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OpenAI’s ChatGPT Updated to Make Images Better and Faster, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 16, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has released an update to ChatGPT Images aimed at improving image quality and speed, as competition in generative AI intensifies.

The upgrade allows more precise image creation and editing, and generates images up to four times faster. OpenAI is also adding a dedicated image-making section to ChatGPT’s app and website.

The move supports OpenAI’s ambition to make ChatGPT an all-in-one app, amid pressure from rivals such as Google’s Gemini 3, Nano Banana and Elon Musk’s Grok.

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OpenAI taps former UK finance minister Osborne to lead global Stargate expansion, reports Reuters

General

Dec 16, 2025

Leadership Transitions

OpenAI has appointed former UK chancellor George Osborne as managing director and head of its OpenAI for Countries initiative, starting in January.

The programme expands the company’s $500bn Stargate data centre strategy beyond the US, focusing on partnerships with governments to shape national AI strategies.

OpenAI says the initiative aims to promote democratic values, local innovation and AI infrastructure, highlighting the growing geopolitical importance of artificial intelligence as national infrastructure.

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U.S. Threatens Penalties Against European Tech Firms Amid Regulatory Fight, reports NYT

General

Dec 16, 2025

US officials accused the EU of discriminating against American technology firms and warned of retaliation, raising tensions in transatlantic trade talks. Washington says Brussels has pursued fines, taxes and investigations against US companies while enjoying open access to the US market.

The US Trade Representative threatened fees or restrictions on European service firms, naming companies such as SAP, Siemens and Spotify. The move marks a sharper stance by the Trump administration against EU tech regulation.

The European Commission rejected the claims, saying its rules are applied fairly, while signalling continued dialogue despite ongoing probes and recent fines on US tech groups.

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The VAB’s Latest Report Puts Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel Methodology On Blast, reports AdExchanger

General

Dec 16, 2025

The Video Advertising Bureau has criticised Nielsen’s new Big Data + Panel TV ratings, claiming they produce unstable and inconsistent audience figures compared with Nielsen’s former panel-only system.

The VAB found large variances across networks and demographics, with nearly half of viewing hours differing by more than 20%, and especially sharp swings among 18–34-year-olds and even NFL broadcasts.

Nielsen rejected the findings, calling the report flawed and accusing the VAB of misusing data. The dispute raises concerns about the reliability of TV measurement used for advertising deals.

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Amazon European Hub in Luxembourg Braces for Record Job Cuts, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 16, 2025

Amazon’s global job cuts are hitting its European headquarters in Luxembourg, where about 370 roles, or 8.5% of staff, are set to be cut. It is the country’s largest redundancy round in decades.

After talks required under EU labour law, the number was reduced. Many affected workers are foreign nationals who must find new jobs within three months or leave Luxembourg.

The cuts reflect Amazon’s drive to reduce bureaucracy and shift investment towards AI. Unions criticised the move, citing Amazon’s tax advantages and warning of social and economic impacts in the small labour market.

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App developers urge EU action on Apple fee practices, reports Reuters

General

Dec 16, 2025

A coalition of app developers and consumer groups has urged EU regulators to enforce competition rules against Apple, saying its fees still disadvantage European developers compared with US rivals.

Under the Digital Markets Act, Apple must allow free external payments, but after a €500m fine it introduced revised fees, including charges on outside transactions.

The Coalition for Apps Fairness says these changes breach the DMA and harm European businesses and consumers. It argues US developers now benefit from better terms after a US court ruling, and wants the Commission to force Apple to comply fully.

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Comscore rolls out expanded social reporting and streaming audio measurement, reports Marketing Brew

General

Dec 15, 2025

Comscore is ending 2025 by launching streaming audio measurement and expanded social reporting, reflecting growing demand for cross-platform insights.

The new tools add deduplicated reach metrics across Meta platforms and detailed daily data for audio advertising, while rebranding Campaign Ratings as Cross-Platform Campaign Results.

The updates aim to give advertisers a single view of performance across social and audio, as podcast listening and social media use continue to rise and digital ad spend accelerates into 2026.

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Meta tolerates rampant ad fraud from China to safeguard billions in revenue, reports Reuters

General

Dec 15, 2025

Responsible Media

Meta found a large share of its Chinese ad revenue was tied to scams and banned content, despite its platforms being blocked for users in China. Internal documents seen by Reuters put the problem at about 19% of China sales in 2024, over $3bn, with China linked to roughly a quarter of such ads worldwide.

A dedicated crackdown cut the rate to about 9% in late 2024, but documents say the effort was paused and the team disbanded after a strategy shift involving Mark Zuckerberg.

Violations then rebounded, reaching about 16% of China revenue by mid-2025, despite Meta citing wider enforcement and removals.

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Netflix says its position on deal with Warner Bros Discovery unchanged, reports Reuters

M&A

Dec 15, 2025

Netflix told staff its plan to acquire Warner Bros Discovery’s studios and streaming assets remains unchanged, despite a rival hostile bid from Paramount. The $72bn deal has board approval and is expected to face regulatory scrutiny.

The company said it will commit to theatrical releases, marking a shift in its business model, and argued the deal is needed to compete with YouTube’s scale.

Netflix expressed confidence in securing approvals, downplayed market share concerns, and said it does not plan studio closures or job cuts, echoing similar assurances from Paramount.

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Google Ads adds VTC bidding for App campaigns, reports Search Engine Land

General

Dec 15, 2025

Google Ads has introduced view-through conversion bidding for Android app campaigns, allowing advertisers to optimise for installs that occur after an ad is seen rather than clicked.

The change reflects a shift away from click-based metrics towards measuring influence and incrementality, particularly for video formats such as YouTube and in-feed ads.

The update benefits video-first app advertisers focused on awareness and long-term growth, but increases reliance on Google’s attribution models and may alter CPA benchmarks, putting more emphasis on creative effectiveness.

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OpenAI hires veteran Google executive as corporate development VP, reports Reuters

General

Dec 15, 2025

Leadership Transitions

OpenAI has appointed Albert Lee, a senior corporate development executive from Google, as vice president of corporate development. He will start immediately and report to chief financial officer Sarah Friar.

At Google, Lee led corporate development for Google Cloud and DeepMind, overseeing strategy, scouting and more than 60 deals worth over $50bn.

The hire follows recent senior appointments as OpenAI strengthens its leadership team to support rapid growth, deal-making and partnerships, including additions from Amazon and xAI.

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Musk’s X Posts Higher Sales Amid Costly Turnaround, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 12, 2025

Sales at Elon Musk’s X rose sharply in the third quarter, with revenue of $752 million, up more than 17% year on year, as the company shows signs of stabilising after its turbulent takeover.

Despite higher sales, X posted a $577 million net loss, driven largely by restructuring costs. For the first nine months, revenue exceeded $2 billion, while EBITDA grew 16% to about $454 million.

Advertising remains the main revenue source, alongside subscriptions and data licensing. However, X is still far smaller than Twitter was before Musk’s acquisition.

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Reddit sues Australia over social media ban, citing free speech threat, reports Reuters

General

Dec 12, 2025

Advertising To Children

Reddit has filed a case in Australia’s High Court to challenge the country’s ban on under-16s using social media, arguing it breaches constitutional protections for free political communication. It also claims it should be exempt because it does not fit the legal definition of social media.

The lawsuit follows the rollout of the world-first ban and marks the second legal challenge, though Reddit’s involvement significantly raises the stakes.

The Australian government rejected the claims, saying the law protects children, while Reddit warned the measures threaten privacy and limit young people’s political expression.

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Original Paramount bid for WBD didn't exclude foreign voting rights, reports Axios

M&A

Dec 11, 2025

Paramount altered its bid for Warner Bros Discovery by promising that foreign backers and Jared Kushner’s fund would have no voting or governance rights, aiming to address board and national security concerns.

