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Disney sends cease and desist letter to Character.AI, reports Axios

General

Sep 30, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Disney has issued a cease-and-desist letter to Character.AI, demanding it stop using its copyrighted characters without authorisation. The company cited reputational risks, particularly after reports of harmful chatbot behaviour involving children.

The letter accused Character.AI of systematically exploiting Disney’s intellectual property, including Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel characters, in ways that could damage its brand. Disney warned of legal action if violations continue.

Character.AI confirmed it had removed the characters, stressing that user-generated content drives the platform but that it responds quickly to rightsholder requests. The case highlights Disney’s tougher stance against AI firms over copyright.

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FuboTV Shareholders Approve Disney Streaming Deal, reports WSJ

M&A

Sep 30, 2025

FuboTV shareholders have approved a merger with Disney’s Hulu + Live TV, giving Disney around a 70% stake while Fubo’s management team leads the combined venture.

The new entity would become the second-largest online pay-TV provider after YouTube TV, with both Hulu + Live TV and Fubo remaining available as separate services for consumers.

The deal follows Fubo’s 2024 lawsuit against Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery over their Venu joint venture, which was blocked by a judge. The combined company is projected to generate over $6 billion in revenue, pending regulatory approval.

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Google Offers More Ad Data to Publishers at DOJ Antitrust Trial, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 30, 2025

Google has offered to share more data with publishers after a U.S. court ruled it illegally monopolised ad technology. At a Virginia antitrust trial, Google’s engineering director Glenn Berntson said providing detailed insights into how its ad server chooses ads could help improve transparency.

The government wants Google forced to divest its ad exchange and disclose auction logic, but Berntson argued publishing source code would be too complex and risk harming publishers. Instead, he suggested offering technical documentation.

Publishers have long criticised Google’s opaque systems, describing its ad auctions as a “black box” where outcomes are difficult to understand.

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OpenAI Launches Video Generator App to Rival TikTok and YouTube, reports WSJ

General

Sep 30, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has unveiled Sora 2, a social-media app for its AI video generator, designed to rival TikTok, YouTube and Meta. The app lets users create high-definition clips with audio from text prompts, upload short personal videos and insert themselves into AI-generated scenes.

The app mimics TikTok’s swipe-and-scroll format with algorithm-driven recommendations. It will launch first on Apple’s App Store in the U.S. and Canada on an invite-only basis, with safeguards including limits on infinite scrolling for under-18s.

Competition is intensifying as Google links Veo 3 to YouTube and Meta and TikTok expand AI video features. Copyright disputes remain a looming risk.

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IPG Wins Bayer’s $720M Global Consumer Health Account, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 30, 2025

Bayer has appointed Interpublic Group (IPG) as global creative, production, and media partner for its Consumer Health division, covering brands such as Aspirin, Claritin, and Alka-Seltzer. The integrated model consolidates Bayer’s agency roster and leverages AI to drive efficiency and effectiveness.

The account, worth an estimated $720 million in 2024 billings, will begin on 1 January. FCB led the pitch and will play a major creative role. IPG’s offering combined data, AI, and creativity to secure the win against rivals WPP and Omnicom.

The partnership comes as IPG prepares for its merger with Omnicom, approved by regulators and expected to close later in 2025.

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DoorDash rolls out creator program for short-form videos, adds AI features and dine-in rewards, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 30, 2025

DoorDash has launched a creator programme, allowing users in 20 U.S. cities to apply to post short-form videos of local restaurant meals. Creators will be compensated if their content qualifies, though details of monetisation remain undisclosed. The scheme will expand to more cities by year-end.

The company also introduced “Going Out,” a feature offering in-store rewards at thousands of restaurants in the U.S. and Australia. Initially exclusive to DashPass members, it is temporarily available to all users. Reservations can also now be booked directly through the app via SevenRooms integration.

Additionally, DoorDash unveiled new AI tools, including personalised homepage recommendations, checkout cart suggestions, and smart menu tags such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or high-protein. These features are available in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with expanded shopping options beyond food.

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Barb’s first 7 weeks of YouTube channel data reveals over-indexing of child audiences, reports The Media Leader

General

Sep 30, 2025

Barb data shows YouTube’s UK TV reach was nearly 22m in late August, below BBC One, ITV1 and Netflix. Measurement of 200 channels revealed strong skew towards children, with Peppa Pig topping weekly rankings. MrBeast, despite global dominance, reached only about 300,000 weekly UK viewers on TV.

Children drive much of YouTube’s TV use, with under-16s accounting for a disproportionate share of viewing. Time spent on TV sets by young audiences has surged as tablet and smartphone viewing has declined.

Barb stressed the need for independent, transparent measurement, noting YouTube’s opaque metrics hinder meaningful advertising comparisons.

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Spotify Names Co-CEOs as Daniel Ek Transitions to Chairman, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 30, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Spotify has appointed Gustav Söderström and Alex Norström as co-chief executives, effective 1 January, as co-founder Daniel Ek becomes executive chairman.

The pair, currently co-presidents, have been central to Spotify’s strategic and operational development. Söderström serves as chief product and technology officer, while Norström is chief business officer.

Ek, who co-founded Spotify in 2006, will remain involved in guiding the company. He said the platform, now with over 700 million users, has transformed listening worldwide. Spotify’s shares fell 5% in early New York trading following the leadership announcement.

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Australia media groups announce $274 million merger as they battle streaming giants, reports Reuters

General

Sep 30, 2025

Seven West Media will merge with Southern Cross Media in a A$417 million deal, combining television, radio and podcast assets to strengthen competition against global streaming giants.

Under the agreement, Seven West shareholders will receive 0.1552 Southern Cross shares each, with Southern Cross investors holding 50.1% of the merged company and Seven West 49.9%. The boards of both firms back the deal.

The merger, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval, is expected to close in early 2026. Seven West CEO Jeff Howard will lead the new group, which forecasts A$25–30 million in annual cost savings within two years.

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OpenAI's first-half revenue rises 16% to about $4.3 billion, The Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Sep 30, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI generated $4.3 billion in revenue in the first half of 2025, already exceeding last year’s total by 16%, according to shareholder disclosures reported by The Information.

The company burned $2.5 billion during the period, largely due to $6.7 billion in research and development costs, including running ChatGPT. It held $17.5 billion in cash and securities at the end of June.

OpenAI is targeting $13 billion in revenue and $8.5 billion in cash burn for the year. It is also exploring a $500 billion valuation stock sale, while Nvidia pledged up to $100 billion investment and chip supply.

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Pinterest tests Top of Search ads to capture high-intent shoppers, reports Search Engine Land

General

Sep 29, 2025

Pinterest has launched Top of Search ads, placing brands within the first 10 search results and Related Pins, where nearly half of user clicks occur. With 96% of searches unbranded, the format aims to capture consumers at early discovery.

The ad units include brand-exclusive placements that showcase catalogues, giving advertisers prominent visibility over competitors. Pinterest positions the format as a high-value performance channel for winning new customers.

Early results show strong returns: average click-through rates rose 29%, ads were 32% more likely to attract new clickers, and Wayfair saw a 237% CTR lift within two weeks.

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YouTube to Pay $24.5 Million to Settle Lawsuit Brought by Trump, reports WSJ

General

Sep 29, 2025

YouTube will pay $24.5 million to settle a lawsuit filed by President Trump over the suspension of his account after the 2021 Capitol riot, making it the last major tech firm to resolve such cases.

Trump will direct $22 million of the settlement to the Trust for the National Mall, funding a White House ballroom project, with $2.5 million going to other plaintiffs. Google declined to comment.

The deal is part of over $80 million in settlements Trump has secured from Big Tech and media firms since his re-election, amid continued scrutiny of Google’s advertising monopoly.

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OpenAI Lets Users Buy Stuff Directly Through ChatGPT, reports WSJ

General

Sep 29, 2025

OpenAI has launched Instant Checkout, allowing US ChatGPT users to purchase single items from Etsy sellers and select Shopify merchants without leaving the chatbot. Payments are processed via Stripe, with merchants paying a small transaction fee.

The company also introduced an open-source Agentic Commerce Protocol, enabling retailers to make products directly shoppable within ChatGPT. While Amazon and Walmart have not adopted the system, OpenAI hopes it will attract more merchants.

With 700 million weekly users, ChatGPT is becoming a major platform for commerce, intensifying competition with Google and Amazon as shopping shifts towards AI-driven assistants.

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OpenAI Is Preparing to Launch a Social App for AI-Generated Videos, reports Wired

General

Sep 29, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI is preparing to launch a stand-alone app for its video model Sora 2, featuring a TikTok-style vertical feed of AI-generated clips up to 10 seconds long. Users can like, comment, remix, and even generate videos using their verified likeness.

The app, tested internally with positive feedback, is seen as a chance to redefine how people engage with AI video, especially amid uncertainty over TikTok’s US future. It will compete with new offerings from Meta and Google, though OpenAI’s strict safeguards often block copyrighted or unsafe content.

