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Ebiquity Transmit

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Amazon’s Video Ad Push Aims to Turn TVs Into Shopping Carts, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 29, 2024

Amazon has introduced ads to Prime Video in the U.S., with a new ad-free option at $2.99 monthly. This approach follows the industry trend of streaming services incorporating ad tiers to expand their subscriber base and revenue streams.

The service now includes ads within its content, but viewers can avoid these by paying an additional fee. Amazon plans to limit the number of ads, expecting most Prime subscribers to accept this change.

This strategy aims to boost Amazon's revenue, potentially generating $5 billion annually from ad sales and subscription fees. With competitive ad rates, Amazon positions itself as a strong contender in the streaming market, leveraging its extensive audience and e-commerce prowess to attract advertisers.

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TikTok Tests Feature That Could Make All Videos Shoppable, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 29, 2024

TikTok is trialing a feature enabling all posts to offer shoppable links, an extension of its U.S. e-commerce strategy. This technology automatically identifies products in videos, leading viewers to similar items on TikTok Shop, previously limited to select influencers and brands.

The initiative is part of TikTok's ambition to blend social media engagement with seamless shopping experiences, targeting a significant $17.5 billion in U.S. sales. Despite aiding small businesses, the platform has faced criticism for counterfeit goods and intrusive ads.

The test phase of this feature, while expanding shopping access, shows mixed results in matching products, highlighting the need for further refinement in its implementation.

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Publishers Question Related Website Sets, Google's Privacy Sandbox Solution for Cross-Site Tracking, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 29, 2024

Google's Privacy Sandbox, featuring Related Website Sets (RWS), aims to maintain web functionalities without third-party cookies. RWS allows limited cookie use across related domains, aiding publishers with multiple sites. However, its five-domain limit is controversial, considered too restrictive by some and too lenient by others for enabling cross-site tracking.

Critics argue RWS undermines privacy by allowing data sharing across unrelated sites, while publishers find it too restrictive for monetising and tracking audiences effectively. This highlights the difficulty in balancing web functionality and privacy.

The debate on RWS underscores the challenge in developing post-cookie solutions that respect privacy while maintaining essential web services and advertising effectiveness.

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Reddit Advised to Target at Least $5 Billion Value in IPO, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 28, 2024

Reddit Inc. is eyeing an IPO valuation of at least $5 billion, influenced by investor feedback. Despite being valued below this in the private share market, Reddit aims for a mid-single-digit billion valuation, with plans for a potential listing as early as March.

Private trading currently values Reddit between $4.5 and $4.8 billion. This discrepancy with potential IPO valuation reflects the illiquidity of private shares.

The sought-after valuation marks a downturn from Reddit's peak $10 billion valuation in 2021, illustrating the broader tech market's decline. Reddit, known for its role in the meme-stock era, boasts over 70 million daily active users.

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Musk's X aims to hire 100 content moderators in Austin by end of year, reports Reuters

General

Jan 27, 2024

X is establishing a new office in Austin, Texas, aiming to hire 100 content moderators by year-end to combat child abuse content. This move precedes a U.S. Senate hearing on online child exploitation where X's CEO Linda Yaccarino will testify.

Since Elon Musk's acquisition of the platform, X has intensified efforts to enhance content moderation, significantly increasing account suspensions for child sexual exploitation violations from 2.3 million in 2022 to 12.4 million last year.

The Austin office will not only focus on child abuse content but also tackle other harmful content types, expanding X's commitment to improving overall platform safety.

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Google’s Post-cookie Test Results Could Be Skewed By Ad Tech Ids, reports AdAge

General

Jan 26, 2024

Cookie Deprecation

Google's Privacy Sandbox testing for a cookie-free Chrome browser faces challenges from alternative ad IDs using data like IP addresses. This mix of data sources could skew test results, highlighting the industry's debate over balancing user privacy and effective advertising.

Privacy Sandbox advocates for anonymised user groups, contrasting with alternative IDs' detailed data collection. These diverging paths underscore the tension in moving towards a post-cookie web while safeguarding user privacy.

As Google aims to restrict data sharing and phase out cookies, the industry grapples with integrating new privacy-focused tools. The effectiveness of Privacy Sandbox is questioned, with publishers and advertisers seeking a balance between privacy and precision in ad targeting.

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Spotify says Apple's plan to comply with EU regulation farce, reports Reuters

General

Jan 26, 2024

Spotify has labelled Apple's compliance with the EU's Digital Markets Act as "a complete and total farce."

Under the new rules starting in March, Apple will allow alternative app stores on iPhones, but will still charge a "core technology fee" of 50 euro cents per user account per year. Spotify, discontent with the arrangement, faces a 17% commission for using its own in-app payment while staying in the App Store.

Apple contends that over 99% of developers will pay the same or less under the new system. However, the EU's industry chief warned of strong action if Apple's adjustments don't meet the upcoming regulations, underscoring the ongoing dispute over App Store policies.

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Publicis Groupe Invests $326 Million In AI, Including New Tool That Will Transform Its Workflow, reports AdAge

General

Jan 25, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Publicis Groupe is investing $326 million in AI over three years and launching CoreAI, aiming to innovate creative, media, and operations. The AI tool integrates Publicis' extensive consumer data and assets with coding and data from Publicis Sapient.

CoreAI, scheduled for rollout in early 2024, will accelerate workflows, impacting job roles and billing structures in advertising. It's designed to enhance processes, from analysing briefs to real-time campaign adjustments.

Publicis' AI initiative reflects a strategic shift towards technology-driven operations. This move, fuelled by past investments in data and tech, aligns with the company's growth trajectory and vision for the future of the advertising industry.

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First tech platform breaks ranks to support kids online safety bill, reports Politico

General

Jan 25, 2024

Snap, breaking from its trade group NetChoice, supports the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) to enhance child protection on social media. This move aligns with Snap's CEO's upcoming testimony before the Senate, contrasting with other tech giants like Meta, TikTok, and X, who haven't publicly endorsed KOSA.

Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn praised Snap's support, stressing the act's necessity for child safety. Unlike Meta, which hasn't formally backed KOSA, Snap's alignment with KOSA's principles signifies a significant stance within the tech sector.

Snap's endorsement could influence other platforms, as it already implements KOSA-like safety measures for teens. The Senate hearing may increase focus on child safety across the industry.

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Comcast Earnings For CY2023 Show +0.1% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +206.7% YoY

+ 0% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Jan 25, 2024

Bloomberg reports:

Comcast Corp. reported a 2.3% increase in fourth-quarter revenue to $31.3 billion, with adjusted earnings per share rising to 84 cents. Despite losing some broadband and TV customers, Comcast saw a rise in average revenue per user due to customers opting for higher-priced, high-speed services.

The company's dividend increased to $1.24 a share for 2024, and the share buyback program expanded to $15 billion. While Comcast added 310,000 mobile phone customers, this was below analysts' predictions.

Comcast's Peacock streaming service gained 3 million subscribers, reaching 31 million. The company's film studio and theme parks also contributed positively to its financial performance.