It also strengthened financing assurances, including having the Ellison family fully back equity commitments, after earlier worries about funding reliability and share price volatility.

Despite these changes, Paramount lost out to Netflix and has now launched a $30-a-share hostile offer, arguing it is financially superior and more likely to gain regulatory approval. WBD’s board is reviewing the proposal and may face shareholder pressure.

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Google faces EU fine next year for favouring own services, sources say, reports Reuters

General

Dec 11, 2025

Google is expected to be fined by EU antitrust regulators next year for failing to fully comply with rules banning self-preferencing in search results, according to people familiar with the matter.

The European Commission charged Google in March with favouring services such as Shopping, Hotels and Flights over rivals, breaching the Digital Markets Act. Proposed changes since then are said to fall short.

Google can still amend its practices to avoid a penalty, which could reach 10% of global turnover. The case may heighten tensions with the US and is separate from a Google Play investigation.

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Disney Fires Off Cease-And-Desist Letter To Google Claiming Its AI Services Infringe On Copyright On A Massive Scale, reports Deadline

General

Dec 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Disney has sent a cease-and-desist letter to Google, alleging large-scale copyright infringement through its AI training models and services, just ahead of announcing a major licensing deal with OpenAI.

The company claims Google used and distributed Disney characters and works without permission, trained models on copyrighted material, and failed to introduce safeguards, despite repeated engagement. Disney cited Gemini and other AI tools generating branded content featuring its IP.

Google said it relies on public web data and offers copyright controls. Disney says its OpenAI deal shows AI can respect creators’ rights.

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OpenAI Unveils More Advanced Model as Race With Google Heats Up, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI has unveiled GPT-5.2, a new AI model aimed at improving ChatGPT’s performance in coding, science and complex work tasks, as competition intensifies from Google and Anthropic.

The faster model is designed to reason more like humans and handle longer, more technical tasks. It follows strong reviews for Google’s Gemini 3, which recently topped major AI benchmarks.

GPT-5.2 rolls out to paid users as OpenAI targets business growth and heavy infrastructure spending. The company is also adding age prediction tools ahead of launching an adult mode next year.

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Apple Loses Appeals Court Ruling in App Store Fight With Epic, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 11, 2025

A US appeals court has backed Epic Games in its dispute with Apple, upholding a contempt ruling that found Apple breached an order on App Store competition.

The court said Apple violated an injunction by charging a 27% fee on purchases made outside the App Store, but asked a judge to reconsider what commission is reasonable for use of Apple’s intellectual property.

The case stems from Epic’s claim that Apple unlawfully restricted competition. Apple’s long-standing fees on in-app purchases have drawn criticism from developers.

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Disney making $1 billion investment in OpenAI, will allow characters on Sora AI video generator, reports CNBC

General

Dec 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Disney will invest $1bn in OpenAI and license its characters for use in Sora, OpenAI’s text-to-video app. From next year, users can create videos featuring more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars characters.

The three-year deal makes Disney a major OpenAI customer and includes warrants for additional equity. Disney will also deploy ChatGPT internally and collaborate on new AI-powered tools and experiences.

The partnership contrasts with Disney’s legal action against other AI firms over copyright. Both companies say the agreement includes safeguards to protect creators and prevent misuse.

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Google is building an experimental new browser and a new kind of web app, reports The Verge

General

Dec 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has launched an experimental browser called Disco in Google Labs, built around GenTabs, AI-generated pages that turn prompts into interactive mini apps. Users can create planners, study tools or calculators that combine Gemini AI with live web content.

Rather than replacing browsing, Disco encourages users to open and add their own tabs, which GenTabs then incorporate. This creates a collaborative workflow grounded in real sources, not just chatbot responses.

The Chrome team sees Disco as an experiment, not a Chrome replacement, and is testing whether people want temporary or shareable AI-built web apps as part of everyday browsing.

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Pinterest Acquires CTV Startup TvScientific, reports AdExchanger

M&A

Dec 11, 2025

Pinterest has announced plans to acquire tvScientific, a connected TV advertising platform focused on performance-based buying. The deal, subject to regulatory review and expected to close in the first half of 2026, suggests a valuation above US reporting thresholds, though terms were not disclosed.

The move marks Pinterest’s first serious step into CTV advertising and aligns with its shift towards performance marketing. TvScientific’s cost-per-outcome model and algorithmic ad buying complement Pinterest’s AI-driven tools such as Performance+.

The acquisition could help Pinterest expand into CTV networks and offset engagement challenges linked to rising AI-generated content on its platform.

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As industry anticipates AI search ads, buyers scrutinize Google’s AI Max, reports Digiday

General

Dec 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google’s AI Max search ad tools promise broader reach and access to AI Overview and AI Mode placements, but agencies report mixed results. While the suite can match ads to new queries and automate copy and landing pages, some buyers say performance has fallen short of expectations.

Several agencies cite overly broad keyword matching, higher CPAs than standard search campaigns and added manual work to correct AI choices. Some have disabled AI creative features to retain control.

Despite frustrations, others note improved reporting and benefits for brands with narrow keyword strategies. As AI environments evolve, advertisers may revisit AI Max to secure future premium placements.

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US state attorneys-general demand better AI safeguards, reports FT

General

Dec 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

A coalition of 42 US attorneys-general has demanded stronger safeguards from major AI companies, warning that vulnerable users have been harmed by unsafe chatbot behaviour. The letter cites several deaths allegedly linked to interactions with chatbots and calls for better testing, safety policies and protections for children.

The intervention comes as President Trump seeks to centralise AI regulation with a federal rulebook, arguing that differing state laws would hinder US competitiveness. Some states have already passed their own AI legislation.

The attorneys-general have asked companies including Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI and Anthropic to meet officials and commit to reforms by 16 January.

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Trump Says CNN Should Be Sold as Part of Any Megadeal, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 10, 2025

News Publishing

President Trump said CNN should be sold or undergo a change in leadership, regardless of who acquires Warner Bros. Discovery. His comments add political pressure as Netflix and Paramount compete to buy different parts of the company.

Netflix has agreed a $72 billion deal for Warner’s studios and HBO Max, while Paramount has made a $77.9 billion hostile bid for the entire company, including CNN. Trump has expressed concerns directly to allies and officials, with Paramount signalling willingness to overhaul the network.

Trump’s stance could complicate Netflix’s bid, as CNN is not included in the assets it plans to acquire.

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Paramount Letter to Warner Bros. Shareholders Asks for Support, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Dec 10, 2025

Paramount Skydance has urged Warner Bros. Discovery investors to back its $30-a-share all-cash takeover bid instead of Netflix’s lower offer. CEO David Ellison argued that Netflix’s proposal faces major regulatory risks and would take far longer to complete.

Paramount said its financing is fully secured and claimed the sale process under Netflix had been unclear, noting Netflix’s sharp market value drop since October. Netflix agreed last week to buy Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming assets for $27.75 a share.

President Donald Trump has separately said any Warner Bros. deal should require CNN’s divestiture. Netflix plans to spin off cable networks, while Paramount seeks the entire company.

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Google faces fines over Google Play if it doesn't make more concessions, sources say, reports Reuters

General

Dec 10, 2025

The EU is preparing to fine Google early next year unless it makes further changes to ensure Google Play complies with the bloc’s competition rules under the Digital Markets Act. Regulators say Google still restricts developers from steering users to cheaper alternatives and charges unjustified fees.

Google’s recent adjustments are viewed as insufficient, especially compared with Apple’s overhauled App Store, which the EU is expected to deem compliant. A potential fine could reach up to 10% of Google’s global revenue.

The case adds to wider EU scrutiny of Google, including investigations into search favouritism, AI content use and spam policies, amid rising tensions with the U.S.