The launch comes as OpenAI faces lawsuits, copyright concerns, and child safety scrutiny.

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Horizon Media and Havas form joint venture to collaborate on big pitches, reports AdAge

General

Sep 29, 2025

Horizon Media and Havas are launching Horizon Global, a joint venture aimed at winning major international media reviews and offering an alternative to the biggest holding companies. The venture will be based in New York, with profits split evenly between the partners.

The move comes as Omnicom prepares to acquire IPG, reducing choice for global advertisers. Horizon Global will combine Horizon’s Blu platform with Havas’ Converged.AI, creating BluConverged, and focus on servicing US firms with international reach.

Executives say the partnership provides more options for marketers, though scale challenges remain against larger rivals like WPP and Publicis.

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Comcast Names President as Co-CEO to Serve With Brian Roberts, reports WSJ

General

Sep 29, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Comcast has appointed Michael Cavanagh as co-chief executive alongside longtime CEO and chairman Brian Roberts. Cavanagh, currently president, joined in 2015 after senior roles at JPMorgan Chase, including co-CEO of its Corporate & Investment Bank and CFO.

The leadership shift comes as Comcast faces major challenges, including the $7 billion spinoff of NBCUniversal’s cable networks, expected to complete this year. Bravo and the NBC broadcast network will remain with Comcast.

The move reflects succession planning and recognition of Cavanagh’s contributions. He becomes the first non-Roberts family member to serve as president and will join Comcast’s board of directors.

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Indonesian anti-monopoly agency fines TikTok for late reporting of Tokopedia deal, reports Reuters

M&A

Sep 29, 2025

TikTok has been fined 15 billion rupiah ($900,000) by Indonesia’s anti-monopoly agency for late reporting of its Tokopedia acquisition. The deal, completed in January 2024, saw TikTok acquire a 75.01% stake for $840 million.

A TikTok spokesperson said the company respects the decision and remains committed to fair competition in Indonesia’s market.

The agency, KPPU, has authority to investigate competition law breaches and impose fines or administrative sanctions. The penalty underscores Indonesia’s scrutiny of major tech deals as it seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in its rapidly growing digital economy.

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Musk's X deeply concerned by Indian court order over content takedown, plans appeal, reports Reuters

General

Sep 29, 2025

X has said it is “deeply concerned” after an Indian court rejected its challenge to the government’s new content removal system. The platform, owned by Elon Musk, confirmed it will appeal the decision.

The ruling strengthens New Delhi’s powers to order takedowns, which X has argued amount to censorship and a threat to free expression in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government defends the mechanism as a necessary tool to curb unlawful content and boost accountability online, but tensions with X highlight ongoing disputes over free speech and state control on digital platforms in the country.

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TikTok Announces New Ad Solution for Travel Industry, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 29, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

TikTok has launched Travel Ads powered by Smart+, designed to help brands promote hotels, flights, and destinations through personalised, catalogue-integrated creatives. The tool aims to guide users from discovery to booking with AI-driven automation.

Travel Ads use optimisation models to identify high-intent audiences and match them with tailored offers. Advertisers can combine TikTok’s intent data with their own catalogues to scale campaigns across the customer journey.

Three creative formats are offered: single video with shoppable travel cards, catalogue video ads, and interactive carousel ads. TikTok reports 66% of users find it their most helpful source of travel inspiration.

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Cloudflare updates robots.txt for the AI era - but publishers still want more bite against bots, reports Digiday

General

Sep 29, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Cloudflare has updated robots.txt with a new Content Signals Policy, allowing publishers to specify how AI crawlers use their content. It distinguishes between search, AI training, and crawling, offering publishers greater control and transparency over content use and potential monetisation.

Publishers have welcomed the move as overdue, though concerns remain over enforceability. Without guaranteed compliance, major platforms like Google may still extract value through AI Overviews, blurring the line between search and AI use.

Industry figures see the update as progress and a potential legal precedent, but emphasise it is only a first step towards real accountability.

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Brussels told to prove digital rules do not punish US tech or fix them, reports FT

General

Sep 28, 2025

Donald Trump’s ambassador to the EU, Andrew Puzder, warned Brussels must prove its digital rules do not unfairly punish US tech firms or risk harming transatlantic ties. Washington argues the Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act restrict American companies and infringe on free speech.

Puzder said the US will make formal submissions during the EU’s review, urging clarity on whether rules are discriminatory. He stressed no US president could allow legislation that deliberately harms American interests.

The EU insists its laws apply equally regardless of company origin, though lobbying from Apple, Meta and Google against the DMA continues.

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Amazon loses VP helping lead development of artificial general intelligence, reports Reuters

General

Sep 26, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Amazon vice president Karthik Ramakrishnan, who helped lead its artificial general intelligence efforts, is stepping down after 13 years at the company. He previously worked on Alexa and Echo devices, and his departure follows other recent exits from Amazon’s AI leadership.

AGI aims to match or surpass human intelligence, with potential to transform industries from healthcare to finance. Ramakrishnan’s next role is unknown.

Amazon is under pressure to strengthen its AI standing against rivals like Google and OpenAI. It has invested $8 billion in Anthropic, while AWS leaders urge faster delivery of new AI products to maintain momentum.

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ByteDance to Get About 50% of TikTok US Profit Under Trump Deal, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Sep 26, 2025

ByteDance is set to retain around half of TikTok US’s profits even after selling majority ownership to American investors under a deal driven by Donald Trump. The arrangement includes a licensing fee for its algorithm plus profit from its remaining equity stake.

Although US law mandates ByteDance’s divestment of TikTok US, Trump has delayed enforcement and held direct talks with Xi Jinping as part of ongoing negotiations. Confusion persists over the sale’s value, with Vice President JD Vance citing $14 billion, far below analysts’ $35–40 billion estimates.

Analysts argue the deal undervalues TikTok US, with critics calling the proposed price dramatically misaligned with its true worth.

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Oracle’s Role as Protector of TikTok Data Panned as Rehash of Earlier Plan, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Sep 26, 2025

Donald Trump’s plan to save TikTok places Oracle at the centre of safeguarding US user data and monitoring the app’s recommendation algorithm. Oracle would act as a “firewall”, storing data and inspecting content feeds to address security concerns.

The arrangement mirrors the earlier “Project Texas” partnership between TikTok and Oracle, previously rejected by the Biden administration as inadequate. Critics argue Trump’s plan is effectively “Project Texas 2.0” and fails to fully sever ties with ByteDance.

Scepticism remains in Washington, as ByteDance would still retain under 20% ownership and a board seat in the proposed US TikTok entity.

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US House lawmaker vows full oversight, hearing on TikTok sale deal, reports Reuters

M&A

Sep 26, 2025

The House Select Committee on China will oversee the sale of TikTok’s US assets by Chinese parent company ByteDance, a deal approved under a 2024 law. Chair John Moolenaar emphasised strict limits to ensure separation from ByteDance.

The law prohibits any cooperation on TikTok’s key recommendation algorithm and bars operational links between ByteDance and the new US-based entity. These measures aim to safeguard national security and prevent undue foreign influence.

Moolenaar confirmed he will call the leadership of the new TikTok entity to testify before Congress next year, signalling close scrutiny of the platform’s transition.

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Bot Networks Are Helping Drag Consumer Brands Into the Culture Wars, reports WSJ

General

Sep 26, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Bot networks, once mainly used by fraudsters and states, are now targeting brands. Generative AI has made such campaigns easier to run and harder to detect, amplifying divisive issues and damaging corporate reputations.

Recent attacks have focused on Amazon, McDonald’s, Boeing and Target, often using AI-powered bots to mimic grassroots outrage. Cracker Barrel dropped a new logo after nearly half of boycott posts were linked to bots, showing their power to distort perception.

Detection firms like PeakMetrics and Cyabra help identify bot activity, but stopping attacks remains difficult. Experts warn brands to recognise coordinated campaigns rather than react impulsively.

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Apple Builds a ChatGPT-Like App to Help Test the Revamped Siri, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 26, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple has developed an internal ChatGPT-style app, code-named Veritas, to test a major Siri overhaul due in 2025. The tool allows staff to trial new AI-powered features, such as searching personal data and performing in-app actions, while gathering feedback on usability.

The new Siri, powered by large language models, is expected to launch as early as March after previous delays. Apple aims for it to support extended conversations and smarter device navigation, strengthening its AI credentials.

Alongside Siri’s redesign, Apple is exploring AI-powered smart home devices and partnerships with firms like Google and Anthropic to boost its AI offering.

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NBC launches attack ads against YouTube over streaming negotiations, reports FT

General

Sep 26, 2025

NBCUniversal has launched attack ads against YouTube TV, warning subscribers they could lose access to key programmes including Sunday Night Football, the Premier League and The Real Housewives if no pricing deal is reached by Tuesday.

NBC accuses YouTube TV of undervaluing its Peacock service and withholding subscriber data, while YouTube says NBC is demanding higher payments than what it charges consumers directly. It pledged $10 credits for prolonged blackouts.

