device analysis of user data to enhance its AI platform while maintaining privacy. The system compares synthetic data with real emails stored locally to refine AI features like summaries and Writing Tools. No personal data is collected or sent to Apple. The update, part of iOS, iPadOS 18.5 and macOS 15.5 betas, aims to close the gap with AI leaders like OpenAI and Google.

Apple will continue to use differential privacy and only apply these improvements for users who opt in.

The move follows internal restructuring in Apple’s AI team amid ongoing efforts to advance Siri and Apple Intelligence.

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Google is using the cloud to pitch creative AI tools, reports Digiday

General

Apr 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

At Google Cloud Next, Google unveiled a suite of generative AI tools—Veo 2 for video, Imagen 3 for images, Lyria for music, and Chirp 3 for voice—to support creative content production. Brands like L’Oréal and Kraft Heinz are using them to scale output and cut production time. Agencies including GS&P and WPP are integrating these tools into creative workflows.

Google aims to move beyond ad distribution to influence content creation itself.

However, analysts noted the company missed the chance to address industry concerns around creator compensation and synthetic media transparency during the event’s keynote.

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Meta resorted to buy-or-bury scheme with Instagram and WhatsApp deals, former FTC Chair Lina Khan says, reports CNBC

General

Apr 14, 2025

Former FTC Chair Lina Khan claimed Facebook panicked during the rise of smartphones, acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp in a "buy-or-bury" strategy to neutralise competition. The FTC’s antitrust case, which begins trial this week, accuses Meta of monopolising the social networking market through these purchases. Meta denies the allegations, asserting it holds no monopoly.

Khan argued that these deals reshaped the social networking landscape and highlighted the importance of free and fair trade. A court ruling could potentially force Meta to divest the platforms.

Khan noted there’s still a chance of settlement before the trial ends but emphasised the case’s ongoing uncertainty.

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Netflix Tests New AI Search Engine to Recommend Shows, Movies, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 12, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Netflix is trialling an AI-powered search tool that allows users to find content using specific queries, including by mood. Currently available to select iOS users in Australia and New Zealand, the feature will soon expand to more markets, including the US. Powered by OpenAI, the tool goes beyond traditional searches by genre or actor.

Netflix has long used AI for recommendations and is exploring further applications in production and internal processes. Co-CEO Ted Sarandos said AI will enhance, not replace, creative roles.

Unlike usual feature rollouts, this tool requires users to opt in to participate in the test.

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Meta adds Dina Powell McCormick, Patrick Collison to board, reports Axios

General

Apr 11, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Meta has appointed Dina Powell McCormick, a former senior Republican official and banking executive, and Patrick Collison, CEO of Stripe, to its board, effective 15 April. The move is part of Meta’s strategy to expand its board with global business experts and build stronger ties with the Trump administration.

Powell McCormick brings experience from Goldman Sachs and roles under both Trump and Bush. Collison co-founded Stripe and previously advised Meta.

Their appointments align with Meta’s focus on supporting small businesses and preparing for upcoming challenges, including an antitrust trial. The company is also signalling political alignment ahead of the U.S. election.

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Ex-OpenAI Staff Oppose Startup Overhaul in Musk Legal Fight, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 11, 2025

A group of twelve former OpenAI employees is opposing the company’s proposed restructuring into a for-profit entity, arguing it undermines its nonprofit mission. Represented by Harvard professor Lawrence Lessig, they support maintaining the nonprofit’s controlling stake. Elon Musk, who co-founded OpenAI and now runs rival firm xAI, has also legally challenged the overhaul, claiming it betrays the organisation’s founding principles.

OpenAI argues the new structure—becoming a public benefit corporation—will still serve the public good while attracting funding.

A trial is set for March, and OpenAI has filed a countersuit accusing Musk of deliberately attempting to damage the company’s reputation.

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Ireland’s Privacy Watchdog Probes Musk’s Grok AI Model, reports WSJ

General

Apr 11, 2025

Ireland’s Data Protection Commission has launched an investigation into Elon Musk’s Grok AI chatbot, developed by xAI, over concerns it may have breached EU data protection laws. The probe focuses on whether Grok was unlawfully trained using personal data from European users on Musk’s X platform.

This follows an earlier agreement by X to halt the use of EU citizens’ data for AI training. The inquiry adds to existing tensions between Musk and European regulators, particularly over the Digital Services Act.

Last month, xAI acquired X in a deal valuing the companies at $80 billion and $33 billion respectively.

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TikTok Lays Off Staff in Its US-Based Ecommerce Unit, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 11, 2025

TikTok has laid off staff from its U.S.-based ecommerce global governance and experience team, which oversees seller compliance and product listings in TikTok Shop. The exact number of layoffs is unclear, but the move follows internal criticism of the team’s performance and low annual review scores for some employees.