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Google names new chief of AI infrastructure buildout, reports Semafor

General

Dec 10, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Google has appointed long-time engineering leader Amin Vahdat as chief technologist for AI infrastructure, placing him among the small group reporting directly to CEO Sundar Pichai. The move highlights the strategic importance of infrastructure as Google expects to exceed $90 billion in capital expenditure by the end of 2025.

Vahdat has played a central role in developing Google’s TPU hardware, data centre networks and orchestration systems, which underpin its ability to serve AI products at scale. His work has helped cut costs and improve performance across core services.

His elevation signals Google’s increasing prioritisation of deep technical expertise in leadership as competition in AI intensifies.

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Britons watch YouTube for 51 minutes a day, regulator Ofcom says, reports Reuters

General

Dec 10, 2025

Britons spent an average of 51 minutes a day watching YouTube in 2025, Ofcom reported, with Alphabet and Meta services accounting for over half of all time spent online. Overall daily online usage rose to four and a half hours.

YouTube was used by 94% of UK adults, surpassing Google Search, while Facebook and Messenger remained Meta’s most widely used services. WhatsApp followed closely.

The shift highlights declining audiences for traditional broadcasters as digital platforms dominate. Regulators face pressure to reassess the ad market, with Meta and Google taking around 60% of UK ad spend and YouTube ranked the country’s second most-watched service.

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Google is testing AI-powered article overviews on select publications’ Google News pages, reports TechCrunch

General

Dec 10, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is piloting AI-generated article overviews on selected publishers’ Google News pages, aiming to give readers more context before clicking. Participating outlets include The Guardian, Der Spiegel, El País and The Washington Post, with Google providing direct payments to offset any reduction in traffic.

The overviews appear only on partner pages and sit alongside experiments such as audio briefings. Google is also working with news agencies to improve real-time information in the Gemini app.

The company is expanding tools including Preferred Sources, subscription link carousels and contextual link introductions, though critics warn these features may reinforce ideological bubbles.

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YouTube TV to Offer Pared-Down, Lower-Priced Channel Bundles, reports WSJ

General

Dec 10, 2025

YouTube TV will launch genre-based “skinny bundles” in early 2026, letting viewers pay for smaller channel packages instead of the full $82.99-a-month offering. Options will include a sports bundle featuring major broadcasters, FS1, NBC Sports Network and all ESPN channels.

The slimmer packages follow industry efforts to attract customers seeking lower-cost, tailored TV plans. Add-ons such as NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone will remain available.

YouTube TV, now with around 10 million subscribers, is leveraging its scale amid fierce competition in sports and live TV. Rivals including DirecTV and ESPN have recently introduced their own targeted sports packages.

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Shopify Rolls Out Ad Network for Millions of Merchants, reports AdWeek

General

Dec 10, 2025

Shopify is expanding its advertising capabilities with the launch of Product Network, a tool that lets merchants recommend products from other merchants directly on their own storefronts. This builds on Shop Campaigns, previously limited to Shopify’s Shop app and website.

The move enables ads to appear across millions of Shopify storefronts, creating new conversion opportunities without sending shoppers elsewhere. Shopify says the scale of its merchant base will help increase on-site engagement.

According to Shopify, the aim is to boost sales while keeping buyers within merchants’ ecosystems, strengthening its growing advertising business.

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Alternative Social Media Apps Surge as Australia Teen Ban Starts, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 9, 2025

Advertising To Children

Alternative social platforms have surged in Australia as the country’s new under-16 social media ban takes effect. Children are flocking to non-restricted apps, with TikTok-owned Lemon8 becoming the most downloaded free app, followed by Yope and the child-focused platform Coverstar.

The ban, introduced on Wednesday, forces major platforms like TikTok and Instagram to block under-16s or risk heavy fines of up to A$49.5 million.

Australia is the first democracy to impose such restrictions, prompting global attention as it seeks to address growing concerns about social media’s impact on young people.

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Disney nominates former Apple COO to its board, reports Reuters

General

Dec 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Disney has nominated former Apple chief operating officer Jeff Williams to join its board as an independent director at the 2026 shareholders’ meeting, a move that would expand the board to 11 members if approved.

Williams, who retired from Apple earlier this year, played a key role in major product launches including the first iPhone and Apple Watch, and oversaw the company’s push into health and fitness.

His appointment would add another senior tech leader to Disney’s board, following the 2022 addition of former Instacart president and Meta executive Carolyn Everson.

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Indian AI royalty proposal targets data practices of OpenAI, Google, reports Reuters

General

Dec 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

An Indian government panel has proposed that AI companies must pay royalties for using creators’ work to train models, challenging firms such as OpenAI and Google that rely on free access to public data. The scheme would create a central royalty pool for copyright holders.

The proposal rejects opt-out systems like the EU’s, arguing creators cannot feasibly track their work in vast datasets. It contrasts sharply with the U.S. and Japan, where AI firms enjoy broader exemptions under fair-use principles.

Tech body Nasscom has opposed the plan as a tax on innovation, while rights holders argue licensing alone is insufficient.

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Telemundo Has Sold 90% of Ad Time Tied to 2026 FIFA World Cup Telecasts, reports Variety

General

Dec 9, 2025

Sports Marketing

Telemundo has already sold 90% of its advertising inventory for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, more than six months before the tournament begins. Advertiser spending has doubled compared with the 2022 event, with major brands such as AT&T, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Toyota onboard.

NBCUniversal credits soaring U.S. interest in football, the tournament’s North American location and rising demand for Spanish-language content for the strong sales. Telemundo and Peacock will air all 104 matches live.

Executives say the unprecedented demand reflects the economic power of Latino audiences and the appeal of a once-in-a-generation World Cup on home soil.

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OpenAI Hires Slack CEO as Chief Revenue Officer, reports AdWeek

General

Dec 9, 2025

Leadership Transitions

OpenAI has hired Slack CEO Denise Dresser to lead its enterprise division as it pushes to turn ChatGPT into a sustainable business. She will report to COO Brad Lightcap and starts next week.

Her appointment comes amid significant financial strain. OpenAI generated strong revenue in early 2025 but burned billions on model development and infrastructure, with losses projected to reach unprecedented levels by 2028.

The company is exploring new revenue streams, including ads and tiered subscriptions, to support its expansion. OpenAI said Dresser’s enterprise experience will help make its AI tools more reliable and widely adopted by businesses.

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EU Opens Google Antitrust Probe Over AI Use of Online Content, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 9, 2025

The European Union has opened an investigation into whether Google has abused its market power by favouring its own AI tools and imposing unfair terms on content creators. Regulators will assess whether Google’s practices distort competition in emerging AI markets.

The probe will scrutinise how Google generates AI Overviews and AI Mode, including the extent to which these rely on publishers’ content and whether creators are properly compensated.

EU antitrust chief Teresa Ribera said the case demonstrates the bloc’s commitment to protecting online press and ensuring fair competition as AI technologies expand.

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Spotify expands music videos access to premium users in US, Canada to take on YouTube, reports Reuters

General

Dec 9, 2025

Spotify will offer music videos to premium users in the US and Canada, stepping up competition with YouTube and aiming to boost engagement. The rollout follows a beta launch in nearly 100 markets last year.

The initial catalogue includes artists such as Ariana Grande and Addison Rae. Spotify says music videos significantly increase the likelihood that users re-stream, save or share tracks.

The move comes as engagement on the platform rises and further price increases are expected next year. Spotify has already raised subscription prices in over 150 markets, and CEO Daniel Ek will become executive chairman in January.

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Australia social media ban takes effect in world first, reports Reuters

General

Dec 9, 2025

Advertising To Children

Australia has become the first country to ban social media use for children under 16, blocking access to platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. Ten major platforms must comply or face fines of up to A$49.5 million.