NBC claims YouTube is trying to dominate media and weaken rivals. YouTube TV, with nearly 10 million subscribers, has grown rapidly, securing rights such as the NFL’s Sunday Ticket.

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FTC Locks In Omnicom-IPG Deal With Stricter Ad Rules, reports AdWeek

M&A

Sep 26, 2025

The FTC has finalised its consent order on Omnicom’s $13.5 billion acquisition of Interpublic Group, barring politically motivated ad boycotts unless explicitly directed by clients. The revised order adds a compliance monitor and limits the scope to U.S. operations.

The commission noted that ad holding companies have previously coordinated ideology-based blocklists, reducing ad revenue for targeted publishers. The ruling requires decisions on exclusions to rest with advertisers, not agencies.

The deal has passed U.K. review but still awaits EU clearance. Regulators continue to scrutinise the sector’s market power and its influence over online advertising flows.

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Trump Clears Way for American-Owned TikTok Valued at $14 Billion, reports The New York Times

General

Sep 26, 2025

President Trump signed an executive order Thursday clearing the path for a US-owned TikTok valued at $14 billion, significantly below ByteDance's $300 billion valuation. The deal involves Oracle, Silver Lake, and surprisingly, Emirati investment firm MGX taking roughly 45% ownership, with other investors including Michael Dell and Rupert Murdoch.

The arrangement allows ByteDance to license its algorithm to the new American company whilst reducing Chinese ownership below 20% to satisfy federal law requirements. Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping approved the framework, though the licensing arrangement raises concerns about continued Chinese influence.

Critics question whether monitoring the algorithm equals controlling it, with Republican lawmakers expressing concerns about potential Chinese "control or influence." The deal must be finalised by mid-January, with Oracle responsible for protecting US user data in the new structure.

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Meta to launch ad-free Facebook and Instagram subscriptions in UK, reports Reuters

General

Sep 26, 2025

Meta will launch ad-free subscriptions for Facebook and Instagram in the UK within coming weeks, priced at £2.99 monthly on web and £3.99 on mobile platforms. The move follows similar EU offerings designed to comply with data privacy regulations and address concerns from the UK's data protection authority.

Users can choose between paying monthly fees or continuing free access with targeted advertising. The ad-free tier prevents data collection for advertising purposes whilst allowing Meta to maintain its free, ad-supported model for other users who prefer it.

The announcement reflects broader industry pressure over personal data usage and targeted advertising, with Apple and Google also making privacy-related changes. Meta's advertising business generated approximately 98% of its $164.5 billion revenue last year, making the balance between privacy compliance and ad sales crucial to its growth strategy.

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DOJ v. Google: How Judge Brinkema Seems To Be Thinking After Week One, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 26, 2025

After week one of the DOJ's antitrust remedies trial against Google, Judge Leonie Brinkema appears increasingly sceptical about the government's divestiture proposal. She's expressed concerns about potential harm to small publishers who use Google's ad server for free and speculated that Google might deliberately abandon open web advertising in retaliation.

Google's Tim Craycroft revealed internal evaluations showing divestiture is feasible but would take years. However, DOJ industry witnesses have been unhelpful, with some suggesting Google's ad exchange is worthless or should be shut down, whilst others described "excruciating pain" from divestiture.

Technical terminology confusion benefits Google's position, particularly around terms like "Final Auction Logic" and "open web display advertising" that were crafted specifically for this case. Judge Brinkema seems concerned about the DOJ's 14-year oversight timeline compared to Google's one-year remedy proposal, suggesting she may favour less disruptive solutions.

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Best Buy will allow advertisers to take over the in-store shopping experience, reports Digiday

General

Sep 26, 2025

Best Buy will launch "takeover packages" in 2025, allowing advertisers to control most of a store's footprint for 30-day periods. Brands can appear on windows, entrances, physical displays, TV walls, PC screens, interactive displays, and checkout counters across Best Buy's thousands of locations.

The programme targets both endemic brands sold in-store and non-endemic advertisers like movie studios, restaurants, automotive brands, and video games. Best Buy's retail media network completed 3,000 campaigns last year and expects to double that figure in 2025, supported by its in-house creative agency and Best Buy Studios facility.

Chief Marketing Officer Jennie Weber describes store takeovers as top-of-funnel brand awareness assets that integrate into customer journeys. The company will track various metrics including unit sales, ticket sales, or app downloads depending on advertiser goals, with 30-40% of online sales picked up in-store providing additional measurement opportunities.

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Apple Asks EU to Repeal Bloc’s Landmark Digital Markets Act, reports WSJ

General

Sep 25, 2025

Apple has urged the EU to repeal or scale back the Digital Markets Act, claiming it harms competitiveness, delays product launches, and exposes users to privacy risks. It suggested enforcement should be handled by an independent body free from political influence.

The European Commission dismissed Apple’s stance, saying it remains committed to enforcing the DMA, which obliges Apple to open iPhones to rival app stores and offer browser choice. Apple has already been fined €500 million for non-compliance.

The debate reflects wider US-EU tensions, with President Trump accusing Brussels of targeting American firms through antitrust fines and strict digital rules.

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Google Asks Supreme Court to Pause Overhaul of Its App Store, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 25, 2025

Google has asked the US Supreme Court to pause a lower court ruling requiring changes to its Play Store policies after losing an antitrust case brought by Epic Games. The order, due to take effect on 22 October, would allow rival app stores and billing systems.

Google argued the decision could cause “irreparable harm” to Android’s ecosystem, citing risks to safety and innovation. Epic welcomed the ruling, saying it would allow wider distribution of its own store.

The dispute follows a jury verdict that Google engaged in anticompetitive conduct, amid mounting global regulatory scrutiny of its business practices.

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Meta Set to Face EU Finding It Failed to Police Illegal Posts, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 25, 2025

Responsible Media

The EU is preparing to charge Meta for failing to adequately police illegal content on Facebook and Instagram, alleging weak systems for users to flag harmful posts. If confirmed, Meta could face fines of up to 6% of its global revenue.

The move escalates a probe launched in April 2024 under the Digital Services Act, which demands strict safeguards from major platforms. Meta has denied breaching the rules and is in talks with regulators.

Other tech firms, including X, TikTok, Temu and AliExpress, also face investigations, while the law has heightened tensions between the EU and the US.

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Meta in talks to use Google's Gemini to improve ad business, the Information reports, reports Reuters

General

Sep 25, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is in early talks with Google Cloud about potentially using its Gemini AI models to enhance ad targeting, according to The Information. The discussions may not lead to a deal, but staff have suggested fine-tuning Gemini and Gemma models with Meta’s ad data.

The move highlights Meta’s struggles to scale its own AI efforts despite major investment in talent and infrastructure. It also underscores the unusual prospect of relying on a direct advertising rival’s technology.

Both Meta and Google recently reported that AI investment is driving growth in their core ad businesses, intensifying competition in digital advertising.

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Google likely to be hit with first EU antitrust fine under new EU law, sources say, reports Reuters

General

Sep 25, 2025

The EU is preparing to fine Google under its new Digital Markets Act, with a decision expected in the coming months. The case centres on accusations that Google favoured its own vertical search services, such as Shopping and Flights, over rivals.

This follows a €2.95 billion antitrust fine earlier in September for favouring its ad exchange, AdX. The DMA allows penalties of up to 10% of global revenue for violations.

Google has offered remedies but failed to satisfy critics. Despite US trade tensions and Trump’s objections, Brussels insists it will not ease scrutiny of American tech giants.

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Amazon to pay $2.5 billion to settle U.S. lawsuit that it tricked people into Prime, reports NPR

General

Sep 25, 2025

Millions of Amazon Prime users from mid-2019 to mid-2025 will automatically receive refunds of up to $51, while others may claim reimbursements based on how many Prime benefits they used. Amazon will also adjust how it displays subscription options.

The settlement follows an FTC lawsuit accusing Amazon of deceptive designs to trap users in auto-renewing Prime subscriptions and of complicating cancellations. Amazon denied wrongdoing, saying its processes were simple and compliant.

Key evidence came from a former Amazon researcher, who flagged misleading designs. Amazon still faces a larger federal monopoly case, set for trial in early 2027.

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ChatGPT is now 20% of Walmart’s referral traffic - while Amazon wards off AI shopping agents, reports Digiday

General

Sep 25, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

ChatGPT is rapidly becoming a major driver of referral traffic to retailers like Walmart, Target, Etsy and eBay, though Amazon has opted out by blocking AI crawlers. Walmart now gets 20% of referral clicks from ChatGPT, while Etsy and Target also see notable gains.

Although still a small share of overall visits, the shift highlights how AI tools are reshaping shopping behaviour and challenging Google’s dominance. Amazon, meanwhile, is pushing its own chatbot, Rufus, to protect its $56 billion ad business.

Retailers benefit from free clicks today, but experts expect ChatGPT to monetise traffic through affiliate fees, ads or checkout integration.