It comes amid wider restructuring and senior executive departures.

TikTok also faces growing pressure in the U.S., with no buyer yet found for its American operations. This, along with parent company ByteDance’s entanglement in U.S.-China tariff tensions, adds further uncertainty to TikTok’s future in the market.

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TikTok Drives ByteDance’s 29% Growth While China Business Slows, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 11, 2025

ByteDance’s revenue rose 29% to $155 billion in 2024, driven by TikTok’s rapid international growth, which saw a 63% increase in overseas sales to $39 billion. Net profit reached around $33 billion. However, overall growth slowed compared to 2023.

While TikTok’s expansion offset weaker performance in China, its future remains uncertain amid U.S. pressure to divest. Amazon and AppLovin have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations. Rising trade tensions could hinder a deal and impact TikTok’s e-commerce.

ByteDance is also investing in generative AI, with its chatbot Doubao gaining popularity. The company is valued at over $400 billion by some investors.

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Google lays off hundreds of employees in Android, Pixel group, The Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Apr 11, 2025

Google has laid off hundreds of employees from its platforms and devices unit, which includes teams working on Android, Pixel phones and the Chrome browser, according to The Information. The cuts follow voluntary buyout offers made in January. A Google spokesperson said the move is part of efforts to streamline operations after merging the Platforms and Devices teams last year.

This follows previous job reductions, including cuts in Google’s cloud division and the announcement in January 2023 to eliminate 12,000 roles globally.

Google has not yet responded to Reuters’ request for comment on the latest layoffs.

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OpenAI slashes AI model safety testing time, reports FT

General

Apr 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has significantly reduced the time and resources spent on safety testing its AI models, raising concerns about public risk. While earlier models like GPT-4 underwent months of testing, upcoming models such as o3 are reportedly given only days.

Insiders blame competitive pressures, with OpenAI racing rivals to release more powerful models. Critics argue that some dangerous capabilities may go undetected and claim OpenAI is not fulfilling earlier commitments to test for misuse risks.

Although OpenAI defends its streamlined evaluation methods, experts warn that testing near-final rather than final versions could compromise safety and transparency.

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Google officially rolls out links in AI Overviews to its own search results, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has officially launched a feature in AI Overviews that links certain terms to new Google Search results, aiming to help users explore topics more easily. These underlined terms redirect users to further searches, while smaller link icons still direct to third-party websites. Google claims this improves the search experience by reducing the need for users to enter separate queries.

The feature is currently live in English in the U.S. for desktop and mobile.

However, publishers are concerned this will divert more traffic back to Google itself rather than external sites, potentially impacting their visibility and referral traffic.

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Google Performance Max gets new customer goals and image controls, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google Ads has introduced customer lifecycle features in Performance Max, enabling advertisers to bid more strategically for lapsed customers and better track acquisition costs. New retention goals allow prioritisation of high-value former users, while acquisition modes now show customer acquisition cost in campaign reports.

Performance Max also gains enhanced image tools, including automatic sourcing of images from landing pages and smart cropping for more ad variations. Future updates will include uncropping and animations.

These changes aim to improve reporting, creative control, and customer value focus, supporting advertisers' shift towards lifetime value rather than solely acquisition.

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Media Orgs Urge Judge To Block Trump Order Targeting Law Firm, reports MediaPost

General

Apr 10, 2025

Over 60 media organisations and advocacy groups have urged a U.S. judge to permanently strike down Donald Trump’s executive order targeting law firm Perkins Coie, which represented Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign and supported voting rights cases. They argue the order, which cancels federal contracts and restricts access to government buildings, could deter law firms from representing media clients in disputes with the government.

Legal experts and 350 law professors also oppose the order, warning it undermines the rule of law and threatens press freedom.

Judge Beryl Howell previously issued a temporary restraining order, and a permanent decision is now being sought.

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Judge Rejects Deal To Pause X Corp.-Twitch Battle Until Next Year, reports MediaPost

General

Apr 10, 2025

A U.S. judge has rejected X Corp.’s request to pause its lawsuit against Twitch until January 2026, stating it would be inefficient to keep the case open for nine months after a reported settlement.

The proposed deal, whose terms were undisclosed, would have allowed Twitch until year-end to meet conditions before X either dropped the case or filed a status update. Judge Jane Boyle granted a 45-day pause instead, urging finalisation of terms.

The lawsuit, filed by Elon Musk’s X Corp., alleges that Twitch and others contributed to an advertiser boycott orchestrated by GARM, resulting in significant revenue losses for the platform.