The move has been welcomed by parents and child-safety advocates but criticised by tech firms and free speech groups. Other countries are watching closely as concerns grow over social media’s impact on children.

Most platforms, except X, say they will comply using age-verification technologies. The government expects the list of restricted services to evolve as young users shift platforms.

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Google gives agencies access to data manager for AI ad targeting tools, reports AdAge

General

Dec 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has opened its ads data manager to third parties through a new API, allowing agencies, advertisers and developers to plug in first-party data more easily across Google Ads and DV360. The move strengthens Google’s position as it competes with Amazon and Meta in AI-driven advertising.

The API lets partners build custom audiences, track conversions and integrate their own AI-powered tools, giving them more control than previous data workflows allowed. Early adopters include Jellyfish, Zapier, Hightouch and AdSwerve.

Google says the upgrade provides the data foundation needed for AI-optimised campaigns such as Performance Max and AI Max, offering agencies new ways to influence targeting and optimisation.

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PubMatic Strikes Deal With Startup Kontext to Inject Ads Into AI Chatbots Via Programmatic Auctions, reports AdWeek

General

Dec 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Major AI labs are moving towards ad-funded models, and PubMatic is entering the space with a new integration enabling advertisers to place dynamic text ads inside AI chat interfaces. The SSP is partnering with Kontext, whose technology generates real-time, context-aware ads within conversations.

Initially, ads can run in smaller chatbots such as Liner AI and Deep AI, with targeting, safety controls and measurement handled through familiar programmatic tools. Early tests show strong performance, including higher ROAS and conversion rates.

The rollout begins with private marketplace deals, with plans to expand access. PubMatic and Kontext say the model offers new monetisation routes for publishers and high-intent opportunities for brands.

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Google denies ads are coming to Gemini in 2026, reports Search Engine Land

General

Dec 8, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has denied a report claiming it plans to introduce advertising into its Gemini AI chatbot from 2026. Adweek had reported that Google told major advertisers Gemini would receive dedicated ad placements, though no formats or pricing were shown.

Google’s ads chief Dan Taylor publicly rejected the claim, saying there are no ads in Gemini and no plans to introduce them. The conversations described by buyers were characterised as speculative and lacking technical detail.

The dispute highlights growing interest in monetising AI assistants. Although Google insists Gemini will remain ad-free for now, advertisers expect future opportunities as rival AI platforms experiment with ads.

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IBM puts its media account into review, reports AdAge

General

Dec 8, 2025

IBM has placed its global media account into review, with incumbent WPP Media opting not to defend the business. IBM’s long-standing creative relationship with WPP agency Ogilvy, dating back to 1994, remains unchanged.

WPP said it values its partnership with IBM but will not repitch, following a year marked by both major client losses and recent wins with brands such as Mastercard and the UK government.

IBM’s global media spend was $330 million in 2024, while total advertising and promotional expenditure reached $1.17 billion, according to company filings.

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Google Tells Advertisers It’ll Bring Ads to Gemini in 2026, reports AdWeek

General

Dec 8, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has told advertising clients that it intends to introduce ads into its Gemini AI chatbot, targeting a rollout in 2026. The plans were shared in recent calls with agencies, although Google has not yet shown prototypes or explained formats, pricing or testing.

The initiative is separate from ads in Google’s AI search experience, AI Mode, launched earlier this year.

Buyers say the lack of technical detail means it is unclear how ads will be integrated into Gemini, but Google appears to be preparing for a new monetisation phase for its conversational AI.

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Paramount Makes $108 Billion Hostile Bid for Warner Bros., reports Bloomberg

M&A

Dec 8, 2025

Paramount Skydance has launched a hostile $30-a-share all-cash bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, days after WBD agreed a $72 billion deal with Netflix. Paramount argues its offer gives shareholders greater value and a faster, more certain path to completion.

The bid intensifies a battle that began months ago, with Netflix’s offer backed by WBD’s board and focused only on studios and streaming, while Paramount seeks to acquire the entire company. Regulatory approval remains a major hurdle for either bidder.

Trump has signalled concerns about market concentration, and analysts say an offer of around $33 a share may be needed to shift WBD from the Netflix deal.

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Meta offers EU users ad-light option in push to end investigation, reports FT

General

Dec 8, 2025

Meta has proposed changes to its “pay or consent” model in the EU, offering Facebook and Instagram users a version with less personalised advertising to address regulatory concerns.

The move follows an EU probe under the Digital Markets Act and a €200 million fine requiring Meta to alter its approach or face escalating daily penalties. Regulators will review the offer before deciding whether to close the case.

The development comes amid wider EU actions against major tech firms, prompting strong criticism from senior US officials who accuse Brussels of overreach and unfairly targeting American companies.

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Trump says he will sign executive order this week on AI approval process, reports Reuters

General

Dec 8, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

President Donald Trump said he will issue an executive order this week to create a single national approval process for artificial intelligence. He argued the U.S. must avoid a patchwork of state-level rules.

Trump said a unified “One Rulebook” is essential for maintaining U.S. leadership in AI.

He added that companies should not be required to seek approval from all 50 states whenever they develop new AI technologies.

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X deactivates European Commission’s ad account after the company was fined €120M, reports TechCrunch

General

Dec 7, 2025

The European Commission has fined X €120 million under the Digital Services Act, calling its paid blue check system deceptive and criticising failures in ad transparency. X must address these issues within set deadlines or face further penalties.

Elon Musk dismissed the fine, while X’s product chief Nikita Bier accused the Commission of exploiting an ad tool to boost reach, saying its ad account has now been terminated, though the company claims this was unrelated to the penalty.

The Commission rejected the accusation, saying it used X’s tools in good faith and has not run paid advertising on the platform since 2023.

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Trump says he'll be involved in review of Netflix-Warner Brothers deal, reports Reuters

M&A

Dec 7, 2025

President Trump said he expects to play a role in deciding whether Netflix’s proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros should proceed, citing concerns about the combined company’s potential market power. He made the remarks while attending the Kennedy Center honours.

Netflix’s deal would give it control of Warner Bros’ film, TV and streaming operations, significantly expanding its influence in Hollywood.

Trump did not indicate support or opposition but noted the merger’s scale could pose competition issues, leaving the final judgment to economic advisers and regulators.

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WPP Raises Its Ad Growth Forecast Thanks To The AI Boom, But That Doesn’t Mean It Will Last, reports AdExchanger

General

Dec 7, 2025

WPP Media has raised its 2025 global ad spend forecast to 8.8% growth, up from 6%, driven by reduced tariff impact and accelerating investment in AI. Its “intelligence” category, which includes search, now accounts for over 21% of global ad revenue.

WPP expects intelligence to grow 10.3% in 2026 before slowing, and will expand the category to include AI search once platforms like ChatGPT introduce ads. Alphabet is already viewed as the leader in this space.

Despite AI-driven efficiencies and new advertisers emerging, WPP predicts slower growth from 2026 due to tariff aftereffects and rising regulation.

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Google Must Limit Default Contracts to One Year, Judge Rules, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 5, 2025

A US judge has ruled that Google must renegotiate any contracts making its search engine or AI app the default on smartphones and other devices every year, following a landmark finding that it illegally monopolised online search.

The judgment allows Google to continue offering default deals to Apple, Samsung and others but removes long-term arrangements, giving rivals, including AI challengers, an annual opportunity to compete.

The ruling builds on earlier decisions requiring Google to share some search data and banning exclusive default agreements. Both Google and the Justice Department may still appeal aspects of the case.

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Criteo Lays Out Its AI Ambitions And How It Might Make Money From LLMs, reports AdExchanger

General

Dec 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Criteo has begun testing an AI integration that feeds its shopping data into an unnamed LLM via its Model Context Protocol, aiming to improve product suggestions from AI prompts. The partnership is experimental, with no business model yet defined.