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Meta launches Vibes, a short-form video feed of AI slop, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 25, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has launched “Vibes,” a new feed in its Meta AI app and on meta.ai, showcasing short-form AI-generated videos. Users can create clips from scratch, remix existing ones, and share them across Meta platforms, with content powered by partners like Midjourney and Black Forest Labs.

The move has been met with criticism, as users deride the feed as “AI slop” at a time when platforms like YouTube are trying to limit low-value AI content. Comments on Mark Zuckerberg’s announcement post showed strong scepticism and lack of enthusiasm.

The rollout follows Meta’s restructuring of its AI division into Meta Superintelligence Labs.

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Google’s ad tech breakup is now a political hot potato and Europe’s holding it first, reports Digiday

General

Sep 25, 2025

Europe may act first on breaking up Google's advertising technology business, potentially defining the baseline for global intervention. The European Commission has given Google until early November to propose remedies for its €2.95 billion antitrust case, whilst the US Department of Justice's timeline remains longer with weeks or months until a ruling.

President Trump has threatened trade tariffs against the EU to "nullify the unfair penalties," creating political pressure despite his administration simultaneously pursuing its own Google breakup case through the DOJ. This presents Europe with a dilemma between economic retaliation risks and undermining regulatory authority.

The European Commission closely mirrors DOJ arguments about Google's structural control over buy-side, sell-side, and auction layers creating unfair competition. Industry experts believe regulatory action is necessary, though cynicism remains about whether meaningful market benefits will materialise given the time required for resolution.

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Trump signs order allowing TikTok deal to proceed, reports Axios

General

Sep 25, 2025

President Trump signed an executive order Thursday allowing TikTok's US sale to proceed, bringing the transaction closer to completion than ever before. Vice President Vance indicated the deal would value the company at approximately $14 billion, similar to Snapchat owner Snap Inc., though precise valuation details remain unclear.

The ownership structure involves Americans holding six of seven board seats, with a new algorithm based on TikTok's existing system leased from ByteDance but under US control. CNBC reported primary investors would include Oracle, private equity firm Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi's government investment vehicle MGX.

Trump mentioned expecting Rupert Murdoch and Michael Dell to join the investor group. The deal follows Trump's announcement last week of an agreement with China for TikTok's US operations sale, though specific ownership structure details remain undisclosed as negotiations continue.

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The Trade Desk promises neutrality with TV OS, reports The Media Leader

General

Sep 24, 2025

The Trade Desk will launch Ventura TV OS later this year, pledging neutrality by not owning content services or holding inventory. It promises better revenue-sharing with TV manufacturers and publishers, aiming to avoid conflicts of interest.

Ventura will provide universal search and recommendations powered by shared metadata, helping viewers navigate streaming services. This approach also gives advertisers stronger targeting signals, while offering OEMs higher ad revenue shares and control over customer relationships.

Backed by media owners including Disney, Paramount and Tubi, Ventura positions itself as a shake-up to unsustainable CTV models, streamlining supply chains and maximising advertiser spend efficiency.

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OpenAI Looks to Build In-House Ad Infrastructure, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 24, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI is expanding its advertising ambitions, creating a new ChatGPT Growth team and hiring a Growth Paid Marketing Platform Engineer. The role will build in-house tools for ad integration, campaign management, real-time attribution, and spend optimisation.

The move signals OpenAI’s intent to scale marketing internally, rather than rely on agencies. Few companies develop their own ad-buying systems, but success here could later open the door to ChatGPT becoming a platform for brands to run campaigns directly.

This comes as OpenAI ramps up paid ads, names Omnicom’s PHD as global media AOR, and positions itself for broader revenue growth.

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Private equity firm Novacap to buy Integral Ad Science for $1.9 billion, reports Reuters

General

Sep 24, 2025

Private equity firm Novacap will acquire digital advertising verification company Integral Ad Science for approximately $1.9 billion. The deal values IAS shares at $10.30 each in cash, representing a 22% premium to the previous closing price, with shares trading 20% higher following the announcement.

Novacap, which manages over $10 billion in assets, will acquire all outstanding IAS shares. The transaction is expected to close before year-end, after which IAS will become a privately held company. IAS provides ad verification, fraud detection, and optimisation services to brands and agencies.

The acquisition joins recent private equity buyouts of technology companies as firms bet on artificial intelligence driving growth. Thoma Bravo has similarly acquired customer engagement platform Verint Systems and HR software company Dayforce in recent months, reflecting broader private equity interest in the sector.

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DOJ v. Google: Judge Brinkema Calls For Less Ad Tech, Window Dressing, In The AdX And DFP Divestiture Debate, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 24, 2025

During day two of the DOJ's antitrust remedies phase against Google, Judge Leonie Brinkema grew impatient with repetitive ad tech debates, calling much testimony "window dressing" and demanding to hear from Google employees about actual divestiture requirements for AdX and publisher ad server products.

Google's defence argues that open web display advertising is declining and no company could feasibly acquire AdX or DFP. The company highlighted that DFP processes eight million ad requests per second and is offered free to publishers, questioning whether acquirers could maintain these standards.

The DOJ contends Google must sell its publisher ad tech because any connection between buy-side and sell-side products enables non-transparent supply chains favouring Google. Industry experts testified that whilst divestiture would cause initial disruption, other market participants would fill the void, potentially benefiting competition and publisher trust.

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Microsoft looks to build AI marketplace for publishers, reports Axios

General

Sep 23, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft is developing a Publisher Content Marketplace to compensate publishers for AI-generated content, making it the first major tech company to build such a platform. The pilot programme will initially partner with select US publishers and use Microsoft's Copilot assistant as the first AI buyer.

The marketplace aims to pay publishers based on content quality and usage, contrasting with current upfront licensing deals. Microsoft presented the concept at its Monaco Partner Summit, emphasising "You deserve to be paid on the quality of your IP," distinguishing itself from competitors like Google.

The media industry desperately needs Big Tech participation for viable marketplaces, as smaller startups lack sufficient inventory. Microsoft's move could pressure Google to act, though Copilot's traffic remains lower than ChatGPT. The initiative suggests Microsoft is deepening publisher relationships whilst restructuring its OpenAI partnership.

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Sports media’s rising tide lifts niche ad tech firms, reports Digiday

General

Sep 23, 2025

Sports Marketing

Sports marketing spend is rising, driving demand for tools that measure sponsorship impact. Specialist firms like Genius Sports, Greenfly, Hudl, and WeHave are capitalising by offering data, analytics, and automation to brands and rights-holders. PwC forecasts the sponsorship market will surpass $160 billion by 2030.

Genius Sports has expanded beyond betting to brand partnerships, growing ad revenues and acquiring Sports Innovation Lab. Greenfly and Hudl help distribute sports content and connect brands with engaged audiences, while WeHave and ReloMetrics focus on sponsorship value measurement.

Marketers now expect accountability. Without proof of returns, clubs and leagues risk losing sponsors.

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EU targets Apple, Google and Microsoft over online financial scams, reports FT

General

Sep 23, 2025

Responsible Media

The EU will scrutinise Apple, Google, Microsoft and Booking Holdings over how they police financial fraud online, using new powers under the Digital Services Act. Regulators will request information on fake apps, search results and accommodation listings.

Losses from scams exceed €4bn annually, with AI making detection harder. Apple defended its anti-fraud efforts, while Google, Microsoft and Booking.com pledged to cooperate. Potential penalties include fines of up to 6% of annual turnover.

The move follows probes into Meta, Temu and Shein, as Brussels prioritises tackling scams alongside earlier DSA focuses on minors’ safety, online shopping and election integrity.

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Disney says its committed to linear TV amid declines in ad revenue at A+E, reports Marketing Brew

General

Sep 23, 2025

Disney and Hearst are considering selling A+E Global Media, which operates A&E, History and Lifetime. However, declining affiliate and advertising revenue has reduced Disney’s income from the venture by $90 million in nine months.

The potential sale comes as rivals like Warner Bros. Discovery and NBCUniversal spin off cable units, while Disney insists on keeping linear and streaming together. CEO Bob Iger argues this pairing strengthens Disney’s market position.

Sports content remains a key factor, with ESPN stressing its value in traditional TV. Analysts note financial structures differ across media companies, influencing whether cable assets are retained or sold.

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Disney is raising the price of Disney+, Hulu subscriptions next month, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 23, 2025

Disney is raising prices for Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions starting 21 October. Disney+ with ads will increase by $2 to $11.99 monthly, whilst the premium ad-free plan rises by $3 to $18.99 monthly. The annual premium plan increases by $30 to $189.99.

Hulu with ads jumps from $9.99 to $11.99 monthly, though the premium ad-free version remains at $18.99. ESPN Select increases from $11.99 to $12.99 monthly. Bundle prices also rise, with Disney+ and Hulu with ads increasing by $2 to $12.99.

The timing follows mass Disney+ cancellations last week over Disney's decision to temporarily remove Jimmy Kimmel from its platform. Disney+ launched in 2019 at $6.99 monthly and has steadily increased prices, with the last hike in October 2024 raising the ad-free plan from $13.99 to $15.99.