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Amazon Prime Video Offers Incentives For Ad Tier After Lackluster Initial Demand, reports AdAge

General

Jan 25, 2024

Amazon Prime Video's ad launch received lukewarm interest from advertisers. The platform's high anticipation among media buyers was offset by poor timing, launching outside the traditional upfront marketplace and during a weak advertising market.

To entice advertisers, Amazon offered incentives such as bonus media and minimal spending commitments. Despite these efforts, Amazon faced challenges in persuading major brands to invest, as it deviated from typical digital advertising flexibility.

Amazon's entry into streaming ads signifies a significant shift. With its vast audience and established market presence, Amazon could reshape streaming advertising norms, potentially leading to more competitive pricing and impacting other streaming services' strategies.

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FTC Launches Probe of Big Tech’s AI Investments, reports WSJ

General

Jan 25, 2024

The FTC is investigating the competitive impact of major tech companies' artificial intelligence (AI) investments, targeting firms like Microsoft, Amazon and Alphabet.

Chair Lina Khan of the FTC emphasises scrutinising major tech firms' AI investments and partnerships, fearing they may hinder competitive innovation. The agency's study will analyse these companies' strategic decisions and market dynamics in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

The FTC's inquiry requests details on AI investments from these tech giants, seeking to understand their influence on market competition. Companies like Google and Microsoft have responded, affirming their commitment to an open AI market and cooperation with the investigation.

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Publicis Groupe debuts new CoreAI platform and €300 million AI investment, reports Digiday

General

Jan 25, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Publicis Groupe announces a significant €300 million investment in AI, launching CoreAI, an intelligent system enhancing capabilities across the company.

The investment, equally divided between human resources and technological infrastructure, aligns with Publicis' strategic direction, already reflecting positively on its stock price and organic growth. CoreAI, integrating data from various Publicis entities and third-party AI services, focuses on five key operational areas, promising enhanced data integrity and privacy-compliant solutions.

Publicis' commitment to AI innovation positions it as a competitive force in the industry, although its long-term impact remains contingent on effective implementation and evolving market dynamics.

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Microsoft lays off 1,900 Activision Blizzard and Xbox employees, reports The Verge

General

Jan 25, 2024

Microsoft is reducing its gaming workforce by 1,900 roles across Activision Blizzard, Xbox, and ZeniMax, affecting about 8% of its 22,000-strong gaming division.

This strategic reshaping follows the recent integration of Activision, Blizzard, and King teams into Microsoft. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer emphasized the importance of a sustainable cost structure to support growth and acknowledged the contributions of affected employees.

The restructuring includes leadership changes at Blizzard with the departure of President Mike Ybarra and Chief Design Officer Allen Adham. Additionally, a survival game project under Blizzard has been canceled, with resources redirected to new development projects.

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Paramount CEO announces layoffs as cost pressures, take-private talks build, reports CNBC

General

Jan 25, 2024

Paramount CEO Bob Bakish has announced staff layoffs, emphasizing the company's commitment to evolving into a leaner organization with a focus on earnings growth.

This strategy involves a delicate balance between enhancing revenue and meticulous cost management, necessitating global workforce reductions and a decrease in international content spending. Amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty, industry-wide layoffs, and potential acquisition discussions, Bakish underscores the importance of focusing on factors within the company's control, notably efficient execution and adaptability to the shifting industry landscape.

Further details on the company's 2024 strategy are anticipated during the upcoming quarterly earnings report at the end of February.

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Nielsen Plans Offshoring And Layoffs As New Network Deals Pressure Revenue, reports AdAge

General

Jan 24, 2024

Nielsen plans more offshoring to countries like India and Poland, likely leading to additional layoffs. This strategy is part of coping with reduced revenue from new U.S. TV network contracts and existing financial debts, following an earlier 9% workforce reduction.

The company faces speculation of divesting non-core assets amid financial strain. Nielsen's network contracts are also implicated in an antitrust counterclaim by TVision, highlighting competitive concerns in the TV measurement industry.

Nielsen's CEO acknowledges revenue challenges but notes a 7% increase in earnings due to cost-cutting measures. The company's focus on "Global Capability Centers" for innovation reflects a strategic shift in workforce management amid industry transformations.

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Apple Plans New Fees and Restrictions for Downloads Outside App Store, reports WSJ

General

Jan 24, 2024

Apple, in response to a new European law, is set to permit iPhone app downloads outside its App Store. This shift, exclusive to Europe, introduces new fees and oversight measures for sideloaded apps, testing the law's impact on Apple's app ecosystem control.

Tech giants like Meta, Spotify, and Microsoft are preparing for these changes. Meta explores direct app downloads from Facebook ads, Spotify from its website, and Microsoft considers a third-party game store, aiming to leverage the European market's new openness.

The European law targets Apple's tight grip on app downloads, requiring fair conditions. Apple's plan includes a 27% commission on alternate payment systems, potentially discouraging sideloading and maintaining its competitive edge in the app market.

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TikTok pilots 30-minute video uploads for select users, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jan 24, 2024

TikTok is testing 30-minute video uploads in its beta app. This extended length may introduce more ad placement opportunities, especially mid-roll ads, which typically achieve higher completion and engagement rates.

The update was first noticed by social media consultant Matt Navarra, who posted a screenshot on Threads. TikTok's move mirrors its Chinese counterpart, Douyin, which successfully expanded to 30-minute videos in 2022.

TikTok has progressively increased its video duration limits over the years, from 15 seconds in 2018 to 15 minutes in 2023. The new 30-minute format marks a significant leap, reflecting the platform's evolving content strategy.

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Google expands conversational generative AI tools for advertisers powered by Gemini, reports Digiday

General

Jan 24, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Google expands its Gemini AI for search advertising in the US and UK, allowing advertisers to create AI-generated campaigns using a website URL. Despite concerns over consumer trust and misinformation, GenAI ads will feature invisible Google watermarks for identification.

Skepticism about GenAI's reliability in tackling misinformation arises, especially with AI-generated content found in Google News searches. This underscores the challenge of maintaining information accuracy amidst AI adoption.

Google's integration of Gemini AI into advertising and browser features signifies a major shift in digital marketing. Startups like Typeface see opportunities in this trend, focusing on AI-generated content for comprehensive marketing campaigns.

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Florida’s GOP-controlled House passes strict social media restrictions for minors, reports Politico

General

Jan 24, 2024

Advertising To Children

Florida's House has approved a bill restricting under-16s from most social media platforms, focusing on youth mental health. The bill, awaiting Senate approval, requires age verification and could lead to the closure of underage accounts, but excludes certain types of websites.

Details of the bill remain unclear, causing confusion about its scope. Critics argue it infringes on parental rights and could harm minors' social and financial online engagement.

Additionally, the House passed legislation limiting minors' access to adult content websites, aligning with national trends for online child safety. These bills, still pending Senate review, may face legal challenges over constitutional concerns and practical implementation.