The company argues its large commerce dataset could make it valuable to AI firms, despite limitations on how much of that data it truly owns. Criteo also launched Audience Agent, a tool that builds campaigns via natural-language prompts.

As Criteo expands into upper-funnel channels like Meta and TikTok, it must still prove incremental ROAS and compete credibly with Google and Meta.

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Musk’s X Fined €120 Million by EU in First Content-Law Penalty, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 5, 2025

Responsible Media

The EU has fined Elon Musk’s X €120 million for breaching the Digital Services Act, citing misleading paid blue ticks, blocked researcher access and a flawed ad repository. The penalty is far lower than feared and not based on Musk’s wider business empire.

The decision comes amid rising political tension, with US leaders criticising EU tech regulation and Musk closely aligned with President Trump. X now has 60 days to propose fixes and 90 days to implement them or face further penalties.

The case sets a precedent for future DSA enforcement as wider probes into X’s handling of illegal content and disinformation continue.

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Meta enters AI licensing fray, striking deals with People Inc., USA Today Co. and more, reports Digiday

General

Dec 5, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has signed seven multi-year licensing deals allowing content from publishers including CNN, Fox News, People and USA Today to be used in its Llama AI models. Archived and new material will soon be integrated, marking Meta’s most significant move yet into licensed AI training data.

The company had lagged rivals such as OpenAI and Microsoft, but rising competition in the LLM market has accelerated its shift toward formal content access. The deals come as Meta reorganises its AI teams under Meta Superintelligence Labs.

Publishers see the agreements as validating the value of their content and a way to secure revenue amid growing AI-related risks.

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European publishers say the Digital Omnibus cookie fix leaves them worse off, reports Digiday

General

Dec 5, 2025

European publishers say the EU’s new Digital Omnibus delivers little real change and may worsen their ability to secure user consent for tracking. Though pitched as a simplification of privacy rules, they argue it adds complexity while failing to support ad-funded media.

A major concern is browser-level consent, which could allow users to block tracking universally, cutting off vital data. Publishers doubt exemptions will work and fear ad tech firms won’t risk GDPR liability in determining who qualifies.

The one-click consent/reject rule may further depress consent rates. Overall, publishers believe the reforms strengthen Big Tech’s position while restricting their own options.

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Netflix to buy Warner Bros. film and streaming assets in $72 billion deal, reports CNBC

M&A

Dec 5, 2025

Netflix has agreed to buy Warner Bros. Discovery’s film studio and HBO Max streaming service in a deal valuing WBD at $72 billion. The transaction, partly cash and partly stock, comes after a competitive bidding process involving Paramount Skydance and Comcast.

WBD will continue with its planned spinout of Discovery Global, retaining its portfolio of TV networks. Netflix said the acquisition is a rare opportunity to combine its scale with Warner Bros.’ rich library.

Regulatory approval is still required, with scrutiny expected given the companies’ size. Paramount, which submitted a higher cash bid, criticised the sale process as biased toward Netflix.

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Adtech company Teads is laying off staff 10 months after closing its merger with Outbrain, reports Insider

General

Dec 4, 2025

Teads is laying off fewer than 10% of its 1,800 staff, marking turbulence less than a year after its merger with Outbrain. The combined company has struggled, with shares down over 90% and continued weak quarterly results.

Leadership cites merger complexities, macro pressures and declining web traffic as key challenges, while senior executives depart and new hires attempt to stabilise operations. A full business review is under way, with a three-year plan due in March.

Meanwhile, rivals like Taboola have fared better by diversifying and securing major partnerships, underscoring Teads’ need to regain momentum in a shifting adtech market.

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Top Apple Executives to Leave, Adding to Recent Departures, reports WSJ

General

Dec 4, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Apple announced the upcoming retirement of two senior executives: sustainability and government affairs chief Lisa Jackson in January, and general counsel Kate Adams late next year. Adams will be succeeded in March by former Meta legal chief Jennifer Newstead.

The changes follow Meta’s hiring of two veteran Apple designers and add to a series of high-level departures across Apple’s leadership. Four of Tim Cook’s 11 top deputies have announced exits or transitions within the past year.

Speculation over Cook’s future continues, with potential successors including John Ternus, Craig Federighi, Eddy Cue and Greg Joswiak, amid wider leadership reshuffling across hardware, software and AI.

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NFL shatters Thanksgiving Day viewership records, reports Axios

General

Dec 4, 2025

Sports Marketing

Thanksgiving NFL games drew nearly 45 million average viewers, breaking last year’s record. Nielsen’s improved measurement of out-of-home audiences contributed to the surge, particularly for gatherings on major viewing days.

The Cowboys–Chiefs game set a new regular-season record with 57.2 million viewers, while other matchups also posted strong numbers. Streaming viewership rose 58% to 2.2 million.

Overall NFL ratings are up 6% this season, reinforced by Nielsen’s new Big Data + Panel system. The results highlight live sport’s unique power to attract mass audiences and sustain linear television amid shifting viewing habits.

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Bloomberg Media COO Julia Beizer to Join Microsoft, Lead AI News Product, reports AdWeek

General

Dec 4, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Julia Beizer, chief operating officer of Bloomberg Media, is leaving after eight years to join Microsoft, where she will lead its AI news product under Microsoft AI chief Mustafa Suleyman. She departs after helping grow Bloomberg’s subscription business to more than 700,000 paying readers.

Her appointment aligns with Microsoft’s broader push into AI-powered news, including Copilot Daily and its Publisher Content Marketplace, which pays publishers for data used in AI outputs.

Tech firms have increasingly recruited media executives to strengthen ties with publishers. Beizer is expected to help expand Microsoft’s efforts to create sustainable compensation models for news content in the AI era.

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Comcast’s Versant Spin-Off From NBCU Set to Close in January, reports Variety

General

Dec 4, 2025

Comcast will separate NBC from its long-associated cable networks early next year, creating a new company called Versant on 2 January 2026. The spin-off will include MSNBC, CNBC, USA, E!, Oxygen, Golf Channel and digital assets such as Fandango and Rotten Tomatoes.

Shareholders will receive one Versant share for every 25 Comcast shares held as of 16 December. Mark Lazarus will lead the newly public entity, which aims to unlock value by freeing NBC, Telemundo and Peacock from declining cable assets.

Completion remains subject to board approval and conditions, with Versant set to trade under the ticker VSNT.

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EU launches antitrust probe into Meta over WhatsApp AI policy, reports FT

General

Dec 4, 2025

The European Commission has opened an antitrust investigation into Meta’s new terms governing AI providers’ access to WhatsApp, amid concerns the rules could block rival chatbot services. The probe follows Italy’s own investigations into WhatsApp’s AI integration.

Meta argues the claims are unfounded and that its systems face strain from third-party AI tools, while competitors say the policy limits consumer choice. The inquiry sits outside the EU’s Digital Markets Act.

The move comes as Brussels steps up scrutiny of Big Tech, despite US criticism. It follows recent DMA probes into Google, Amazon and Microsoft, and arrives weeks after Meta defeated a major US antitrust case.

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Meta’s Zuckerberg Plans Deep Cuts for Metaverse Efforts, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 4, 2025

Gaming / Metaverse

Meta is preparing to sharply reduce investment in its metaverse division, with potential cuts of up to 30% in 2026. The move would mainly affect virtual reality and Horizon Worlds, and could include layoffs as early as January.

The shift reflects weaker-than-expected industry adoption, investor pressure and billions in accumulated losses at Reality Labs. Zuckerberg has asked for broader cost reductions across the company.

Meta is now prioritising AI development and related hardware, with the metaverse no longer central to public messaging. Analysts have long argued that scaling back VR projects would free resources for AI initiatives.