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OpenAI Says Musk’s Relentless Campaign to Hurt It Must Stop, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 10, 2025

OpenAI has accused Elon Musk of conducting a year-long campaign to undermine the company through legal claims, media attacks and a false takeover bid, aiming to benefit his rival AI firm, xAI.

In a 100-page court filing, OpenAI urged a federal court to halt Musk’s actions, citing reputational and financial damage, and is seeking a jury trial. Musk’s original lawsuit alleges OpenAI strayed from its charitable roots by partnering with Microsoft.

A trial is scheduled for March 2025, setting up a major legal battle between Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman over the company’s transformation into a for-profit entity.

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Trump says TikTok deal is still on the table, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 10, 2025

President Trump stated a deal to spin off TikTok’s U.S. assets remains possible, despite legal and political hurdles.

The proposed plan would create a U.S.-based entity, majority-owned by American investors, reducing Chinese ownership. Trump has extended the divestment deadline to 19 June, after twice delaying enforcement of a ban.

Some Senators argue he lacks legal authority to grant extensions and warn any deal must sever ties with China. Chinese government approval remains a key obstacle. Meanwhile, ongoing U.S.–China trade tensions complicate progress, and the Justice Department has paused enforcement, allowing TikTok to remain available via Apple and Google app stores.

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Amazon CEO Says Generative AI Will Reinvent Every Customer Experience, reports WSJ

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy highlighted generative AI as central to the company’s future, with over 1,000 AI projects set to transform customer experiences across shopping, media, healthcare, and more.

In his annual shareholder letter, Jassy stressed that companies not embracing AI risk falling behind. He also discussed the impact of tariffs, noting that Amazon pre-emptively bought inventory and renegotiated supplier terms. While AI remains costly, Jassy expects prices to fall with advancements in Amazon’s own chip technology.

He emphasised in-person collaboration for innovation, requiring 350,000 corporate staff to return to offices full-time from January to accelerate progress.

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EU could tax Big Tech if Trump trade talks fail, says von der Leyen, reports FT

General

Apr 10, 2025

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has warned that if negotiations with the US fail during President Trump’s 90-day tariff pause, the EU may impose retaliatory measures, including levies on US digital advertising revenues. These could target tech firms like Meta and Google.

The EU is also considering tariffs on services and scrap metal exports, and has paused planned retaliation against US steel and aluminium tariffs. Von der Leyen ruled out negotiating on VAT or digital market regulations, citing sovereignty.

She stressed the need for WTO reform and expressed concern over Chinese goods redirected to Europe due to US tariffs.

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Google's Vulnerability In Search Is Growing, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google’s global search market share dropped below 90% in late 2024 for the first time since 2015, a trend continuing into 2025, indicating growing competition and shifting user behaviour. Rivals like Bing, Perplexity, and ChatGPT Search are gaining traction, especially among younger users.

Google’s AI Overviews tool has drawn concern from publishers over reduced traffic, though early impact appears minimal. Despite handling five trillion annual searches, Google faces regulatory pressure and a monopoly lawsuit. Unlike newer AI-native search engines offering revenue-sharing to publishers, Google has yet to follow suit.

Analysts say Google is at a pivotal moment as market dynamics shift.

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Two Lawsuits Allege The Trade Desk Secretly Violates Consumer Privacy Laws, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

Two class action lawsuits allege The Trade Desk violated U.S. and California privacy laws by secretly tracking users and monetising personal data without consent.

Filed in March 2025, the suits target its Unified ID 2.0 and Adsrvr Pixel technologies, which allegedly collect identifiable data to build user profiles for real-time bidding. Plaintiffs argue this circumvents privacy protections and exposes data to third parties. Legal experts say the claims raise serious issues, with courts likely to scrutinise the tracking methods.

The Trade Desk, already under pressure due to weak revenues and dissatisfaction with its Kokai platform, has not commented on the allegations.

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Lumen research appoints matt bennathan as chief commercial officer

General

Apr 10, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Lumen Research has appointed Matt Bennathan as Chief Commercial Officer, bringing over 25 years of martech and adtech experience. Bennathan joins from Zeotap Data and has previously held senior roles at eXelate, Nielsen Marketing Cloud and Oracle Data Cloud. He will oversee global partnerships, platforms, publishers and buy-side relationships, driving commercial growth as advertisers increasingly invest in attention metrics.

Lumen’s data helps brands optimise media and creative strategies by measuring consumer attention.

CEO Mike Follett welcomed Bennathan’s appointment, praising his industry expertise and alignment with Lumen’s values as the company targets further success in 2025.

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BeReal Is Selling Ads in the U.S., Cashing In on TikTok Uncertainty, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 10, 2025

BeReal is launching its ad business in the U.S. following successful ad rollouts in Europe and Japan. Acquired by Voodoo for €500 million, the app claims 40 million monthly users globally, with 5 million in the U.S.