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Netflix Earnings For CY2023 Show +6.7% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +20.4% YoY

+ 7% YoY Opinions

Earnings

Jan 23, 2024

Bloomberg reports:

Netflix's fourth quarter saw exceptional growth with 13.1 million new subscribers, far exceeding the predicted 8.91 million. This record growth, particularly strong in Europe, Middle East, and Africa, boosted sales to $8.83 billion and led to a notable stock price increase.

The company rebounded from a difficult 2022 through strategies like password sharing restrictions and introducing an ad-supported tier, contrasting with the struggles of other Hollywood streaming services. Netflix's hit shows contributed significantly to this success.

Despite the impressive growth, Netflix anticipates a slowdown in early 2024, with projected subscriber additions lower than the last quarter of 2023. The company remains focused on maintaining revenue growth through various strategies including price increases.

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Havas Agencies Could Be Stripped of B Corp Certification Due to Shell Account Win, reports Adweek

General

Jan 23, 2024

Agency Management

Four Havas agencies risk losing their B Corp certification after Havas won Shell's media account, sparking controversy due to Shell's environmental impact.

Clean Creatives and other activists argue that supporting fossil fuel companies contradicts the B Corp ethos. B Lab Global is investigating Havas' relationship with Shell, examining potential breaches of B Corp rules, misrepresentation during certification, and violation of community values.

Outcomes could range from certification revocation to maintaining the status quo, and B Lab Global emphasizes the importance of due process, urging patience during the investigation.

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Podcast networks are testing AI tools for faster translation and ad sales, reports Digiday

General

Jan 23, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Podcast networks, including Acast, iHeartMedia, and Spotify, are utilising generative AI to expand client outreach and translate shows into different languages. iHeartMedia's AI initiative focuses on translating its podcast library to cater to international audiences, with both AI-generated and original host voices.

iHeartMedia aims to release shows translated into multiple languages, while Spotify experiments with AI voice translations for podcasts. These efforts highlight the growing role of AI in bridging language gaps in the podcast industry.

Despite AI's expanding use in podcasting, industry leaders emphasise its role as a supportive tool, not a replacement for human talent, particularly hosts. This approach balances AI's technological advantages with the value of human creativity.

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Netflix Expects to Fully Phase Out Cheapest No-Ads Plan, reports Variety

General

Jan 23, 2024

Netflix is phasing out its no-ads Basic plan, initially in Canada and the U.K. in Q2 2024, promoting its ad-supported option instead.

The ad plan, accounting for 40% of new sign-ups in markets where launched, grew by 70% quarter-over-quarter, surpassing 23 million active users. Netflix's co-CEO Greg Peters emphasises the ad tier's advantages: more features and a lower price compared to the Basic plan.

In 2023, Netflix ceased offering the Basic plan to new subscribers in several markets, including the U.S. The ad-supported tier, launched at a lower price, is positioned as a more attractive option. Netflix plans future price increases to enhance and grow the service.

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Netflix to stream WWE’s Raw starting next year in its biggest jump into live entertainment, reports CNBC

General

Jan 23, 2024

Netflix has announced a landmark 10-year deal, valued over $5 billion, to stream WWE's "Raw," marking its initial venture into live sports. This global agreement positions Netflix as the exclusive platform for "Raw" in major regions and the home for all WWE content internationally.

The deal, potentially transformative for Netflix's content strategy, signifies a shift towards live programming, a space Netflix has cautiously approached until now.

This move aligns with Netflix's broader strategy to innovate and adapt, previously demonstrated by its adoption of advertising and measures against subscription sharing, reflecting its willingness to evolve in the streaming industry's competitive landscape.

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Apple bids to throw out $1 bln UK lawsuit over app store fees, reports Reuters

General

Jan 23, 2024

Apple is contesting a significant lawsuit in London, filed on behalf of over 1,500 app developers, challenging the legality of the App Store's high fees. The $1 billion claim accuses Apple of imposing unfair commissions of up to 30% on app and content purchases, arguing this is an abuse of market dominance.

Leading the lawsuit, Sean Ennis argues Apple's practices overcharge UK-based developers. Apple counters that most developers pay no commission and requests the case's dismissal, stating it only applies to a minority involved with the UK App Store.

Simultaneously, Apple faces other UK lawsuits over App Store commissions and alleged iPhone battery defects, with trials anticipated by 2025.

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Fox renews multiyear measurement deal with Nielsen, reports Axios

General

Jan 23, 2024

Nielsen has secured a pivotal multiyear measurement agreement with Fox Corp., solidifying its role in viewership analytics for major TV networks and streamers.

Despite the industry's exploration of alternative measurement options, Nielsen's enduring relevance is underscored by this deal, which encompasses Fox's extensive live and broadcast content. However, challenges persist, as evidenced by industry skepticism towards Nielsen's impartiality and the pressure from new market entrants amid the streaming shift.

Nevertheless, Nielsen's recent renewals, including with NBCUniversal and other networks, affirm its integral position, even as it navigates the evolving dynamics of TV ratings standards and the industry's gradual shift towards big data-driven measurement models.

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Netflix is preparing investors and users for more price hikes in 2024, reports CNBC

General

Jan 23, 2024

In its recent shareholder letter, Netflix hinted at future price increases, aligning them with continued investment and enhancement of the platform.

Despite launching an advertising tier and clamping down on password sharing, the majority of Netflix's over 260 million global subscribers seem comfortable with current pricing, evidenced by a record increase in subscribers in the fourth quarter.

The forthcoming introduction of WWE's "Raw" in 2025, representing Netflix's significant venture into live entertainment, alongside plans to upscale content investment, positions the company to potentially justify future price hikes, especially in the face of pricier competitors like a direct-to-consumer ESPN by Disney.

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Ad Holding Company S4 Capital Has a Pretty Sober Outlook for This Year, reports WSJ

General

Jan 22, 2024

S4 Capital, a digital advertising group, expects a challenging 2024 due to tough economic conditions and cautious client spending. Despite meeting revised Q4 expectations, it anticipates a 4% decline in like-for-like net revenue for 2023, a shift from its initial growth forecast.

In response to market pressures, S4 Capital reduced its workforce by 9% to match client demand, highlighting the impact of slower spending in the technology sector. This cautious approach contrasts with more optimistic predictions from competitors.

Analysts at Citi Research acknowledge S4's realistic outlook, as the company focuses on medium-term growth amidst a global ad spending slowdown, projected at 5.3% for 2024.

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Fox Ad Chief Marianne Gambelli Retires, reports AdAge

General

Jan 22, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Marianne Gambelli is retiring as Fox's president of advertising, with her role to be filled by Jeff Collins. Having led Fox's ad division for over 40 years, Gambelli played a key role during a transformative period in the industry.

Gambelli's career spanned over two decades at NBCUniversal and roles at Horizon Media and Fox News Media before leading Fox's advertising. Her retirement marks the end of an influential career in TV advertising.

Collins, previously at Fox News Media, will now oversee ad sales for all Fox assets. He brings extensive experience from Viant Technology and Warner Media. Lachlan Murdoch, Fox's CEO, commended Gambelli's contributions and expressed confidence in Collins's leadership.