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Paramount questions Warner Bros. Discovery on fairness and adequacy of sale process, reports CNBC

M&A

Dec 4, 2025

Paramount Skydance has accused Warner Bros. Discovery of running an unfair sale process that favours Netflix, after second-round bids were submitted by Paramount, Netflix and Comcast. In a letter to CEO David Zaslav, Paramount questioned the integrity of the process and alleged management bias.

Reports suggest WBD leadership prefers Netflix’s mostly cash offer, while Paramount says its own attempts have been obstructed. WBD has denied wrongdoing and insists its board is meeting fiduciary duties.

Paramount is urging WBD to appoint an independent special committee to oversee the sale. A winner could be announced as early as next week.

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Google’s Proposals on Ad Tech Antitrust Compliance Tested by EU, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 4, 2025

The European Commission is consulting industry stakeholders on Google’s proposal to address EU antitrust concerns over its ad tech dominance, following a €2.95 billion fine. The plan includes allowing publishers to set different minimum prices and improving interoperability across Google’s ad tech services.

If the market test receives positive feedback, it could end further proceedings. Around 200 customers and rivals are being asked to evaluate the commitments.

At the same time, EU regulators have intensified scrutiny of Big Tech, launching a new probe into Meta over WhatsApp’s AI features. Potential fines can reach up to 10% of global revenue.

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EU Probe of Musk’s X Tests Bloc’s Digital Clout in Trump Era, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 4, 2025

Responsible Media

The EU aims to conclude several tech investigations by year-end, including its major probe into Elon Musk’s X under the Digital Services Act. Regulators accuse X of failing transparency duties, restricting researcher access and misleading users over paid verification.

X could face fines of up to 6% of global revenue, and the Commission is considering whether Musk’s wider businesses should also be treated as liable. Wider concerns about illegal content and disinformation remain under review.

The case tests EU resolve amid tense US–EU relations, with Washington criticising European tech regulation. Despite political pressure, the EU has continued issuing fines against major US platforms.

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Australia says the world will follow social media ban as Meta starts blocking teens, reports Reuters

General

Dec 4, 2025

Advertising To Children

Australia’s upcoming ban on social media accounts for under-16s is being framed as the first step in a broader global effort to curb Big Tech, according to eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant. She now supports the strict measure after concluding softer regulation failed.

Meta, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube have begun deactivating or freezing hundreds of thousands of underage accounts ahead of the 10 December deadline. The law carries fines of up to A$49.5 million.

With around 96% of Australian under-16s on social media, parents have welcomed the move, while platforms have resisted and even appealed to the U.S. government over free-speech concerns.

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OpenAI loses fight to keep ChatGPT logs secret in copyright case, reports Reuters

General

Dec 3, 2025

A U.S. judge has ordered OpenAI to hand over 20 million anonymised ChatGPT logs to the New York Times and other publishers in their copyright lawsuit. The court rejected OpenAI’s privacy objections, saying de-identification measures adequately protect users.

The logs will help determine whether ChatGPT reproduced protected journalism and counter OpenAI’s claim that the Times “hacked” the system. OpenAI maintains that almost all transcripts are irrelevant and has appealed the ruling.

The case is one of several alleging tech firms used news content without permission to train AI models. OpenAI must deliver the logs within seven days of stripping identifying data.

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AI Max undermines match-type control, reports Search Engine Land

General

Dec 3, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Tests by Adalysis show Google’s new AI Max setting effectively turns all keywords into broad match, blurring reporting and reducing advertiser control. It can reassign impressions from exact and phrase match terms, inflating its perceived performance.

Search-term reports also reveal mismatches, with brand queries triggering non-brand or competitor terms, making strong negative lists essential. AI Max may even override Google’s stated match-type hierarchy.

Advertisers are advised to add broad match versions of core keywords, separate brand and non-brand traffic, and closely monitor search terms. AI Max can scale campaigns but obscures what is truly driving results.

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Amazon adds news tab to Prime Video in user expansion push, reports Reuters

General

Dec 3, 2025

Amazon is adding a dedicated news tab to Prime Video, offering free access to U.S. users by year-end. It will feature live channels including ABC News Live, CBS News 24/7, Fox’s LiveNOW, CNN Headlines and NBC News NOW.

The move aims to make live news easier to find and help Amazon compete more effectively in the streaming market. Content will span global, national and regional topics.

Amazon is also launching Sony Pictures Core as a paid subscription channel on Prime Video in the U.S. and Canada, offering films and shows for $6.99 per month.

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WPP to Exit FTSE 100 as Client Exodus, AI Threat Pummel Shares, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 3, 2025

WPP will be removed from the FTSE 100 after its share price fell to a 25-year low, driven by client losses and pressure from AI competitors. It will be replaced by British Land on 19 December.

The advertising group has cut growth targets twice this year and undergone leadership changes, with Cindy Rose taking over in September. Investor concerns have grown as big brands build in-house capabilities and tech companies offer automated ad tools.

Major account losses, including Mars and Pfizer, further weakened performance. WPP’s market value has dropped to 117th, triggering automatic relegation under FTSE rules.

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YouTube says it will comply with Australia's teen social media ban, reports Reuters

General

Dec 3, 2025

Advertising To Children

YouTube will comply with Australia’s new under-16 social media ban by signing out all users below that age from 10 December, preventing them from logging in, posting or using parental controls. Content can still be viewed while logged out.

Google criticised the law, arguing it will make younger teens less safe, while the government said YouTube should fix safety issues on its platform. The measure follows evidence of harmful content exposure.

Most major platforms have agreed to comply, with penalties up to A$49.5 million for breaches. Australia’s move is being watched internationally as a potential precedent for age-based regulation.

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Netflix, Warner Bros Discovery combo seen lowering costs for consumers, sources say, reports Reuters

General

Dec 3, 2025

Netflix is arguing that its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery’s studios and HBO Max would lower costs for consumers through a bundled offer, aiming to ease regulatory concerns over reduced competition.

The mostly cash bid would expand Netflix’s content library, though analysts say it would not dramatically increase its market share, as most subscribers already take HBO Max. Rival bidders Paramount and Comcast also see HBO Max as a way to strengthen their streaming services.

A deal would grant Netflix access to major IP, but political scrutiny remains, with critics warning of excessive market power even as YouTube dominates overall streaming viewership.

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The Trade Desk loosens its grip on pricing amid buyer pressure, reports Digiday

General

Dec 3, 2025

Agencies report that The Trade Desk, long known for rigid pricing, is now negotiating fees as competition from Amazon and Google intensifies. Amazon’s lower costs and growing DSP capabilities are pressuring the market.

Some buyers have secured small fee reductions or post-auction discounts tied to higher spending thresholds, while others have been offered development support. These concessions mark a notable shift as The Trade Desk seeks to reinforce agency relationships.

Despite strong revenue growth, the company faces a tougher narrative as Amazon gains ground. Agencies now enter 2025 negotiations knowing The Trade Desk is more flexible than before.

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OpenX redraws the SSP-agency relationship, reports Digiday

General

Dec 3, 2025

Supply-side platforms were created to serve publishers but increasingly court advertisers, creating tension over conflicting incentives. OpenX has embraced this shift, with its agency-facing business growing sharply.

It now runs detailed diagnostic sessions for agencies and offers tools that let buyers analyse and curate supply with unprecedented transparency. This reflects rising demand for cleaner, more predictable inventory and responsible supply practices.

By removing MFA inventory and limiting duplication, OpenX aims to build trust as SSP–agency collaboration deepens. Agencies now view SSPs not just as pipes but as partners improving efficiency and performance in programmatic buying.

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Google adds Search Partners segment to PMax reporting, reports Search Engine Land

General

Dec 2, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google has added long-requested transparency to Performance Max campaigns by revealing spend and performance for Search Partners within PMax reporting. Advertisers can now see how this traffic contributes to results and whether it delivers incremental value.