Former TikTok executive Ben Moore is leading the U.S. effort, positioning BeReal as a safer, more authentic alternative to polished platforms like TikTok. Brands such as Nike and Netflix have already tested ads. BeReal offers in-feed ads and homepage takeovers, with plans to introduce performance-focused formats and a self-serve platform.

The move comes amid uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the U.S. advertising landscape.

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Publishers watch warily as tariffs loom over ad budgets and print costs, reports Digiday

General

Apr 10, 2025

Publishers are closely monitoring the potential impact of President Trump’s tariffs, which include a 124% hike on Chinese goods and proposed levies on Canadian newsprint. While few have adjusted forecasts, many expect reduced ad revenue, especially from luxury brands and fashion.

Smaller U.S. newspapers face rising print costs and possible closures, risking more “news deserts.” Publishers cite increased direct ad buying and stronger subscriber engagement.

Meanwhile, national and local media outlets brace for long-term challenges, with industry bodies urging government reconsideration and helping publishers strategise to offset higher costs and navigate macroeconomic uncertainty driven by shifting trade and tariff policies.

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Potential buyers are probing Yahoo’s ad tech assets, reports Digiday

M&A

Apr 10, 2025

Yahoo has held early talks with investment banks and potential buyers about selling its demand-side platform (DSP), following inbound interest. Owned by Apollo Global since 2021, Yahoo has already scaled back its ad tech assets and formed a partnership with Taboola. While a formal sale process is not underway, speculation around divestment has grown in 2025.

The DSP is seen as a strong independent platform, appealing to buyers seeking alternatives to Big Tech. However, concerns remain about profitability without Yahoo’s data assets.

Market uncertainty, particularly around tariffs and regulation, may affect merger activity in the near term.

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Uber Is Working With Rival Instacart To Sell Ads, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

Uber has partnered with rival Instacart to let its Carrot Ads platform sell ads on Uber Eats in the U.S., replacing previous partner Criteo.

The deal allows consumer-packaged goods brands to buy Sponsored Items and shoppable display ads across both platforms. It aims to offer advertisers broader reach and better product discoverability.

This collaboration reflects growing consolidation in retail media, as brands seek scale across platforms. Instacart continues to compete with firms like Epsilon and Koddi, while Uber retains Criteo in non-U.S. markets. Analysts see the move as signalling a broader trend of tie-ups in the retail media space.

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Meta rolling out new feature to find your X friends on Threads, reports 9to5 Mac

General

Apr 9, 2025

Meta is introducing a new Threads feature that helps users switch from X by allowing them to follow the same popular creators. Currently in beta, the tool requires users to request and download their data archive from X, locate the “following.js” file, and upload it to Threads.net.

While the process is not seamless due to X’s API restrictions, it addresses a common frustration of rebuilding social networks across platforms. The feature is not yet widely available, but users can check Threads on the web for access.

Meta’s move aims to ease migration amid ongoing fragmentation in the social media landscape.

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Reddit’s conversational AI search tool leverages Google Gemini, reports TechCrunch

General

Apr 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Reddit has upgraded its AI search tool, Reddit Answers, by integrating Google’s Gemini via the Vertex AI platform. This enhancement aims to improve search relevance and deliver quicker, curated responses from user-generated content.

Initially launched in beta in December 2024, Reddit Answers helps users find summarised advice from posts without leaving the platform. The update strengthens Reddit’s position against AI firms using its data, such as OpenAI.

User responses have been mixed, with some praising its utility and others criticising it as a less effective alternative to X’s Grok AI. The feature is currently available in English in the U.S.

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Walmart Confident About Tariff Resilience Despite Sales Volatility, reports WSJ

General

Apr 9, 2025

Walmart remains confident in its strategy despite economic uncertainty and volatility, CEO Doug McMillon told investors. CFO John David Rainey noted fluctuating consumer sentiment has increased sales unpredictability, affecting short-term income forecasts.

While maintaining its 3–4% sales growth guidance, Walmart highlighted a wider range of potential Q1 income outcomes due to tariffs, product mix, and other costs. The retailer sources most goods domestically but is assessing tariff impacts, particularly on Chinese and Mexican imports.

Notably, Walmart’s e-commerce arm is profitable this quarter and expected to remain so annually, having driven half of its sales growth over the past five years.

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Formula One’s TV Rights Are Up for Grabs, but Media Companies Aren’t Racing to Bid, reports WSJ

General

Apr 9, 2025

Formula One (F1) is seeking a new U.S. rights deal worth $150 million to $180 million annually, but faces challenges as media companies struggle with rising costs and changing consumer habits.