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Amazon trial begins on FTC claims it duped Prime subscribers, reports Reuters

General

Sep 23, 2025

The FTC is suing Amazon in a Seattle trial starting Tuesday, alleging the company duped tens of millions into Prime subscriptions without consent and made cancellation overly complex. The case could result in hundreds of millions in damages plus fines up to $53,000 per violation.

The FTC claims Amazon failed to clearly disclose that selecting "FREE Same-Day Delivery" would enroll customers in Prime's $14.99 monthly subscription. Between 2017-2022, Amazon executives allegedly rejected changes that would make terms clearer to prevent declining sign-ups, only adopting improvements in 2022 under FTC investigation.

Amazon denies wrongdoing, stating Prime terms are clearly disclosed with multiple cancellation options. The FTC estimates 40 million shoppers were signed up without consent, with tens of millions abandoning the cancellation process midway. A nine-person jury will decide if Amazon violated consumer protection law.

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Nvidia to Invest $100 Billion in OpenAI for Data Centers, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 22, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Nvidia will invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI to support building new data centres and AI infrastructure. The investment aims to help OpenAI construct facilities with 10 gigawatts of power capacity using Nvidia's advanced AI chips for training and deploying OpenAI's models.

Nvidia will receive equity in OpenAI, with the investment provided in stages starting with $10 billion when the first gigawatt of computing power is deployed. The companies signed a letter of intent for this strategic partnership, emphasising compute infrastructure as fundamental to the future economy.

OpenAI's ChatGPT serves roughly 700 million weekly users and requires intensive computing power. The company has previously faced computing constraints meeting customer demand, particularly during new product launches. CEO Sam Altman announced new "compute-intensive" offerings launching soon. Nvidia shares rose 4% following the announcement.

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Business Insider sues Google over alleged monopolisation of digital ad market, reports Marketing Interactive

General

Sep 22, 2025

Business Insider has sued Google, alleging anti-competitive practices that unfairly monopolise digital advertising. The complaint claims Google ties its ad server, DoubleClick for Publishers, with its exchange, AdX, forcing publishers to rely on its system to reach advertisers.

The lawsuit highlights auction practices such as ‘Last Look’ and ‘Dynamic Allocation’, which allegedly give Google insider advantages. Business Insider argues this suppresses competition and publisher revenue by locking in advertisers dependent on Google Ads.

Google dismissed the claims as meritless. The case follows PubMatic’s separate lawsuit and an April 2025 ruling finding Google abused monopoly power in ad tech.

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Netflix signs co-marketing deal with AB InBev to promote TV shows and beer, reports Reuters

General

Sep 22, 2025

Netflix and Anheuser-Busch InBev have signed a global co-marketing partnership to promote Netflix's most-watched shows alongside AB InBev's beer brands including Budweiser, Stella Artois, and Corona. The deal includes campaigns tied to shows like UK drama "The Gentlemen" and South Korea's "Culinary Class Wars."

The partnership features limited-edition packaging, digital promotions, and advertising during Netflix's live programming such as NFL Christmas Day broadcasts. AB InBev will also collaborate on marquee events including the 2027 Women's World Cup soccer tournament, capitalising on Netflix's expansion into live sports.

Netflix's advertising business now reaches over 94 million users globally, roughly two years after launch. The ad tier is increasingly viewed as a potential growth engine, with live sports providing new opportunities to attract sponsorship from global brands seeking large viewership audiences.

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Google seeks to avoid ad tech breakup as antitrust trial begins, reports Reuters

General

Sep 22, 2025

Google faces an antitrust trial beginning Monday in Alexandria, Virginia, as the US Department of Justice seeks to force the sale of its ad exchange AdX. The government wants Google to divest AdX, where publishers pay 20% fees for ad auctions, and make its auction mechanism open source.

US District Judge Leonie Brinkema previously ruled Google holds unlawful monopolies in web advertising technology. The trial follows Google's recent victory avoiding a forced Chrome browser sale in a separate case. Google argues the DOJ's proposal is technically unworkable and would create uncertainty.

Instead of selling AdX, Google proposes policy changes to support competing platforms, though the DOJ considers this inadequate. The case is part of broader US action against Big Tech, with pending cases against Meta, Amazon, and Apple. If competition isn't restored within four years, Google may also be required to sell its publisher ad server.

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Meta Courts Ad Agencies Ahead of Zuckerberg's AI-Driven Vision, reports Adweek

General

Sep 19, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta reassured advertising agencies at its New York Agency Summit, marking a shift from CEO Mark Zuckerberg's previous comments about AI potentially running entire ad processes. The company emphasised it was "doubling down" on its commitment to agencies, framing AI tools as "convenience boosters" rather than replacements.

One agency executive described the summit as a "total 180" from earlier concerns. Meta offered free training vouchers for Blueprint certification courses and highlighted existing AI-powered offerings like Instagram Creator Marketplace. The company has been hiring for agency-related roles, including global agency development leads.

Despite reassurances, Meta's algorithm increasingly favours "signal-rich" advertisers with robust first-party data through its Conversions API. With 97% of revenue from advertising, Meta's AI tools like Advantage+ still nudge advertisers toward automation whilst making agencies critical data providers for the platform's ecosystem.

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Trump and Xi Set to Finalize TikTok Deal, reports The New York Times

General

Sep 19, 2025

President Trump and China's President Xi Jinping are expected to speak Friday to finalise a TikTok deal that would separate the app from Chinese owner ByteDance, avoiding a US ban. Trump announced "We have a deal on TikTok. I've reached a deal with China" outside the White House on Tuesday.

TikTok has faced uncertainty since January when federal law required finding a non-Chinese owner or facing a ban over national security concerns. The deal involves spinning out American operations into a new company with US investors like Oracle to dilute Chinese ownership.

Trump extended the deadline for the fourth time this year until mid-December and revealed the US would receive a "tremendous fee" for arranging the deal. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent first announced the framework agreement in Madrid on Monday following negotiations with Chinese officials.

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Anthropic's Claude Makes First Big Ad Play to Take on AI Rivals, reports Adweek

General

Sep 18, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Anthropic has launched its first major brand campaign for Claude, called "Keep Thinking," positioning the AI chatbot as a tool for problem solvers tackling global challenges. The multimillion-dollar campaign, created by agency Mother, marks Anthropic's entry into paid advertising as it competes with rivals like OpenAI and Perplexity.

The campaign targets developers, researchers, and business owners, with Claude primarily used for work-related tasks including coding, research, and education. Anthropic reports over 300,000 business customers, up from fewer than 1,000 two years ago, as the $183 billion company seeks differentiation in the competitive AI market.

Media placements include live sports broadcasts, Netflix, Hulu, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, podcasts, and influencer partnerships. The campaign features an optimistic tone, suggesting AI can address complex problems from medical diagnoses to education gaps.

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Shareholder Vote Secures Jeff Green’s 48% Control of The Trade Desk, reports Adweek

General

Sep 18, 2025

The Trade Desk shareholders voted to extend CEO Jeff Green's control by pushing back a deadline that would have diluted his voting power by 10 years. Nearly 95% of shares voted in favour of maintaining the dual-class stock structure, allowing Green to retain nearly 48% voting control.

Green holds over 42 million Class B shares carrying 10 votes each, plus nearly 5 million Class A shares with single votes. The automatic conversion would have transformed all Class B shares into Class A shares, substantially reducing his influence over company decisions.

The vote occurred despite The Trade Desk's stock falling approximately 63% year-to-date amid competition from Amazon, platform changes, analyst downgrades, and the loss of Walmart's exclusive partnership deal, though the company maintained high revenue growth in early 2025.

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Google adds Gemini to Chrome browser after avoiding antitrust breakup, reports Reuters

General

Sep 18, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is integrating Gemini AI into its Chrome browser for US users starting Thursday, weeks after avoiding a forced breakup in an antitrust case. The integration will initially be available to Mac and Windows desktop users with English language settings, expanding to iOS Chrome and mobile phones soon.

A federal judge spared Google from selling Chrome but ordered it to share data with rivals to increase search competition. The Gemini integration includes deeper connections with Google apps like Calendar, YouTube, and Maps, plus future agentic capabilities for multi-step tasks and webpage summarisation.

The move positions Google to compete against agentic browsers like Perplexity's Comet, which made a $34.5 billion unsolicited offer for Chrome in August. Google can continue paying partners like Apple to feature its search engine whilst retaining control of Chrome and Android.

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Inside the Dueling Lawsuits Threatening to Unravel Group Black, reports Adweek

General

Sep 17, 2025

Group Black, a Black media collective founded in June 2021, is facing internal legal battles that threaten its existence. The company was launched by three prominent Black media executives - Richelieu Dennis, Bonin Bough, and Travis Montaque - with an ambitious goal to distribute $500 million in advertising commitments to Black-owned publishers.