The update exposes how PMax allocates budgets across channels, helping teams judge if Search Partners improve or weaken efficiency. Previously, this activity was hidden, limiting optimisation.

For advertisers running PMax at scale, the new data enables better budgeting, clearer analysis and more informed strategy. It marks a small but significant step toward understanding Google’s automated campaign systems.

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Google tests merging AI Overviews with AI Mode, reports TechCrunch

General

Dec 2, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is testing a unified experience that links its AI Overviews with AI Mode, allowing users to move directly from search results into conversational follow-ups with Gemini. The change removes the need to switch manually between traditional search and chat.

The test, available globally on mobile, aims to reflect how users often shift from simple queries to deeper exploration. It follows strong growth in Gemini usage and rising competition with OpenAI.

Google says the goal is to let people ask questions naturally without deciding in advance how to search, bringing its vision of more intuitive, conversational search closer to reality.

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TikTok and LinkedIn Face Investigations by Irish Media Regulator, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 2, 2025

Responsible Media

Ireland’s media regulator has launched investigations into TikTok and LinkedIn over possible shortcomings in how users report illegal content. It is examining whether both platforms meet EU requirements for accessible, user-friendly reporting tools.

The move follows a similar probe into X, which is accused of failing to act on user reports. Under EU digital rules, Ireland oversees these mechanisms for platforms headquartered in its jurisdiction.

If breaches are confirmed, the regulator can impose fines of up to 6% of global annual revenue.

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Ready or not, AI-generated ads have come to CTV, reports Marketing Brew

General

Dec 2, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

AI-powered tools for creating connected TV ads are rapidly emerging, with new platforms from Comcast and Mntn joining established providers like Waymark. They aim to help smaller advertisers produce TV-quality creative as CTV ad spend rises.

Comcast’s Universal Ads lets brands generate ads and buy media, while Mntn’s QuickFrame AI can create ready-to-run ads in minutes. Both hope to draw more spend into premium video.

However, analysts doubt these tools will unlock major new budgets. Much of the expected growth may simply shift money from local TV rather than bring fresh spending, particularly among small and medium-sized businesses.

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OpenAI’s Sam Altman declares code red after rivals make advances, reports FT

General

Dec 2, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Sam Altman has issued a “code red” at OpenAI, ordering a shift of resources to improve ChatGPT as Google and Anthropic close the performance gap. He warned that the company is at a critical moment.

OpenAI will delay advertising tools, AI agents and its Pulse product to focus on speed, reliability and personalisation. The move follows rising costs, competitive pressure and talent challenges.

Google’s Gemini 3 and Anthropic’s Opus 4.5 have recently outperformed GPT-5 in benchmarks. Despite this, ChatGPT remains dominant, with plans to enhance capability and global reach as user behaviour shifts.

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German antitrust watchdog tests Apple's revised app tracking rules, reports Reuters

General

Dec 2, 2025

Germany’s antitrust regulator is reviewing Apple’s proposed changes to its app tracking consent rules, seeking input from publishers, media groups and authorities to judge whether competition concerns are resolved.

Apple has agreed to more neutral and consistent consent prompts and to simplify how developers obtain permission, while maintaining its privacy stance. The review involves national and regional data protection bodies.

However, Apple’s plans do not cover advertising attribution, which it will continue without prior consent. Regulators remain wary of competitive disadvantages for third parties. A final decision will follow the market test.

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Apple can be sued in a Dutch court for antitrust damages, EU's top court says, reports Reuters

General

Dec 2, 2025

The EU’s top court has ruled that Apple can be sued in the Netherlands for alleged antitrust damages linked to its App Store fees. The decision supports two Dutch foundations seeking compensation for affected users.

Apple had argued that Dutch courts lacked jurisdiction because the alleged harm occurred elsewhere. Judges rejected this, noting the App Store is tailored to the Dutch market.

They said damage can occur where purchases are made, regardless of user location at the time. The ruling confirms Dutch courts have authority to hear the case.

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Disney’s Succession Race Enters Final Stage as Iger’s Reign Draws to End, reports WSJ

General

Dec 1, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Disney is preparing to name a successor to CEO Bob Iger in early 2026 after years of turbulent succession attempts. Internal candidates Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden are seen as the frontrunners.

D’Amaro leads the fast-growing parks and experiences division, while Walden oversees TV and streaming and is regarded as Disney’s top creative executive. Both have presented their visions to the board.

The company aims for a smooth transition with minimal disruption and has extended contracts for senior leaders. The next CEO will face major challenges, including streaming competition, park expansion and revitalising key film franchises.

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Netflix Makes Majority Cash Bid for Warner Discovery, reports WSJ

M&A

Dec 1, 2025

Netflix has raised its mainly cash offer for Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming assets, competing with improved bids from Paramount and Comcast. All parties await a response from Warner Discovery.

Warner Discovery is aiming to conclude its sale process by Christmas and may still split into two companies. Paramount’s bid covers the whole group, including cable networks, while Netflix and Comcast only want studios and streaming.

A Netflix acquisition could face strong regulatory scrutiny, especially over HBO Max. Mergers involving Paramount or Comcast may also raise concerns about media consolidation and the scale of combined production and news operations.

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Apple AI Head John Giannandrea to Leave After Chaotic Stint, reports Bloomberg

General

Dec 1, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Apple’s AI chief John Giannandrea is stepping down after a turbulent period marked by delays and weak progress in generative AI. He will leave the company in the spring.

Under his leadership, Apple lagged rivals, launched a criticised Apple Intelligence platform and postponed major Siri upgrades. Apple will not replace him but split AI responsibilities across Craig Federighi, Sabih Khan and Eddy Cue.

New AI vice president Amar Subramanya joins to lead foundation models and research. Apple’s AI teams have faced significant departures, amid concerns over outsourcing technology and the company’s broader AI direction.

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John Halley, Paramount Ad-Sales President, to Exit, reports Variety

General

Dec 1, 2025

Leadership Transitions

John Halley will leave Paramount after a restructuring placed new chief revenue officer Jay Askinasi in charge of advertising. Halley will stay on through March in an advisory role.

Askinasi’s appointment created uncertainty within the sales division, though he is well regarded by clients. Paramount aims to unify its streaming sales infrastructure to compete with major digital players.

Halley, known for ad-tech innovation, helped advance audience buying, new measurement tools and Pluto’s launch. His tenure saw shifts in upfront strategy, while Paramount faces falling TV ad revenue but growing direct-to-consumer income.

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YouTube is coming for TV's money, reports Axios

General

Dec 1, 2025

Influencer Marketing

YouTube is promoting a wider range of creators who produce TV-style, high-quality shows, aiming to deepen its relevance with traditional TV advertisers. Despite strong viewing figures, especially on TVs, it still struggles to fully enter TV planning cycles.

At its first Creator Premieres event in New York, YouTube showcased new episodic content from creators including Mark Vins, Cleo Abram and Trevor Noah. The goal is to show advertisers that many creators now operate as full production studios.

YouTube is enhancing tools to make content more TV-like and highlighted successful brand partnerships. It plans more events to align with major advertising and entertainment moments.

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Omnicom to axe historic ad agencies and cut 4,000 jobs in IPG takeover, reports FT

M&A

Dec 1, 2025

Agency Management

Omnicom will cut more than 4,000 jobs and close several historic agency brands following its $13bn takeover of Interpublic, creating the world’s largest advertising group. Agencies including DDB, MullenLowe and FCB will be folded into Omnicom networks such as TBWA and BBDO.

The restructuring comes as the industry faces pressure from tech platforms and the growing impact of AI on creative work. Both Omnicom and IPG have already announced thousands of job cuts in recent years as they streamline operations.

Omnicom says the merger will exceed projected cost savings and strengthen its media and technology capabilities, while retaining major brands such as McCann, OMD and Weber Shandwick.