Despite growing U.S. viewership, streaming services and networks like ESPN, Netflix, and Amazon are hesitant to meet F1’s asking price. While F1’s global popularity continues to rise, particularly through Netflix's "Drive to Survive," the sport’s live races aren’t drawing significant U.S. audiences.

The upcoming deal will play a crucial role in determining F1's future in the U.S. amid increasing competition from other major sports leagues.

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Samsung Ads and Magnite Expand Partnership to Better Target Streaming Ads, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

Magnite has expanded its partnership with Samsung Ads to enhance targeted advertising in streaming through its Magnite Access platform. The tool enables Samsung Ads to manage audience data more efficiently, improving campaign speed and performance.

The collaboration has already delivered double-digit revenue growth for Samsung Ads, which now has the largest single source of TV data in the U.S.

With new capabilities like real-time audience discovery and campaign activation, the renewed deal also supports Samsung’s international expansion of its FAST and AVOD service, Samsung TV Plus, now active in Southeast Asia, with Magnite providing programmatic access in the region.

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Europe unveils plan to become AI continent with simpler rules, more infrastructure, reports CNBC

General

Apr 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

The European Union has unveiled its “AI Continent Action Plan” to boost competitiveness in artificial intelligence and address criticisms that its regulations hinder innovation. The plan includes building AI factories, improving access to training data for startups, and launching an AI Act Service Desk to help firms navigate new regulations.

While aiming to transform Europe’s industry and talent into AI leaders, the plan follows complaints from tech firms that the AI Act is restrictive.

Both the U.S. and some European countries have urged a more innovation-friendly approach, fearing Europe could fall behind in the global AI race.

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Meta Whistleblower to Tell Congress That Company Aided China in AI Race, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 9, 2025

Former Meta executive Sarah Wynn-Williams is set to testify before the US Senate, alleging that Meta endangered national security by aiding China’s AI development. In prepared remarks, she claims Meta briefed the Chinese Communist Party on emerging technologies from 2015 to help China surpass US firms.

Meta denies the allegations, calling them false and unsubstantiated.

Although Meta never launched services in China, Wynn-Williams points to ongoing advertising revenue from Chinese clients. Her memoir, Careless People, prompted bipartisan scrutiny and an investigation led by Senator Josh Hawley into Meta’s alleged ties to China and its provision of AI tools for surveillance.

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China says any TikTok deal has to comply with Chinese law, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 9, 2025

China’s commerce ministry stated that specific business arrangements, including technology exports, must undergo government review, in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 75-day extension of the TikTok sale deadline.

The ministry criticised actions that disregard market economy principles, describing them as coercive and harmful to the legitimate rights and interests of businesses.

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Musk’s X reaches deal to drop Twitch from lawsuit over ad spending, reports Reuters

General

Apr 9, 2025

Elon Musk’s X has agreed to settle its legal dispute with Twitch, which it accused of conspiring with others to boycott the platform and cause ad revenue losses. X filed the antitrust lawsuit in November, targeting around a dozen companies and the World Federation of Advertisers. A memorandum of understanding states the case will be dropped if Twitch meets certain conditions by year-end.

X previously settled with Unilever, which said the platform agreed to uphold brand safety standards. Other defendants, including CVS, Pinterest and Colgate-Palmolive, remain in the case.

Ad spend on X declined significantly after Musk’s acquisition in October 2022.

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Democratic US senators question Google and Microsoft's AI deals, reports Reuters

General

Apr 9, 2025

U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ron Wyden have requested details from Microsoft and Google about their cloud partnerships with AI firms OpenAI and Anthropic, expressing concern these deals may stifle competition. The senators questioned whether the arrangements grant exclusive licensing rights, involve significant payments, or could lead to acquisitions. They warned such partnerships may limit choice and raise prices for AI users. A prior FTC report highlighted concerns, including clauses restricting independent model launches by AI firms and advance notice requirements.

Microsoft and Google have yet to comment.

The inquiry reflects growing scrutiny of Big Tech’s influence in AI development.

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The Trade Desk’s Strategy for Its CTV OS Ventura: Give the Money Away, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 9, 2025

The Trade Desk is promoting its new connected TV operating system, Ventura, to smart TV manufacturers by offering it for free and allowing them to retain most ad revenue.

Aiming to disrupt a saturated market dominated by companies like Roku and Amazon, Ventura promises OEMs greater control, ongoing monetisation via ads and subscriptions, and no content conflict. The modular OS avoids taking an inventory cut, aiming to eliminate opaque advertising practices.

While it has yet to secure confirmed partners, The Trade Desk sees Ventura as a way for OEMs to boost margins and reclaim control over ad and content monetisation.