Initially successful, Group Black secured a $75 million investment from GroupM and multimillion-dollar deals with companies like Ziff Davis and NBCUniversal. The venture gained significant press coverage and corporate backing during the heightened social activism period following the pandemic.

However, by 2024 the company had grown quiet despite ostensibly raising hundreds of millions for Black media outlets. Reports emerged of late payments to publishers, and now the founders are embroiled in lawsuits against one another, potentially unraveling the collective that once promised to transform Black media funding.

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YouTube, new leader of US media industry, bets on AI as key for creating content, reports Reuters

General

Sep 17, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

YouTube has become the leading US media platform with 2.7 billion users and is expected to surpass Disney's media revenue this year. The company captured 13.4% of US viewership versus Disney's 9.4%, with analysts predicting YouTube's revenue will exceed Disney's nearly $60 billion from last year.

At its 20th anniversary Made on YouTube event, the platform showcased over 30 new AI-powered tools for content creators, tripling last year's feature releases. These include automatic shopping link embedding, instant video editing, AI-generated podcast videos, and speech-to-song generators to streamline production processes.

CEO Neal Mohan emphasised that AI tools won't replace creators but will make YouTube video production a "viable, respectable career path." The company has paid creators over $100 billion in four years, with many reinvesting in professional production facilities resembling Hollywood studios.

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Italy enacts AI law covering privacy, oversight and child access, reports Reuters

General

Sep 17, 2025

Advertising To Children

Italy has become the first EU country to enact comprehensive AI legislation aligned with the EU's AI Act. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government established human-centric, transparent AI principles whilst emphasising innovation, cybersecurity, and privacy protections across healthcare, work, public administration, justice, education, and sport sectors.

The law requires parental consent for under-14s accessing AI and introduces criminal penalties for unlawful AI-generated content like deepfakes, punishable by one to five years imprisonment. New copyright protections cover AI-assisted works resulting from intellectual effort, whilst allowing AI text mining for non-copyrighted content.

Italy designated the Agency for Digital Italy and National Cybersecurity Agency as national AI authorities, authorising up to 1 billion euros from state venture capital for AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, and telecoms investments in small-to-medium and large enterprises.

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Disney, Universal, Warner Bros Discovery sue China's MiniMax for copyright infringement, reports Reuters

General

Sep 16, 2025

Disney, Universal, and Warner Bros Discovery have jointly sued Chinese AI company MiniMax, alleging its Hailuo AI service was built using stolen intellectual property from the Hollywood studios. The lawsuit claims MiniMax "audaciously" used famous copyrighted characters to market Hailuo as a "Hollywood studio in your pocket."

Hailuo can generate downloadable images and videos of characters including Darth Vader, Minions, and Wonder Woman through simple text prompts. The studios allege MiniMax ignored requests to implement reasonable measures preventing copyright infringement, actively encouraging violations of US copyright law.

The case joins similar lawsuits against Midjourney and part of broader litigation by copyright owners against AI companies including OpenAI and Microsoft. MiniMax, targeting a $4 billion valuation for public listing, serves over 157 million users across 200 countries.

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Beijing says TikTok’s US app will use Chinese algorithm, reports Financial Times

General

Sep 16, 2025

Beijing has confirmed that TikTok's US spin-off will use ByteDance's Chinese algorithm under a licensing arrangement, despite American security concerns about potential manipulation for propaganda purposes. Wang Jingtao, deputy head of China's cyber security regulator, said officials agreed on a framework including "licensing the algorithm and other intellectual property rights."

The algorithm remains central to geopolitical tensions, as US officials have insisted it must be fully severed from ByteDance to prevent Chinese influence over American users' content. However, an Asia-based ByteDance investor indicated the new US entity would use at least part of the Chinese algorithm but train it domestically.

American and Chinese officials reached this framework agreement after Madrid talks, allowing Trump's administration to keep TikTok operational despite US divestment laws. The deal preserves some "Chinese characteristics" whilst ensuring American investor control of the spun-off application.

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Amazon Expands Its Programmatic Integration With SiriusXM, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 16, 2025

Amazon DSP has expanded its integration with SiriusXM, enabling enhanced programmatic capabilities including guaranteed deals and private marketplaces. The partnership allows advertisers to incorporate SiriusXM's streaming audio inventory, including Pandora, into larger omnichannel campaigns rather than audio-specific campaigns.

SiriusXM is now uploading first-party data to Amazon's publisher cloud suite, improving attribution between streaming listeners and Amazon sales. The integration extends Amazon's AI-based Performance Plus product to SiriusXM's audio supply, adding what Amazon calls a "missing component" to omnichannel campaigns.

For SiriusXM, the partnership addresses the disparity between audio's 25% share of media consumption versus single-digit percentage of DSP budgets. The company aims to prove audio's value as an upper-funnel channel driving sales through Amazon's attribution framework.

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Magnite Becomes Third SSP in Two Months to Sue Google Over Antitrust Allegations, reports Adweek

General

Sep 16, 2025

Magnite, the largest independent sell-side platform, has filed a federal lawsuit against Google alleging unlawful monopolisation of ad exchange and publisher ad server markets. The 81-page complaint claims Google forced advertisers using Google Ads to buy display advertisements via its own exchange, AdX.

Magnite alleges Google manipulated ad auctions with unfair pricing rules and dynamic revenue-sharing adjustments favouring itself. The company cites Project Poirot, a 2017 scheme that allegedly reduced bids from Google's Display & Video 360 for impressions routed through rival exchanges.

Magnite becomes the third major SSP to sue Google within two months, following OpenX and PubMatic. The company seeks monetary damages and injunctive relief, claiming it has lost profits, market share, and was forced to cut over 100 jobs.

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Third-Party Sellers Lose Their Party Invites, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 15, 2025

The Federal Trade Commission is investigating Google and Amazon over transparency in their search advertising businesses, examining whether they misled advertisers about pricing and placements. Google's probe may stem from DOJ antitrust revelations showing the company adjusted search rates to meet quarterly targets.

Amazon faces scrutiny whilst managing fallout from earlier FTC suits, where the commission found Amazon deliberately skewed search results to favour sponsored ads. Meanwhile, both Amazon and Walmart are restricting third-party sellers, requiring authorization proof for electronics and beauty products respectively.

Perplexity's former advertising chief Taz Patel departed after nine months, with agencies reporting difficulty accessing the company's advertising team. Multiple executives describe failed attempts to arrange meetings over four-month periods, raising questions about Perplexity's advertising ambitions.

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Publishers shift AI ire to Google, reports Axios

General

Sep 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Publishers are increasingly targeting Google over AI practices, with Rolling Stone owner Penske Media suing the tech giant for allegedly using journalism without consent to power AI summaries whilst reducing website traffic. This follows Google's recent antitrust victory, which lessened pressure to strike publisher deals.

Media executives including People Inc.'s Neil Vogel called Google an "intentional bad actor," claiming the company exploits its dominant market position to avoid licensing negotiations. Publishers report that Google Analytics data contradicts the company's claims about sending higher-quality traffic through AI Overviews.

Unlike competitors, Google has signed few AI partnerships with publishers, including deals with Associated Press and Reddit worth approximately $60 million annually. Publishers worry about repeating social media platform dependency that ultimately left them disadvantaged despite initial revenue promises.

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A U.S.-China Deal to Avert a TikTok Ban May be Close, reports The New York Times

General

Sep 15, 2025

The United States and China have reached a framework agreement to resolve TikTok's ownership concerns, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announcing the deal following talks in Madrid. President Trump will speak with China's President Xi Jinping on Friday to complete the agreement.

The deal comes days before Wednesday's deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a US ban. Trump has extended this deadline multiple times whilst his administration negotiates, testing executive power boundaries after a federal law requiring the sale was upheld by the Supreme Court.

Specific terms remain undisclosed, with Bessent only stating that "commercial terms have been agreed upon" between private parties. The agreement would end years of disputes over national security concerns regarding potential Chinese government access to American user data.

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Alphabet enters $3 trillion market cap club as Big Tech's AI momentum builds, reports Reuters

General

Sep 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Alphabet reached a $3 trillion market capitalisation for the first time, joining Apple and Microsoft in the exclusive club. The Google parent's shares climbed 3.8%, hitting record highs amid renewed AI optimism and favourable antitrust rulings.

Alphabet leads the "Magnificent Seven" stocks with 32% year-to-date gains, significantly outpacing the S&P 500's 12.5% rise. A recent court ruling allowed the company to retain control of Chrome and Android, removing major investor concerns about potential divestiture.

The company's cloud computing unit delivered nearly 32% revenue growth in Q2, with investments in AI chips and the Gemini model paying off as diversification beyond search accelerates.

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Rolling Stone, Billboard owner Penske sues Google over AI overviews, reports Reuters

General

Sep 13, 2025

Penske Media, owner of Rolling Stone, Billboard and Variety, has sued Google over AI Overviews, becoming the first major US publisher to challenge the feature in court. The lawsuit alleges Google uses journalism without consent and reduces website traffic.