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GroupM North America Names New CEO, reports AdAge

General

Jan 22, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Sharb Farjami has been appointed as the new CEO of WPP’s GroupM North America, following Kirk McDonald's departure last year. Farjami, previously CEO of Wavemaker North America, brings extensive experience and is commended for his collaborative leadership style.

In his recent role at Wavemaker, Farjami led the agency to significant business growth, including a major contract with Merlin Entertainments. His focus in the new position is to innovate and enhance client outcomes at GroupM.

Adam Gerhart, Mindshare Global's CEO, filled the interim CEO role at GroupM North America after McDonald's exit. McDonald's future plans remain undisclosed as Farjami steps into his new leadership role.

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TikTok cuts jobs as tech layoffs continue to mount, reports NPR

General

Jan 22, 2024

TikTok is laying off about 60 employees, mainly in sales and advertising, as part of a reorganisation. The layoffs affect various locations, including Los Angeles, New York, and Austin, and a townhall meeting is planned to address these changes.

The tech industry is witnessing widespread job cuts, with over 10,000 positions lost in 2024, following 2023's significant job reductions. Companies like Google and Amazon have also downsized, focusing on generative AI development.

These layoffs mirror industry shifts towards AI, addressing pandemic-induced overstaffing, and aiming for higher profitability. Twitch, owned by Amazon, also recently cut a third of its staff due to conservative growth projections.

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Meta to let EU users deny cross-site tracking as Digital Markets Act bites, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 22, 2024

Meta is adapting its EU services to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), impacting platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The DMA demands explicit consent for data processing and restricts data sharing across Meta's services. Users will soon receive options to separate data usage between these platforms.

The changes offer data separation but may limit features, such as communication on Messenger. This aligns with DMA's consent rules while maintaining service functionality, requiring careful design to ensure user freedom in consent.

The DMA enforces strict consent for data processing, with Meta's response and Google's similar measures under scrutiny. These changes reflect a significant shift in digital platform operations and data handling in the EU.

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Paramount Won’t Return to TV’s Upfront Week in New York, reports Variety

General

Jan 22, 2024

Paramount Global is opting for a more personalised approach to its "upfront" sales market, planning individual meetings with advertisers in major cities rather than traditional grand events. This strategy, initiated in response to positive feedback, aims to build deeper connections with clients.

In the past, Paramount's upfronts were notable for their grandeur, with memorable events at Carnegie Hall. However, John Halley, head of ad sales, sees greater value in tailored interactions, focusing on precise ad targeting and data analysis.

As traditional ad revenues decline and streaming gains prominence, Paramount's shift contrasts with competitors like Warner Bros. Discovery, who are maintaining large-scale upfront presentations.

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Some publishers are starting to see revenue lift from alternative IDs, reports Digiday

General

Jan 22, 2024

User Identifiers

Publishers are starting to see tangible revenue impacts from alternative identifiers to third-party cookies.

In tests with Unified ID 2.0, Salon, Snopes, and TV Tropes observed a notable increase in CPMs, indicating a potential shift towards these cookie replacements. Similarly, Unwind Media reported a significant CPM rise when deterministic IDs were present, highlighting a growing reliance on such identifiers.

However, there's still a mix of optimism and caution as publishers navigate this transitional phase, with many keeping a close watch on various identifiers and their real-world impacts on revenue amidst the evolving digital advertising landscape.

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EU Commission seeks feedback on Apple offer to open up tap-and-go tech to rivals, reports Reuters

General

Jan 19, 2024

The European Commission is soliciting feedback on Apple's proposed solutions to EU antitrust charges concerning its NFC (Near-Field Communication) technology, used for mobile payments.

Apple was accused of restricting rivals from developing alternate iOS payment options, competing with Apple Pay and Wallet apps. To rectify this, Apple has pledged to allow third-party developers in the European Economic Area (EEA) to create independent NFC contactless payment apps.

This move would let consumers choose between Apple's services or other NFC-enabled apps for payments. The proposed changes, including additional features like default app selection and FaceID access, are subject to feedback from rivals and customers. The implementation will be overseen by a trustee reporting to the Commission.

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Roku Wants To Turn Its Home Screen Into An Ad Hub, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 18, 2024

Roku is expanding its advertising efforts by incorporating interactive and shoppable ads into its home screen, capitalizing on viewers' browsing habits before they choose a streaming option.

The move aims to transform TV into a performance channel, with Roku City evolving into an advertising hub offering brands opportunities for retargeting and viewer engagement. However, standardizing these innovative ad formats poses a challenge, prompting the creation of a working group by GroupM to develop benchmarks.

Meanwhile, Roku is enhancing its measurement strategies by partnering with major CTV measurement vendors, aiming to link ad exposures more directly to performance outcomes.

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U.K. Marketers Gear Up for 2024 Budget Boost, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 18, 2024

UK marketers are displaying cautious optimism for 2024, with marketing budgets experiencing their most significant rise since 2014, as indicated by the IPA's Bellwether report. Despite political uncertainty and inflation, there's a proactive stance towards long-term planning rather than cost-cutting.

Key areas of focus include events and direct marketing, driving marketing budget growth at the end of 2023. The upbeat initial budget setting is noted across various marketing subcategories, anticipating a robust year ahead.

Companies are more positive about their growth compared to the broader industry outlook. In response to challenging trading conditions, some are considering competitive pricing to capture market share, highlighting a strategic balance in navigating economic hurdles.

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EU sends information request to 17 tech firms including Amazon, Apple and Meta, reports Reuters

General

Jan 18, 2024

The European Commission has issued information requests to 17 major tech companies under the Digital Services Act (DSA).

These companies, including Amazon, Apple, Meta, Alphabet, Microsoft, and TikTok, are considered Very Large Online Platforms and search engines. The EU seeks details on their measures to provide data access to researchers for upcoming elections, and actions against illegal content and goods online.

Implemented in November 2023, the DSA mandates these platforms to intensify efforts in combating illegal online content and public security risks. This move follows the Commission's first DSA investigation in December 2023 into a social media company for suspected non-compliance.

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EU says music streaming platforms must pay artists more, reports Engadget

General

Jan 18, 2024

Audio Advertising

The European Parliament proposes new regulations for fair artist payments by streaming services, focusing on transparency in algorithmic suggestions. This aims to ensure smaller artists receive fair compensation, countering current practices that favour visibility over fair pay.

MEPs are concerned about the bias in royalty distribution favouring major labels and artists, which limits exposure for diverse genres. They advocate for transparent algorithm usage to prioritise fair recognition and remuneration for European authors.

The proposed regulations include stricter AI usage oversight in streaming. While implementation may take time, similar concerns are being addressed in the UK. These changes are crucial, given streaming's dominant role in the music industry's revenue.

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Google CEO tells employees to expect more job cuts this year, reports The Verge

General

Jan 18, 2024

Google has recently laid off over a thousand employees across various departments, as announced by CEO Sundar Pichai. In an internal memo, Pichai highlighted the necessity of these layoffs for investing in key priorities, leading to reorganizations in multiple areas.

The layoffs have impacted departments such as hardware, ad sales, search, and YouTube. Pichai referenced last year's larger-scale job cuts, acknowledging the challenges of seeing colleagues affected.