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IPG’s latest appointment confirms AI chiefs are the latest holdco must-have, reports Digiday

General

Apr 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Interpublic Group (IPG) has appointed tech entrepreneur Yaniv Sarig as global head of AI commerce to accelerate the integration of agentic AI into its commerce and performance media offerings.

His role, created specifically to retain him after a consultancy stint, reflects a wider trend of agency groups hiring AI chiefs to stay competitive. Sarig will lead AI-driven e-commerce initiatives and integrate Intelligence Node’s data tools across IPG’s agencies.

Agentic AI is expected to help optimise client strategies in real time. Similar moves have been made by rivals like Stagwell, highlighting the marketing industry’s increasing focus on AI innovation and automation.

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Disney expands global ad tech platform, reports Axios

General

Apr 8, 2025

Disney has expanded its proprietary customer data and ad tech capabilities to Europe, enhancing its global advertising reach. The company’s audience graph and Bridge ID identity solution, already active in Latin America, will now roll out across European markets.

Advertisers can now buy ad inventory across Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ live events through a unified platform using biddable automation. This development supports real-time ad targeting, especially for live sports.

With 157 million global monthly ad-supported users, Disney is also exploring partnerships, including automated ad deals in Latin America via Google and Magnite, to simplify ad buying across its streaming services.

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EU decisions on Apple and Meta due in coming weeks, antitrust chief says, reports Reuters

General

Apr 8, 2025

The European Commission will deliver its decision in the coming weeks on whether Apple and Meta have breached the EU's Digital Markets Act, aimed at limiting the dominance of major tech firms. The investigation, launched in March 2023, could result in modest fines for both companies.

Meta has criticised the expected rulings, accusing the Commission of targeting successful American firms while sparing Chinese and European competitors.

The developments come amid escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and EU, particularly following President Trump’s tariffs, with some EU member states pushing for stronger action against American digital services.

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Senator Warner says new Trump TikTok extension may violate law, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 8, 2025

Senator Mark Warner criticised President Trump’s decision to extend the deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. assets, arguing it violates the 2024 law requiring a full separation to protect national security.

The reported deal under consideration would allow ByteDance to retain influence through equity and technological roles, which Warner says fails to meet legal requirements. The plan would spin off TikTok’s U.S. operations into a U.S.-based, majority American-owned company. Warner warned this structure does not ensure a clean break or prevent ByteDance from accessing U.S. user data.

China’s approval remains a key obstacle to finalising any agreement.

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Walmart Asks Brands to Boost Ad Spend by at Least 25% Despite Sales Stagnation, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Walmart is requesting brands increase their annual retail media spend by around 25%, with some brands facing demands of up to 50%.

Despite rising investments, many consumer packaged goods companies report little or no sales growth, prompting some to opt out of joint business plans (JBPs) due to rigid terms and lack of guarantees. Brands risk losing benefits like data fee discounts and reporting access if spending targets aren’t met.

Advertisers are increasingly frustrated with the inflexibility of retail media deals, particularly as economic pressure mounts and Walmart’s required spend is notably higher than other retail media networks.

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Sam’s Club Selects Publicis Groupe as Integrated Agency of Record, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Sam’s Club has appointed Publicis Groupe as its integrated agency of record, consolidating creative, media, social, and production duties previously split between Horizon Next and Arnold Worldwide.

The move follows a three-month review and reflects a wider industry trend toward integrated agency models. Interim CMO W. Joe DeMiero said the partnership aims to create more connected and personalised member experiences. Publicis, which already handles Walmart U.S.’ media, beat Dentsu in the final round of the pitch.

The decision follows a strong year for Sam’s Club, with 6.3% U.S. sales growth to $90.2 billion, excluding fuel.

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Paramount and Experian to Partner in New Ad Data Initiative, reports AdWeek

General

Apr 8, 2025

Paramount Vantage has partnered with Experian to deliver more personalised, data-driven advertising through enhanced audience targeting. Using data from Experian’s Partner Innovation Initiative, Paramount will gain real-time insights to connect with consumers at optimal moments. The collaboration aims to improve ad performance and content relevance while maintaining a non-intrusive viewer experience.

aramount’s Travis Scoles said the partnership strengthens their ability to meet audience needs, while Experian’s Chris Feo highlighted the importance of precise, timely marketing.

The initiative is expected to set new standards in personalised video advertising by enabling more effective customer engagement across Paramount’s platforms.

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Some news publishers see resurgence of Facebook referral traffic, but aren’t sure what to make of it, reports Digiday

General

Apr 8, 2025

News Publishing

Some news publishers, including Newsweek, The Hill and Salon, are reporting a resurgence in Facebook referral traffic in early 2025, driven by increased interest in political content and possible algorithm changes. Newsweek saw traffic from social platforms rise tenfold year-on-year in March, while The Hill and Salon reported significant increases in engagement and views.