Penske claims Google ties search visibility to allowing content use in AI summaries, exploiting its 90% search market dominance. The company reports affiliate revenue has fallen over a third from peak levels as AI Overviews now appear in 20% of searches linking to its sites.

Google defended the feature, stating AI Overviews improve user experience and create traffic opportunities for diverse websites. The case highlights tensions between publishers seeking licensing deals and Google's market power enabling different practices than competitors like OpenAI.

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US FTC probes Google, Amazon over search advertising practices, source says, reports Reuters

General

Sep 12, 2025

The US Federal Trade Commission is investigating whether Amazon and Google misled advertisers about search advertising practices, focusing on disclosure of terms and pricing. The FTC's consumer protection unit is examining whether companies properly disclosed advertising auction details.

The investigation centres on Amazon's reserve pricing disclosure for search ads and Google's internal pricing processes, particularly whether Google increased ad costs without proper advertiser notification. Reserve pricing refers to minimum prices advertisers must accept before purchasing ads.

Both companies face separate federal trials starting 22 September. The FTC is suing Amazon over allegedly enrolling users in Prime without consent, whilst the Department of Justice seeks to force Google to sell advertising technology tools following illegal monopoly findings.

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Nielsen and Warner Bros. Discovery Sign Multi-Year Deal, Reports Adweek

General

Sep 11, 2025

Nielsen and Warner Bros. Discovery announced a multi-year measurement deal covering all WBD platforms, expanding their partnership as WBD gains big data and advanced audience capabilities.

WBD will continue using Nielsen's big data + panel offering as currency for ad sales transactions, including upfronts, and will take on new services in 2026.

The deal leverages Nielsen's measurement capabilities across streaming, linear, live and on-demand content. WBD maintains its measurement-agnostic approach, meeting clients on preferred transaction currencies for maximum campaign effectiveness.

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Ads in premium media drive higher purchase intent and positive association, Reports the Media Leader

General

Sep 11, 2025

Research from The Trade Desk and PA Consulting shows advertising on "premium media" drives a 40% uplift in purchase intent. Premium media was defined by advertising quality, user experience, navigation ease, and content quality, with Disney+, Spotify, and The Economist qualifying as premium environments.

Premium media also generates 30% higher emotional and cognitive associations for advertisers. Consumers seeing ads in premium outlets are 1.5 times more likely to associate brands with quality and trustworthiness compared to less premium settings. Additionally, 85% are more likely to trust brands advertising in premium environments.

The study involved interviews with marketing experts, analysis of over 70 media brands, and surveys of 4,500 people across France, the UK, and US, followed by testing with 4,650 participants to explore premium versus non-premium media impact on advertiser perception.

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Paramount appoints Meta executive Dane Glasgow as chief product officer, reports Reuters

General

Sep 10, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Paramount has appointed Meta executive Dane Glasgow as chief product officer, overseeing product strategy across digital platforms and AI capabilities. Glasgow will report to CEO David Ellison and work with direct-to-consumer chair Cindy Holland.

Glasgow served as vice president of Product Management at Meta's Facebook since May 2021, previously holding executive roles at Microsoft, eBay, and Google. His appointment follows the $8.4 billion merger creating Paramount Skydance in August.

Since the merger, the company secured deals including a "Call of Duty" film adaptation with Microsoft-Activision Blizzard, global distribution with Legendary Entertainment, and $7.7 billion for exclusive seven-year UFC broadcast rights.

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Google Search Ads 360 Adds Criteo As First On-Site Retail Media Supply Partner, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 10, 2025

Criteo has partnered with Google Search Ads 360 as the first third-party vendor for on-site retail media supply integration. Google search advertisers can now place sponsored product listings across Criteo's network of over 200 retailers and ecommerce merchants.

The partnership allows Google's traditional search budgets to extend into retail media without advertisers necessarily realising the distinction. This opens previously unreachable budgets from brands like home appliance manufacturers who lack intuitive retail media budgets but want to target using retailer data.

Criteo plans to expand beyond SA360 into other Google marketing platforms, including DV360 and Google Merchant Center. The integration offers holistic measurement capabilities, enabling better targeting and attribution across the network for improved advertiser results.

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Europe Will Study Social Media Bans for Children Under 16, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 10, 2025

Advertising To Children

The European Commission announced it will examine potential social media restrictions for children under 16, following Australia's similar planned rules. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will establish an advisory panel by year-end to develop safer social media approaches for European children.

Von der Leyen compared the proposal to existing age restrictions on smoking, drinking, and adult content, stating it's time to consider similar measures for social media. Her remarks follow pressure from France, Spain, and Greece for mandatory EU-level age restrictions on social networks.

Governments worldwide are implementing stricter internet age checks to protect children from harmful content. Australia's policy begins 10 December, targeting platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Tech companies opposed these rules, though Australian trials found no significant technological barriers to age verification.

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Netflix turns to Amazon to make its ads easier to buy, reports Digiday

General

Sep 10, 2025

Netflix will make its ad inventory available through Amazon's programmatic buying platform, Amazon DSP, starting in Q4 across 12 markets including the US, UK, Germany and Japan. This completes Netflix's programmatic integration across all major buying platforms.

Amazon offers unique commerce data capabilities that other DSPs lack, providing advertisers with performance signals beyond reach. The deal continues Amazon's expansion across streaming advertising, following similar agreements with Disney and NBCU, positioning itself as central infrastructure for streaming ads.

Netflix has struggled with perception of overpriced inventory since launching ads in 2022, with CPMs starting at $65 and now below $30. Amazon offers DSP fee discounts for third-party inventory purchases, potentially making Netflix ads cheaper through Amazon than elsewhere.

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Meta adds new features to Community Notes fact checks, including alerts for corrected posts, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 10, 2025

Responsible Media

Meta is expanding its Community Notes fact-checking program with new features including notifications when users interact with posts later receiving corrections. Users can now request notes or rate their helpfulness, though these remain experimental features.

Since launching in the US, over 70,000 contributors have written 15,000 notes with only 6% published. The system mirrors X's approach, requiring consensus between users with opposing viewpoints before notes appear publicly.

Critics highlight limitations including slow response times and scale issues. The Center for Democracy and Technology noted over 70% of accurate election-related notes never reached users. Concerns exist about effectiveness on visual platforms like Instagram and within private Facebook Groups, with calls for transparency improvements.

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AI adoption accelerates among advertisers, reports The Media Leader

General

Sep 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

A new Isba survey shows advertiser use of generative AI has surged, with 41% now reporting active use cases, up from just 9% in April 2024. Alongside adoption, 58% of members already have AI policies in place, with a further 19% developing them.

Efficiency is the main driver for 62% of advertisers, though only 34% cite improved effectiveness as their priority. However, 46% have yet to begin AI training, exposing a skills gap.

Gen AI is also reshaping agency relationships, with 37% of advertisers updating contracts to include AI terms, reflecting its growing importance in marketing practice.

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Roblox’s growth comes with growing pains between creators and ad sales, reports Digiday

General

Sep 9, 2025

Influencer Marketing

Roblox’s annual Developers Conference in San Jose drew 2,000 attendees and highlighted both rapid growth and tensions with creators. The platform now counts 111.8 million daily users, with 60% over 13, and paid out $1 billion to creators last year.

Roblox is expanding its ad business, including programmatic ads, but some creators fear competition with their branded experiences. The company also unveiled “Moments,” a TikTok-style video feed, and announced stricter safety rules, including mandatory age verification for communication by 2025.

Creators welcomed an 8.5% increase in the developer exchange rate, boosting Robux-to-cash payouts.

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US ends international push to combat fake news from hostile states, reports FT

General

Sep 8, 2025

The US has ended cooperation with European allies on countering disinformation from Russia, China and Iran, notifying partners it is terminating agreements signed under the Biden administration. These pacts, part of the Global Engagement Center’s (GEC) work, aimed to expose foreign propaganda.

The Trump administration has dismantled the GEC and related initiatives, arguing they infringed on free speech and were ineffective. Supporters, however, warn the move weakens defences in the information war, especially as AI amplifies risks.

Around 22 countries had signed agreements, which sought a unified approach against state-backed manipulation and interference in democratic processes.

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Snap breaks into startup squads as ad revenue stalls, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 8, 2025

Snap is restructuring into small “startup squads” of 10–15 people as it struggles with slowing ad revenue and a decline in North American daily users, its most important market. Advertising revenue rose just 4% in Q2, while DAUs fell 2% to 98 million.

CEO Evan Spiegel highlighted Snapchat+ as a growth area, now generating $700 million annually from over 15 million subscribers, making direct revenue one of Snap’s strongest opportunities.

The company is also investing in AR glasses, which Spiegel sees as a smartphone replacement. Despite challenges, he insists Snap still offers “startup-style return potential.”