Pichai confirmed that further reductions are anticipated as part of Google's effort to simplify execution and increase velocity. He advised that some teams will make additional resource decisions throughout the year, potentially impacting more roles.

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Iowa sues TikTok alleging parents misled about inappropriate content, reports Reuters

General

Jan 18, 2024

Iowa's Attorney General, Brenna Bird, has sued TikTok and its parent company ByteDance, accusing them of misleading parents about children's exposure to inappropriate content.

The lawsuit, filed in Polk County state court, claims TikTok downplays the presence of content related to drugs, nudity, alcohol, and profanity on its app, highlighting concerns over the safety of social media content for minors.

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Google's Gen-AI Search Is Powering 84% of Queries, Study Finds, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 18, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Google's Search Generative Experience (SGE) now powers 84% of queries, significantly affecting search traffic for brands and publishers. This AI-driven change, analysed by BrightEdge across various sectors, necessitates new SEO strategies focused on content relevance and integrated business operations.

SGE, in trial phases in select regions, transforms search results, offering two interactive formats for enhanced user engagement. This evolution in search dynamics forces brands to adapt their digital presence and SEO techniques to maintain visibility and traffic.

As SGE reshapes search landscapes, brands face challenges in managing online presence. The response includes enriching site content and diversifying marketing across platforms like TikTok and YouTube, reflecting a shift in digital strategy and audience reach.

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Early Tests Of Cookieless Chrome Ads Are Encouraging, But Don’t Get Too Excited, reports AdExchanger

General

Jan 18, 2024

Cookie Deprecation

In Google Chrome's initial phase of removing third-party cookies, early observations show a 30% drop in CPMs for cookieless traffic, as reported by Raptive. Despite this decrease, the results are more favorable than those on Safari, indicating potential strategies for adapting to a post-cookie environment.

Raptive’s findings highlight the effectiveness of alternative IDs on Chrome, suggesting possible approaches to mitigate revenue impacts from cookie removal. This highlights the importance of exploring various identifiers to maintain effective targeting and monetisation.

As cookie deprecation continues, the focus shifts to comprehensive testing and analysis. The industry must navigate these changes, balancing optimism with realistic expectations to develop robust, privacy-compliant advertising solutions in a cookieless future.

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Marketers Shift to IP Address Band-Aids Amid Cookie Deprecation, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 18, 2024

Cookie Deprecation

As Google Chrome phases out third-party cookies by 2024, marketers are increasingly turning to IP addresses and mobile identifiers as temporary alternatives.

These options, familiar but not privacy-centric, are being used for targeting on streaming TV and cross-device tracking. However, they lack the precision of cookies and pose privacy concerns, as they cannot be reset by users and are less transparent.

Google and Apple are taking steps to limit the use of IP addresses due to these privacy issues. The advertising industry must adapt by exploring new measurement methods like mixed media modelling, shifting focus away from precise ad-to-conversion tracking to more generalised, privacy-conscious approaches.

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Apple excludes video and news partners from new App Store rules around external payments, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 18, 2024

Apple updated its App Store policies, allowing developers to direct users to external payment methods within apps. This change complies with a court order but imposes strict guidelines, including an application process and conditions on app eligibility for external links.

Developers must apply for the StoreKit External Purchase Link Entitlement, ensuring their websites meet Apple's standards without mimicking its payment system. Links are restricted to a single app page, and Apple will charge a 27% commission on transactions through these links.

The new policy, criticised for its complex process and high commission, has faced backlash from companies like Epic Games and Spotify, who see it as only partially complying with the court's mandate.

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Nelson Peltz Calls for Disney to Target Netflix-Like Streaming Margins, reports WSJ

General

Jan 18, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Nelson Peltz, an activist investor, has nominated himself and Jay Rasulo, a former Disney finance chief, to the board of Disney through his Trian Fund Management.

This move is part of a proxy battle aimed at influencing Disney's strategic decisions. Trian, in its recent filing, has advocated for Disney to achieve streaming margins between 15% to 20%, similar to Netflix's performance.

Additionally, Trian is urging Disney to focus on effective CEO succession planning and align management compensation more closely with the company's overall performance. Disney, however, has not supported these nominations, instead proposing its own set of directors for the board.

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French data watchdog imposes 10 mln euro fine on Yahoo! over cookie policy, reports Reuters

General

Jan 18, 2024

The French data authority, CNIL, has fined Yahoo! 10 million euros for breaching cookie consent regulations on its main website and email client.

Users who declined cookies on Yahoo!'s website still found around 20 advertising-related cookies on their devices. Additionally, Yahoo! email users couldn't withdraw cookie consent without losing access to the email service.

Yahoo EMEA Ltd., the responsible Ireland-based subsidiary, is contemplating its response to the penalty. This action by CNIL highlights the increasing scrutiny and enforcement of data privacy laws, especially concerning user consent and the use of tracking technologies like cookies.

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Reddit seeks to launch IPO in March, reports Reuters

General

Jan 18, 2024

Reddit is set to launch its IPO in March, following a confidential filing in December 2021.

With a $10 billion valuation from 2021, it plans to offer about 10% of its shares, marking the first major social media IPO since Pinterest in 2019. Despite not yet turning a profit, Reddit anticipates over $800 million in ad revenue in 2023.

The IPO will test investor sentiment, especially among Reddit users known for driving "meme" stock surges. Reddit's decision to charge for API access has sparked user concerns, but the IPO arrives amid a general rebound in social media stocks, offering a potentially favourable market environment.

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Havas hires first CEO for its global CX Network, reports AdAge

General

Jan 18, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Havas has appointed David Shulman, former VMLY&R executive, as CEO of its global CX network, overseeing 1,800 employees. Shulman's appointment aligns with Havas' strategy under global CEO Donna Murphy to enhance integration across its agencies.

The role is pivotal in integrating Havas' customer experience capabilities and various business units, strengthening the network's cohesion and efficiency. Shulman's experience in leadership roles positions him to effectively steer this consolidation.

Shulman's focus includes leveraging AI in advertising and customer experience to gain deeper consumer insights. His primary goals are to define a unified vision for Havas' CX network and to assess and develop its talent and capabilities for future growth.

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Meta’s Sheryl Sandberg to Leave Board After 12 Years, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 18, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Sheryl Sandberg, former Chief Operating Officer of Meta Platforms Inc., has announced she will step down from the company's board later this year. This move marks her departure from the last official role at the company she helped evolve from an internet startup into a digital advertising leader.

In a Facebook post, Sandberg expressed gratitude and reminisced about her journey with Meta. She plans to continue supporting the company as an adviser after leaving the board in May.

Sandberg, who left her COO position in 2022, had a significant impact on Meta (formerly Facebook) since joining from Google. Her departure signifies the end of a pivotal era for the company.

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As cookies crumble, M&A execs seek viable alternatives, reports Digiday

M&A

Jan 18, 2024

Cookie Deprecation

The decline of third-party cookies is set to disrupt the ad industry, potentially leading to mergers or shutdowns for some companies. Google's move to phase them out in Chrome has hastened this transition, offering opportunities for innovation and posing significant challenges for others.