However, the uptick is not industry-wide, and publishers remain cautious, citing Meta’s past unpredictability. The shift appears to be platform-driven, with little change in publisher strategies.

Despite renewed investment, concerns remain about future traffic impacts from potential changes like Facebook’s new Friends tab.

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Meta Draws Congress’ Scrutiny Over Ex-Worker’s China Claims, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 7, 2025

US lawmakers are investigating claims by former Facebook employee Sarah Wynn-Williams that CEO Mark Zuckerberg misled Congress about Facebook’s attempts to enter the Chinese market. In her memoir, Wynn-Williams details the company’s mid-2010s ambitions to launch in China, which ultimately failed due to censorship.

Senator Josh Hawley is leading the probe, citing concerns about Meta’s alleged support for Chinese censorship and provision of AI tools to the Chinese Communist Party, potentially impacting dissidents abroad. Meta denies current operations in China and maintains it abandoned such efforts in 2019.

Wynn-Williams has been invited to testify before a Senate subcommittee this week.

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Google’s AI Mode can now see and search with images, reports The Verge

General

Apr 7, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has expanded its AI Mode search assistant, adding multimodal capabilities that allow it to interpret and respond to images. By combining Gemini AI with Google Lens, users can now upload or take pictures in the Google app and receive detailed responses with links. The system uses a “fan-out technique” to generate nuanced, context-aware results.

Previously limited to Google One AI Premium subscribers, AI Mode is now being rolled out to millions more users in the US via Labs.

The update marks Google’s response to competitors like ChatGPT and Perplexity by enhancing its visual and contextual understanding in search.

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Google AI Search Shift Leaves Website Makers Feeling Betrayed, reports Bloomberg

General

Apr 7, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Independent website owners are reporting significant declines in Google referral traffic, with some losing up to 90%, following the rollout of AI Overviews and algorithm changes.

Many say the new system, which summarises web content directly in search results, reduces user click-throughs and threatens their businesses. Publishers claim this shift favours larger brands and forums over smaller, high-quality sites, despite following Google’s content guidelines. Google denies AI Overviews are harming traffic, but publishers argue the changes sever their relationship with audiences.

Some have shut down, while others are exploring alternative platforms like YouTube to rebuild their reach and revenue.

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Advertisers pull back from TikTok, boost Meta amid ban uncertainty, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 7, 2025

TikTok faced increased pressure in Q1 2025 as major brands reduced ad spend amid uncertainty over a potential U.S. ban. CPMs dropped significantly, with eight of the platform’s top ten advertiser categories cutting budgets compared to Q1 2024. A brief service blackout in January further dented confidence. Despite this, TikTok is projected to earn $14.8 billion in U.S. ad revenue this year.

Advertisers are shifting spend to Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, whose short-form video CPMs are rising.

While some brands remain active on TikTok, many are cautious, awaiting the outcome of acquisition talks and the looming mid-June regulatory deadline.

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TikTok Deal Stalled by China’s Objections to Tariffs, Trump Says, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Apr 7, 2025

President Trump said China’s objections to new US tariffs stalled a near-finalised deal to sell TikTok to American investors. The proposed sale, involving Oracle, Blackstone and Andreessen Horowitz, required approval from both the US and Chinese governments.

Trump claimed that if he had reduced tariffs, China would have approved the deal swiftly. Instead, his administration imposed further tariffs, prompting Chinese retaliation.

ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, is required by US law to sell the app’s US operations, but has resisted. Trump has now granted another 75-day extension to avoid a ban while negotiations continue amid rising US-China trade tensions.

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A Look Inside Aquila, The ANA’s Still-Cooking, Cross-Media Measurement Platform, reports AdExchanger

General

Apr 7, 2025

The Association of National Advertisers (ANA) is launching Aquila, a cross-channel measurement platform developed by its for-profit arm, Aquila LLC. Aimed at delivering deduplicated reach and frequency data across platforms like Google, Meta, and Amazon, Aquila uses census-level impression data and a Kantar Media panel.

Though not set to launch until 2026, the ANA is seeking marketer feedback and financial support. The platform will offer both API and UI options, focusing on functionality over features like AI.

While technically for-profit, Aquila aims to operate at break-even and serve as a standardised tool for advertisers rather than compete commercially.

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Meta releases new AI model Llama 4, reports Reuters

General

Apr 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has launched its latest large language models, Llama 4 Scout and Llama 4 Maverick, which it claims are its most advanced and best-in-class for multimodality, capable of processing text, images, audio, and video. Both models will be open source. Meta also previewed Llama 4 Behemoth, described as its most powerful model to date.

The launch follows previous delays due to concerns over performance in reasoning and maths, and in comparison with OpenAI's capabilities in voice interaction.