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Facebook ad costs jump 21% in 2025, but still beat Google, reports Search Engine Land

General

Sep 8, 2025

Facebook’s 2025 ad benchmarks reveal contrasting trends: traffic campaigns are cheaper and more efficient, while lead campaigns are costlier and less effective. Average cost per lead rose 21% to $27.66, though still far below Google’s $70.11.

Traffic ads saw higher click-through rates and lower costs, making them strong for awareness and site visits. By contrast, lead ads suffered falling conversion rates and rising CPL, particularly in sectors like dentistry.

Experts warn against chasing cheap clicks alone, urging marketers to prioritise lead quality, balance objectives, and carefully apply Meta’s AI-driven Advantage+ tools to sustain performance.

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YouTube’s first exclusive NFL broadcast attracts over 17M viewers, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 8, 2025

Sports Marketing

YouTube’s first exclusive global NFL broadcast set a platform record with 17.3 million concurrent viewers across 230 countries, as the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Los Angeles Chargers in São Paulo. In the U.S., 16.2 million tuned in, with 1.1 million overseas.

The event was part of YouTube’s expanded NFL partnership, designed to draw advertising revenue. Despite strong figures, viewership fell short of Netflix’s 2024 Christmas games, which averaged 24 million.

YouTube emphasised its creator-led experience, featuring MrBeast, Marques Brownlee and others, plus a Karol G halftime show. Audience reactions to creator commentary were divided.

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Meta suppressed children’s safety research, four whistleblowers claim, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 8, 2025

Advertising To Children

Four current and former Meta employees have given Congress documents alleging the company suppressed or diluted research into children’s safety after the 2021 Instagram revelations. They claim Meta changed policies to make findings less explicit, involving lawyers or using vague language.

One whistleblower said he was told to delete recordings of a child reporting sexual advances on Meta’s VR platform Horizon Worlds. Others allege staff were discouraged from investigating under-13 usage of Meta’s virtual apps.

Meta disputes the claims, saying it has approved nearly 180 youth safety studies since 2022. Separate lawsuits allege racism, safety lapses, and harassment.

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Murdochs Reach Deal to Resolve Succession Fight, reports NYT

General

Sep 8, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Lachlan Murdoch has secured long-term control of his family’s media empire after striking a $3.3 billion deal with his siblings. The agreement ensures Fox News, The Wall Street Journal and other outlets remain under conservative leadership following Rupert Murdoch’s death.

Prue, Liz and James Murdoch will each receive $1.1 billion for their shares, with the existing trust dissolved and a new one created including Lachlan and his younger sisters. Litigation between the siblings will end.

The deal closes a decades-long succession battle, cementing Lachlan’s leadership until at least 2050 while allowing his siblings to exit with vast payouts.

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Google’s Proposed Fix To Its Ad Tech Monopoly Is At Odds With The DOJ’s Remedies, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 8, 2025

Google has filed its proposed remedies to address its ad tech monopoly ruling, offering limited measures compared with the Department of Justice’s demands. Its proposals avoid divestiture, focusing only on open-web display ad markets, which are already in decline.

Google suggested publishers be allowed to use non-Google ad servers, access AdX bids, and export data, while winding down parts of its ad server and exchange businesses. It also pledged to drop practices like Unified Pricing Rules, but only within web display.

The DOJ, however, is pushing for divestitures, publisher compensation, stronger migration support and stricter oversight of Google’s wider ad business.

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PubMatic Is Suing Google For Monopolistic Behavior, The Second Such SSP Case, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 8, 2025

PubMatic has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Google, accusing it of monopolising the ad tech market and blocking fair competition. The case follows a similar suit by OpenX and seeks compensatory damages likely to reach billions. Both were filed in the Virginia court that previously found Google guilty of monopolistic practices.

PubMatic claims Google’s acquisitions, including DoubleClick and Admeld, undermined competition, raising advertiser costs and reducing publisher revenue. CEO Rajeev Goel said Google’s tactics diverted billions from independent platforms.

The lawsuit comes as the DOJ considers remedies, including a Google ad tech spin-off. Other SSPs may follow with litigation.

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Creators are leveraging CTV channels as added value for sponsorship deals, reports Digiday

General

Sep 8, 2025

Influencer Marketing

Creators are increasingly signing CTV licensing deals, using their presence on platforms like Samsung TV Plus and Tubi to secure higher sponsorship rates. By licensing back catalogues while keeping new content on social media, they expand reach and attract premium brands.

For creators, CTV offers more than revenue. It provides global distribution, audience growth and added marketing value. Partnerships, such as Mirage Digital with Team Liquid, highlight how CTV boosts brand awareness and sponsor appeal.

Although performance data remains similar to other CTV categories, creators view CTV as a bridge between social and television, enhancing brand partnerships and campaign value.

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Spurred by retail media and CTV spend, CPG brands are quietly leaving the cookie behind, reports Digiday

General

Sep 8, 2025

Cookie Deprecation

CPG advertisers are moving away from third-party cookies, driven by investment in retail media networks, contextual targeting and CTV. While Google’s delay slowed urgency, most marketers are still experimenting with cookieless solutions, and adoption is accelerating.

Retail media offers valuable purchase data, with Amazon and Walmart making it easy for brands to target consumers. CTV spend is also surging as audiences shift from linear TV, further reducing reliance on cookies.

Budget pressures and the pursuit of more efficient targeting are pushing advertisers toward safer, measurable channels like paid social, signalling the cookie’s diminishing role in modern marketing.

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Amazon VP of Global Video Advertising Krishan Bhatia Exits, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 7, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Amazon’s vice president of global video advertising, Krishan Bhatia, is leaving the company after joining in April 2024. His departure comes as Amazon continues to expand Prime Video ads, shoppable formats, and live sports offerings.

A veteran of NBCUniversal, Bhatia previously held senior roles including president and chief business officer of global advertising and partnerships. At Amazon, he oversaw Prime Video’s ad strategy, go-to-market and sales.

In a farewell note, Bhatia praised his team’s role in expanding Prime Video ads to 15 countries, scaling live sports advertising, and building global brand partnerships. Amazon has not named a successor.

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Paramount Skydance Plots Cable Revival, reports WSJ

General

Sep 6, 2025

Skydance CEO David Ellison is seeking to revitalise MTV and other Paramount networks after taking control of the company. At a dinner with former MTV executives, ideas ranged from live events to using its archive, with music leaders and artists expressing interest in partnerships.

Ellison’s strategy includes boosting Paramount’s streaming, cutting $2 billion in costs, and expanding into studios and videogames. Recent deals include UFC rights and a partnership with the “Stranger Things” creators.

Challenges remain, as cable viewership declines and MTV’s median audience age is 56. Executives are considering stronger digital presence and premium content investments.

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Apple sued by authors over use of books in AI training, reports Reuters

General

Sep 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple is facing a lawsuit from authors Grady Hendrix and Jennifer Roberson, who allege the company illegally used their copyrighted books to train its “OpenELM” AI models. The case, filed in Northern California, claims Apple copied works without consent, credit or compensation.

The lawsuit adds to a growing wave of legal challenges against tech firms accused of exploiting copyrighted material in AI training. Plaintiffs argue Apple relied on a pirated dataset containing their books.

Other companies, including Microsoft, Meta, OpenAI and Anthropic, have faced similar claims. Anthropic recently agreed to a record $1.5 billion settlement with authors.

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FTC commissioner questions status of Snap AI chatbot complaint: People deserve answers, reports CNBC

General

Sep 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter has questioned the status of a complaint against Snap’s My AI chatbot, referred to the Department of Justice in January over potential risks to children. She said the public deserves clarity on the matter.

The chatbot, launched in 2023 using OpenAI and Google models, has faced scrutiny for problematic responses. Neither Snap nor the DOJ commented.

Slaughter’s remarks followed a White House dinner with Big Tech CEOs. President Trump has sought to remove her from the FTC, while current FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson opposed the Snap complaint, calling it unconstitutional.

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PBS slashes 15% of its staff after federal funding cuts, reports Axios

General

Sep 5, 2025

News Publishing

PBS has announced a 15% staff reduction following federal funding cuts that stripped nearly $1.1 billion from PBS and NPR budgets for 2026 and 2027. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which distributed the funds, has shut down.

The cuts will immediately affect 34 employees, with PBS having already eliminated close to 100 positions in recent months. PBS had earlier said it would reduce its budget by 21%, while NPR also plans reductions.

Although federal funds represented only 15% of PBS’ national revenue, local stations — nearly 350 nationwide — are expected to feel the deepest impact.

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Roblox announces short-video, AI features amid child safety concerns, reports CNBC

General

Sep 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Roblox has announced new short-video and AI features as scrutiny over child safety on its platform intensifies. Roblox Moments lets users aged 13+ share moderated gameplay clips, with age restrictions on viewing mature content.

The AI tools, due later this year, will enable players to generate advanced 3D objects, with all creations also subject to moderation.

Roblox faces lawsuits alleging inadequate protection for children, including one from Louisiana’s attorney general. The company denies these claims and is expanding its age estimation programme launched in July to strengthen safety measures.

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