In anticipation, companies are eyeing acquisitions, with LiveRamp's recent purchase of Habu as a prime example. The landscape is ripe for mergers and acquisitions, especially among publicly listed ad tech firms.

The post-cookie era presents numerous challenges for ad tech, from alternative IDs to contextual advertising. Strategic acquisitions by big players are expected, with private equity investors also playing a significant role in this evolving market.

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The Trade Desk Announces Changes on Senior Leadership Team

General

Jan 17, 2024

Leadership Transitions

The Trade Desk announces significant leadership changes to drive global growth. Tim Sims becomes Chief Commercial Officer, managing global client services and inventory, while Jed Dederick is promoted to Chief Revenue Officer, tasked with boosting global revenue. CEO Jeff Green emphasises these roles are key to sustaining the company's growth.

Sims, a long-standing team member, will unify commercial teams to adapt to the rapidly evolving advertising industry. Dederick, with extensive experience at the company, aims to expand data-driven advertising partnerships worldwide.

These strategic appointments align with The Trade Desk's objective to maintain its leadership in the advertising technology sector amid increasing demand for data-centric advertising solutions.

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Data platform LiveRamp buys marketing startup Habu for $200 million, reports Reuters

M&A

Jan 17, 2024

User Identifiers

LiveRamp Holdings has announced the acquisition of marketing data startup Habu for $200 million, paid in cash and stock.

The merger aims to enhance data sharing capabilities for clients like Walmart and PepsiCo, leveraging Habu's expertise in "clean rooms" for data privacy in advertising. LiveRamp's CEO Scott Howe envisions integrating Habu's user-friendly technology across their broader client base to simplify data utilization.

Expected to finalize in the March quarter, the acquisition positions LiveRamp to bolster its market presence, with Habu projected to contribute around $18 million in revenue by fiscal 2025.

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EU calls for laws to force greater algorithmic transparency from music-streaming platforms, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 17, 2024

Audio Advertising

The European Parliament is pushing for new music streaming rules to enhance fairness and transparency. Proposed legislation would require platforms like Spotify to reveal their recommendation algorithms and label AI-generated music. This initiative, overwhelmingly supported by MEPs, aims to improve visibility for European artists, potentially through set quotas.

The bill also intends to make streaming algorithms transparent to prevent unfair practices and ensure all artists receive fair streaming revenue. This mirrors global trends for equitable artist compensation, like in Uruguay and France.

The proposal has met resistance from industry groups who argue that music streaming already promotes diversity and discovery. The European Parliament's efforts highlight the need for balancing artists' rights with industry dynamics.

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Google Plots Product Overhaul for EU’s Digital Dominance Rules, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 17, 2024

Google is adapting its services in Europe, including changes to search results and data consent processes, in response to the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). These changes aim to enhance competition and choice for online shoppers in the EU.

However, Google has raised concerns about the DMA's potential to limit choices for European users and businesses, highlighting the complexity of these regulatory adjustments.

The DMA, effective from March 7, targets major digital platforms like Google Search and Apple's Safari, enforcing rules against favouring their own services and restricting data practices to promote a fairer digital market in the EU.

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Apple to Face US Antitrust Lawsuit as Soon as March, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 17, 2024

The U.S. Justice Department is preparing to sue Apple Inc. over antitrust violations, focusing on alleged restrictions that limit competition from rivals. The lawsuit, part of the Biden administration's tech industry crackdown, could be filed as early as March.

This development follows the Supreme Court's refusal to hear Apple's appeal in a separate antitrust case, which had mixed outcomes regarding Apple's App Store practices. The Department's decision was influenced by this case and ongoing regulatory changes in Europe.

Reacting to legal pressures, Apple plans to allow alternative App Store payment systems but will impose a 27% fee, a move criticised by companies like Epic Games for stifling competitive pricing.

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New CNN Boss Shakes Up News Operations, Explores Digital Subscription Model, reports WSJ

General

Jan 17, 2024

News Publishing

Mark Thompson, CNN's new CEO, aims to revamp the network's digital strategy, focusing on paid mobile video content. He's restructuring CNN’s operations to better integrate its TV, streaming, and digital platforms, considering monetisation through subscriptions.

Thompson's plan includes optimising news delivery for mobile in a vertical format to appeal to younger users. He believes in CNN's potential to offer a unique, high-quality product that viewers would pay for, similar to strategies he employed at the New York Times.

Facing challenges akin to the declining print media, Thompson is exploring direct-to-consumer relationships at CNN, potentially leading to innovative subscription models amidst the evolving digital landscape.

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Children on Instagram and Facebook Were Frequent Targets of Sexual Harassment, State Says, reports WSJ

General

Jan 17, 2024

An internal Meta Platforms report revealed that 100,000 minors on Instagram and Facebook encounter sexually abusive content daily. New Mexico's lawsuit claims Meta's platforms recommend sexual content to minors and connect them with predators, highlighting issues with the "People You May Know" algorithm.

Meta's employees criticised the algorithm for facilitating inappropriate adult-minor interactions. The company, however, has not commented on these specific allegations, emphasising its commitment to user safety and enforcement tools.

Internal discussions revealed Instagram's higher incidence of "sex talk" with minors. Despite this knowledge, Meta's actions to prevent adult solicitation of children were delayed and limited, with New Mexico criticising the company's approach as ineffective.

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Mother whose child died in TikTok challenge urges US court to revive lawsuit, reports Reuters

General

Jan 17, 2024

A U.S. court is evaluating if TikTok can be sued over a girl's death linked to a dangerous challenge promoted on the platform. The focus is on whether Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, protecting platforms from user content liability, applies when algorithms recommend such content.

Tawainna Anderson's lawsuit contends TikTok's algorithm actively suggested harmful content to her daughter. In contrast, TikTok relies on Section 230 for defense, indicating a ruling against them could impact the broader digital platform landscape.

This case forms part of a larger scrutiny facing social media platforms, with growing concerns over their influence on children's health and safety.

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Google releases AI multisearch feature in US, reports Reuters

General

Jan 17, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Google has launched an AI-powered multisearch feature in the U.S., enabling users to combine image and text searches on their mobile phones. This innovative search tool, available on Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S24 series, simplifies the search process without app switching, starting January 31.

Unveiled at Samsung's Unpacked event, multisearch reflects Google's focus on enhancing its primary revenue source, the online search market. Users can access this feature via the lens camera icon in the Google app on Android and iOS.

Amid competition with Microsoft in generative AI, Google's multisearch demonstrates its commitment to integrating AI into user-friendly search technologies.

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Samsung Bets on Google-Powered AI Features in Smartphone Revamp, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 17, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Samsung Electronics Co. is enhancing its Galaxy smartphones with AI features, challenging Apple's iPhone. The Galaxy S24 series, unveiled at the Unpacked conference, includes AI capabilities like live translation and photo editing. This strategic move integrates AI deeply into the smartphone user experience.