Meta plans to invest up to $65 billion in AI infrastructure this year to meet growing investor expectations.

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Musk and OpenAI jury trial to begin in spring next year, reports Reuters

General

Apr 5, 2025

Elon Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI will proceed to a jury trial in spring 2026, following a federal judge’s decision. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but later left, accuses the company and CEO Sam Altman of abandoning its non-profit mission to pursue profit.

The dispute centres on OpenAI’s shift to a for-profit model, which Musk claims contradicts its founding principles. OpenAI argues the move is essential to secure funding in the competitive AI sector.

The lawsuit follows Musk’s failed attempt to acquire OpenAI and coincides with his expansion of xAI, which recently acquired social media platform X.

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Microsoft officially launches Copilot Search in Bing, reports Search Engine Land

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft has officially launched Copilot Search in Bing, combining traditional search with generative AI to streamline the user experience.

Accessible via Bing.com, related topic links, or a direct URL, the tool aims to reduce scrolling by delivering concise summaries, clear answers, and structured information. It includes cited sources, images, and videos to support further exploration.

Copilot Search integrates AI to provide a more intuitive search journey, positioning itself as Microsoft’s response to Google’s AI Mode. The feature represents a broader industry push to enhance search engines with generative AI, as companies race to develop the most effective user experience.

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TikTok appoints Thomas Wlazik GM for Europe and Israel, reports The Media Leader

General

Apr 4, 2025

Leadership Transitions

TikTok has appointed Thomas Wlazik as general manager for Europe and Israel, succeeding Stuart Flint, who stepped down after five years. Wlazik, formerly general manager for DACH and Israel, will now oversee broader European operations from Berlin.

The move comes amid leadership changes and uncertainty over TikTok’s future in the US, with parent company ByteDance facing an April 5 deadline to sell its US business or face a ban.

Despite this, TikTok is expanding its ecommerce presence, launching TikTok Shop in more European markets and continuing to promote its Smart+ AI tools to enhance brand and commerce performance on the platform.

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Microsoft unveils AI assistant with memory, reports FT

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft has introduced a more personalised version of its Copilot AI assistant, which can remember user preferences and perform tasks such as booking tickets or shopping online.

Unveiled at its 50th anniversary event, the upgrade is part of Microsoft’s shift to strengthen its consumer AI offering and reduce reliance on OpenAI. The assistant will also include new features like camera-based input and a podcast generator. Consumer AI chief Mustafa Suleyman emphasised user control over the assistant’s “agentic” abilities.

Microsoft continues to invest broadly in AI, while focusing on commercial applications and distancing itself from the pursuit of artificial general intelligence milestones.

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Meta antitrust case poses first big test of Trump’s new FTC, reports FT

General

Apr 4, 2025

Meta and the US Federal Trade Commission are set to face off in court on April 14, in a landmark antitrust trial that could force Meta to unwind its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.

The case, viewed as a major test for Trump-appointed FTC chair Andrew Ferguson, signals continued scrutiny of Big Tech. Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly lobbied President Trump in hopes of avoiding trial.

The FTC accuses Meta of stifling competition through a “buy or bury” strategy. If found guilty, Meta could face structural remedies, although such actions are complex given the age of the acquisitions. A settlement remains possible.

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Walmart denies ABC News report it could join investor group to buy TikTok, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 4, 2025

Walmart has denied reports that it is considering joining a group of investors to buy TikTok, following claims made by ABC News. ABC’s story, which suggested Walmart’s interest was sparked by Amazon’s involvement, was later removed from its website.

A Walmart spokesperson confirmed the report was incorrect. ABC News has not commented on the retraction. Walmart had previously explored a joint bid with Microsoft for TikTok in 2020.

The denial comes as President Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. assets by 75 days to avoid a national ban on the Chinese-owned video app.

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Walmart considers joining investor group to buy TikTok, ABC News reporter says, reports Reuters

M&A

Apr 4, 2025

Walmart is reportedly considering joining a group of investors to purchase the short video app TikTok, according to ABC News reporter Selina Wang in a post on X.

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Meta nears release of new AI model Llama 4 this month, the Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Apr 4, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is expected to release its latest AI model, Llama 4, later this month, though the launch could be delayed again due to performance concerns, particularly in reasoning, maths, and voice interaction. The model reportedly underperformed compared to OpenAI’s offerings.

Meta, under investor pressure to deliver returns, plans to spend up to $65 billion this year on AI infrastructure.

Llama 4 may incorporate methods from Chinese rival DeepSeek, including a “mixture of experts” technique. Initially, the model could launch via Meta AI before being open-sourced. Llama 3, released last year, supports multiple languages and improved coding and maths capabilities.

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