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Code suggests that OpenAI may be close to introducing ads for ChatGPT, reports Engadget

General

Nov 30, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

ChatGPT’s Android beta app now contains code referencing advertising features, suggesting OpenAI may soon introduce ads to the platform.

Reports earlier indicated the company was exploring ads informed by user memory or chats, though Sam Altman has previously described ads in AI as unsettling but not off the table.

The code does not indicate how ads would appear, but they are likely aimed at the free ChatGPT tier, which already has stricter usage limits than paid plans.

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Google ditches EU antitrust complaint about Microsoft cloud amid EU probe, reports Reuters

General

Nov 28, 2025

Google has withdrawn its EU antitrust complaint against Microsoft’s cloud practices after regulators opened a broader investigation into the sector. The complaint had alleged that Microsoft unfairly locked customers into Azure, limiting competition.

Google said it will now focus on working with policymakers as the EU examines whether Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services hold reinforced market power.

The European Commission’s probe could result in both services being designated as gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act. This would impose strict obligations intended to boost competition and consumer choice in the cloud market.

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EU to examine if Apple Ads and Maps subject to tough rules, Apple says no, report Reuters

General

Nov 28, 2025

Apple Ads and Apple Maps have triggered thresholds under the EU’s Digital Markets Act, prompting regulators to assess whether they should be designated as gatekeeper services. Apple argues they should be exempt, saying Apple Ads has a minimal EU market share and does not use cross-service data, while Maps has limited regional usage.

If designated, both services would face strict DMA obligations aimed at curbing Big Tech dominance. The European Commission now has 45 working days to decide, after which Apple would have six months to comply.

Apple maintains its services lack the scale or intermediary power of rivals such as Google, Meta and Waze.

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UFC to make Paramount+ debut on Jan. 24, reports Axios

General

Nov 28, 2025

Sports Marketing

Paramount+ will air its first live UFC event on 24 January, following Paramount Global’s $7.7 billion deal securing U.S. rights for seven years. Pay-per-view costs are being scrapped, with all events included in subscriptions.

The move aims to boost visibility and accessibility for UFC, with 13 live events scheduled for 2026. UFC 324, broadcast from Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena, will open the slate.

The headline bout features Justin Gaethje versus Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett for the interim lightweight title. The event also includes Kayla Harrison defending her women’s bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes.

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Social media users flee X, flock to TikTok and Reddit, reports Axios

General

Nov 28, 2025

Social media use in the U.S. is becoming increasingly fragmented, limiting the ability of brands and public figures to reach broad audiences. Pew research shows YouTube, Facebook and Instagram remain the most widely used platforms, benefiting from their long presence in users’ routines. However, Reddit has grown, especially among 18–29-year-olds, while X has declined.

YouTube dominates across age groups, while TikTok and Snapchat attract most under-30s. Meanwhile, emerging platforms such as Bluesky, Threads and Truth Social remain niche.

WhatsApp is rising, particularly among Asian and Hispanic users. Content from platforms like YouTube and Reddit is increasingly used to train major AI models.

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Trent Patterson becomes CEO of Publicis London, reports Campaign

General

Nov 28, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Publicis London has promoted Trent Patterson to chief executive, while he continues reporting to Charlie Rudd, CEO of Publicis Groupe UK’s Creative Practice. He will lead the management team alongside chief creative officer Noel Bunting, with a focus on agency growth and launching the new “World Class” research initiative next year.

The agency works with major clients including Essity, Electrolux, Marriott, Foster’s and Renault. Rudd praised Patterson as a calm, considerate leader who has helped drive recent success.

Patterson, who joined in 2010 and became COO in 2023, said he is proud to lead the internationally diverse agency into its next chapter.

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Apple contests India's antitrust penalty law with risk of $38 billion fine, filing shows, reports Reuters

General

Nov 27, 2025

Apple is contesting India’s new antitrust penalty rules, which allow fines based on global turnover, arguing they are arbitrary and unconstitutional.

The company says this exposes it to potential penalties of up to $38 billion in an ongoing case alleging abusive conduct in the iOS app market. Apple also warns of unfair retrospective application of the law, citing a recent unrelated CCI decision.

Apple argues penalties should apply only to the revenue of the specific business unit under scrutiny, while the CCI maintains it can legally consider global turnover. The Delhi High Court will hear the challenge on 3 December.

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YouTube, TelevisaUnivision Reach Deal, reports WSJ

General

Nov 26, 2025

TelevisaUnivision and YouTube TV have struck a multi-year deal restoring Univision, UniMás, Galavisión and TUDN to YouTube TV after a two-month blackout caused by a carriage dispute.

The agreement ensures the channels return to both the Base Plan and Spanish Plan, while ViX will also be available via YouTube’s Primetime Channels and expand into Mexico for the first time.

The dispute centred on YouTube TV’s proposal to move TelevisaUnivision networks to a more expensive tier, which the broadcaster called a “Hispanic tax.” TelevisaUnivision says the deal reaffirms the importance of its content to millions of Hispanic viewers.

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Omnicom Closes $13B IPG Deal, Uniting Rivals in Industry-Shaping Acquisition, reports AdWeek

M&A

Nov 26, 2025

Omnicom has completed its $13.5bn all-stock acquisition of Interpublic Group, creating the world’s largest advertising holding company. The combined group, with around $26bn in annual revenue, will be led by John Wren as CEO, with former IPG leaders Philippe Krakowsky and Daryl Simm as co-presidents.

The deal received final approval this week after clearance from U.S. and EU regulators. Omnicom expects $750m in cost synergies, with thousands of job cuts already made at both companies. The merged entity aims to scale data, technology and full-funnel services to compete in a consolidating global market.

However, client conflicts and agency consolidation pose challenges, with some networks expected to be folded or restructured as the new organisation takes shape.

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Meta slams EU's aberrant antitrust demands for data on Facebook, reports Reuters

General

Nov 26, 2025

Meta has appealed to the EU Court of Justice, arguing that European Commission information demands during earlier antitrust investigations were excessively intrusive and disproportionate. The company says the requests swept up sensitive personal material, including family autopsy reports and children’s school documents, far beyond what was necessary.

EU lawyers counter that Meta itself helped shape the search terms and that such document requests are standard practice in competition cases. The Court will rule next year.

Meta was fined €797.7 million last year for tying Facebook Marketplace to Facebook and imposing unfair conditions on rivals.

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EU Parliament pushes for age limits on social media to safeguard minors, reports Reuters

General

Nov 26, 2025

Advertising To Children

The European Parliament has urged the EU to introduce minimum age rules for social media in response to rising youth mental health concerns. It supports banning under-16s from platforms without parental consent and prohibiting access entirely for under-13s. The move follows similar steps in Australia, Denmark and Malaysia.

Lawmakers argue that tech giants have unchecked access to children’s attention, contributing to safety and wellbeing risks. Companies like Meta, Google, TikTok and Snapchat already face lawsuits in the US over alleged harms to young users.

The resolution also calls for banning loot boxes, restricting recommender algorithms for minors and mandating age-appropriate design, though it is not legally binding.

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Walmart Is Exploring Bringing Ads to Sparky, Its New AI Shopping Agent, reports WSJ

General

Nov 25, 2025

Sparky, Walmart’s AI shopping agent, is testing new advertising formats that could shape future monetised chat-based shopping. One experimental format, “Sponsored Prompt,” places advertiser-triggered questions in users’ feeds, prompting Sparky to answer before showing a click-to-buy product ad.

The September test involved brand-led prompts such as energy drink queries, pairing Sparky’s responses with direct purchase links. Although early engagement was low, advertisers are keen to learn how AI agents will influence shopper behaviour.

Walmart is expanding AI across its business, aiming to boost high-margin ad revenue and compete with Amazon’s Rufus, which is already driving significant sales uplift.

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