The new Galaxy S24 models boast slimmer bezels and brighter displays, with the premium S24 Ultra featuring a titanium frame. These improvements aim to boost Samsung's competitiveness in the smartphone market.

Facing a slump in market share, Samsung's AI-focused strategy positions it ahead of Apple's expected AI updates. The launch of the S24 series marks a pivotal moment for Samsung in leveraging AI technology to regain market leadership.

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DSPs prepare for heavy lifting within Privacy Sandbox, reports Digiday

General

Jan 17, 2024

Cookie Deprecation

Since January 4, Google Chrome has begun phasing out third-party cookies, impacting digital advertising revenue. Early findings show uncookied users bring in less revenue, but investments in new technologies like Privacy Sandbox may mitigate this.

A study reveals 56% of U.S. marketers are preparing for a cookieless future, yet many lack knowledge of essential tools. Demand-side platforms face significant challenges in adapting to this change.

To cope with these changes, DSPs are investing in development to create separate tools for cookieless browsing, illustrating the industry's effort to maintain effective ad targeting in a changing digital landscape.

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Microsoft’s Nadella Wants Stability at OpenAI, Not More Control, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 16, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasised his contentment with the governance and stability of OpenAI, despite its nonprofit structure. In an interview, Nadella expressed comfort with OpenAI's organisational form and stressed that Microsoft desires stability rather than control.

Microsoft, having invested $13 billion in OpenAI, is its largest investor and has integrated OpenAI technology into its product line, including ChatGPT. Nadella described ChatGPT as a relatable AI product, signifying Microsoft's commitment to harnessing AI advancements.

Despite this investment, Nadella maintains that Microsoft is not overly dependent on OpenAI. He highlighted Microsoft's own AI research and its crucial role in providing technology for OpenAI's products, ensuring control over Microsoft's AI future.

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India puts tech firms on notice over deepfakes inaction, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 16, 2024

India is warning tech companies to actively counter deepfake videos or face potential bans. This follows a deepfake incident involving cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar. The government plans to amend IT Rules to establish laws against deepfakes, reflecting growing concerns over manipulated content.

Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar stressed that inadequate responses to deepfakes by tech platforms could lead to legal actions, including blocking. The government's dissatisfaction with tech companies' efforts to combat deepfakes is clear.

With India's upcoming general elections, the urgency to address deepfakes intensifies. Tendulkar's recent deepfake experience underscores the need for swift action against such content, beyond free speech defenses.

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Red Ventures explores sale of CNET, reports Axios

M&A

Jan 16, 2024

Red Ventures is considering selling CNET, a tech news site it acquired from ViacomCBS in 2020 for $500 million. The company is seeking at least half that value for CNET and has approached large media firms for a potential sale.

Efforts to sell CNET intensified recently, with Red Ventures rehiring former president Mark Larkin to enhance the site's profitability. This move comes as part of a strategic evaluation ahead of a possible sale.

Despite Red Ventures' reputation for successful acquisitions, CNET has faced challenges, including a downturn in advertising and issues over AI-generated articles. This makes CNET an outlier in Red Ventures' portfolio of digital media assets.

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Walt Disney Nominates 12 to Board of Directors, Says CEO Iger’s Compensation Doubled in 2023, reports WSJ

General

Jan 16, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Walt Disney recommends shareholders vote for its 12 board nominees, including CEO Robert Iger, whose fiscal 2023 compensation doubled. Notable nominees include Chairman Mark Parker, with Francis DeSouza not seeking re-election after joining the board in 2018.

The company emphasizes the strategic expertise of its director candidates. In a recent SEC filing, it revealed Iger's compensation rose to $31.6 million, largely due to stock awards.

Iger's return to Disney in November 2022 as CEO marked a significant leadership move. He previously led the company as CEO and Chairman from 2005 to 2020 and then as executive chairman until 2021.

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YouTube making money off new breed of climate denial, monitoring group says, reports Reuters

General

Jan 16, 2024

Responsible Media

YouTube reportedly profits from ads on channels spreading misleading climate change information. The Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) analyzed over 12,000 videos, finding content that contradicts established climate science, subtly evading YouTube's misinformation policies.

The CCDH report highlights a shift in climate denial tactics on YouTube. Channels are now focusing on discrediting climate solutions rather than outright denying global warming, thereby bypassing restrictions on monetising such content.

Earning up to $13.4 million a year from these channels, YouTube maintains its policy against outright climate denial. However, CCDH suggests policy updates to more effectively counter nuanced false claims about climate change.

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OpenAI Doesn’t Want to Train on New York Times Data After Lawsuit, Altman Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 16, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman refutes claims of needing extensive publisher data like The New York Times for AI training. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, he emphasized the startup's independence from such large data sets.

Facing a lawsuit from The New York Times for copyright infringement, OpenAI is seeking partnerships to access news content. This is crucial for its model development, balancing data accuracy with sourcing concerns.

OpenAI is in talks with various publishers for content licensing, following unsuccessful negotiations with the Times. The company's approach prioritises learning from smaller amounts of high-quality data, aligning with Altman's vision for efficient AI development.

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Big Tech should seek rivals' input on complying with EU rules, European businesses say, reports Reuters

General

Jan 16, 2024

Schibsted, Allegro, and over 20 European companies and industry groups are urging Big Tech to consult them on complying with the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA). This act requires major tech firms to foster more competition in their services.

The DMA mandates interoperability of messaging apps and more user choice in pre-installed apps for companies like Alphabet, Amazon, and Apple. These firms must comply by March 6, but smaller companies claim their efforts lack transparency and fall short of expectations.

The companies, along with industry groups, call for immediate engagement with Big Tech to ensure effective DMA compliance. This request echoes similar calls from European Commission officials.

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Netflix Tests Retail Deal With Carrefour to Gain Subscribers, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 16, 2024

Netflix Inc. is piloting a joint subscription plan with French retailer Carrefour SA in Bordeaux and Rouen, aimed at boosting its cheapest subscription. This model, echoing Amazon's strategy, offers a discounted Netflix subscription with additional shopping benefits at Carrefour.

The deal provides an ad-supported Netflix subscription for €5.99 per month, coupled with discounts on Carrefour products and free shipping for larger orders. Carrefour plans to expand this offer nationwide, depending on the trial's success.

This initiative is part of Netflix's strategy to promote its lower-priced plan, introduced in 2022. The company seeks to attract more customers by bundling streaming with shopping perks.

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Supreme Court rejects Epic v. Apple antitrust case, reports The Verge

General

Jan 16, 2024

The Supreme Court has rejected an antitrust case between Apple and Epic Games, maintaining a lower court's decision that mostly favors Apple. The dispute started when Epic implemented its own payment system in Fortnite, leading to its removal from the iOS App Store.

The court ruled against Apple's restriction on developers from directing users to alternative payment methods, ordering Apple to end these anti-steering policies. However, Apple delayed implementing this change through legal appeals.

Epic's efforts to force Apple to allow third-party app stores or sideloading on iOS remain unsuccessful. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney voiced disappointment but urged developers to inform users about alternative purchase options outside Apple's system.

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Google is laying off hundreds of employees in its advertising-sales team, reports Insider

General

Jan 16, 2024

Google is reducing its ad-sales team, with Chief Business Officer Philipp Schindler announcing layoffs in a memo. This decision reflects Google's shift from large to smaller client-focused services.

The restructuring responds to evolving client needs, moving resources from large-client sales to medium-level clients. Google's strategy includes increasing automation in ad processes.

These layoffs, mainly impacting the large-client sales team, are part of Google's wider adaptation to market changes. Impacted employees can seek other roles within the company. This follows previous layoffs in Google’s devices unit, illustrating the company’s ongoing organisational adjustments.

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YouTube, Cartoon Network, and Others Continue Battle Over Children's Data, reports MediaPost

General

Jan 15, 2024

Advertising To Children

Lawyers representing young YouTube viewers are pushing for a lawsuit against YouTube and channels like Cartoon Network for allegedly tracking children to deliver targeted ads. Initiated in 2019, the suit claims these entities didn't obtain necessary parental consent for data collection.

This legal challenge follows Google's $170 million settlement over similar accusations. The plaintiffs argue that the defendants intrusively collected private data, a claim not barred by federal privacy laws.

Google and involved channel operators seek to dismiss the lawsuit, asserting transparent data practices. However, the plaintiffs maintain their privacy was violated for profit. A court hearing is set for February 8.

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Ad leaders launch Blackweek, a conference meant to solve business problems through diversity and inclusion, reports AdAge

General

Jan 15, 2024

Diversity & Inclusion

Blackweek, a new conference created by Black and Latino leaders like VML's Walter T. Geer III, aims to address the stagnant state of diversity in the industry. Set in New York for October, it seeks to transform discussions on diversity and inclusion.

The event, conceptualised by Joe Anthony of Hero Collective, will focus on challenging industry norms and fostering actionable solutions. It targets trade executives across various sectors, emphasising direct impacts rather than mere celebration.

Distinct from existing diversity conferences, Blackweek will cater to a select group of senior executives. It aims to provide a dedicated platform for diversity issues, coinciding with New York's Advertising Week to maximise impact and participation.

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Thomson Reuters in Talks With AI Firms Over Licensing Deals, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 15, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Thomson Reuters Corp. is in discussions with various generative AI providers to license its news and data content, aiming for partnerships similar to Axel Springer SE and OpenAI. CEO Steve Hasker hinted at forthcoming announcements, highlighting Reuters' openness to collaborating with large language model providers.

The company is focusing heavily on AI innovation, particularly in legal products. It plans to invest an extra $100 million per year in generative AI, already integrating AI into its Westlaw Precision legal research tool.

Thomson Reuters also acquired a 54% stake in Swedish firm Pagero Group, enhancing its global tax solution offerings. This move signifies Thomson Reuters' expanding presence in automated and compliant tax solutions.

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Chiefs-Dolphins Playoff Game on Peacock Sets Records for U.S. Streaming and Internet Usage, reports WSJ

General

Jan 14, 2024

The NFL playoff game between the Chiefs and Dolphins, streamed on Peacock, broke records as the most streamed U.S. event with 23 million viewers and 30% of U.S. internet traffic that day. This marked the first major playoff game streamed primarily online.

Peacock faced the challenge of handling a massive influx of viewers, a task requiring extensive technical preparation. The successful stream showcased Peacock's capability in managing large-scale live events.

With a focus on sports content, Peacock aims to grow its subscriber base, despite projected losses. It plans to offer over 13,000 hours of sports in 2024, using live sports as a key attractor for viewers.

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Meta To Remove More Detailed Targeting Options Deemed Sensitive, reports MediaPost

General

Jan 13, 2024

Starting January 15, Meta will reduce specific ad targeting options on Facebook and Instagram due to issues like redundancy, granularity, and sensitivity. Affected campaigns will be notified and can run until March 18, post which they may be paused if not updated.

This move marks a shift from detailed targeting, often criticised for discrimination. Meta has previously adjusted its ad options for similar reasons, notably after the Cambridge Analytica scandal.

Meta recommends marketers affected by these changes to adopt broader targeting strategies like Advantage+. The company will offer alternative targeting suggestions, aiming to help marketers reach a wider, potentially untapped audience.

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Instagram cuts 60 jobs, eliminating a layer of management at the company, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 12, 2024

Instagram has eliminated 60 technical program manager roles, as reported by The Information, giving affected staff two months to secure alternate roles within the company. This change reflects an effort to streamline management.

Meta's spokesperson, when asked about the layoffs, pointed to CEO Mark Zuckerberg's March 2023 statement on enhancing financial performance and reducing staff, aligning with the company's efficiency drive.

The company is restructuring its product teams into three key areas: Creation, Creators, and Friend Sharing. This move is part of Instagram's strategy to focus on creators that engage teenage audiences, amid legal challenges alleging negative impacts on youth mental health.

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Google and Bing Under Fire For Serving AI Deepfake Porn In Some Search Results, reports MediaPost

General

Jan 12, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Bing, Google, and DuckDuckGo have been criticized for showing AI deepfake pornography in search results. NBC News reported this after turning off the safe-search features on Bing and Google, highlighting the issue with searches involving celebrity names and "deepfakes."

Google blurs explicit images by default, while Bing links to sites with inappropriate content, both dependent on safe-search settings. User consent is required for full visibility of explicit content on Google.

At CES 2024, Replica Studios and SAG-AFTRA addressed AI's impact on audio, introducing an AI voice agreement to protect voiceover artists' rights in the digital age, ensuring safe employment opportunities in AI voice replication.

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Courts are slowly chipping away at a law the internet was built on, reports Fast Company

General

Jan 12, 2024

Attorney Carrie Goldberg is challenging tech firms for platform abuses, facing hurdles due to Section 230, which shields platforms from liability for user content. Her cases often struggle to advance due to this legal protection.

Recent court decisions indicate a shift, with cases against social media companies proceeding under a new legal approach. Plaintiffs are focusing on faulty product claims, not covered by Section 230, leading to an increase in such lawsuits against major tech companies.

These developments challenge the broad application of Section 230, with lower courts increasingly scrutinising platforms for design-related harm. This signifies a potential change in the legal landscape for technology firms.

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Court Revives First Amendment Challenge To Maryland Digital Ad Tax, reports MediaPost

General

Jan 12, 2024

A federal appellate court has rekindled business groups' challenge to Maryland's 2021 digital ad tax law, targeting companies with over $100 million in digital ad revenue. The law, which varies rates based on global revenue, also forbids companies from directly passing the tax onto ad buyers.

The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals is allowing a First Amendment challenge against the law's restriction on directly passing along taxes. A district judge will assess if this provision limits speech and meets constitutional standards.

This development is part of broader legal opposition to Maryland's tax law, including a separate, unsuccessful challenge by Comcast and Verizon, dismissed by Maryland’s Supreme Court on procedural grounds.

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Meta placed ads next to content sexualizing minors, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jan 12, 2024

Meta faces accusations of running corporate ads next to content sexualising minors, brought forward by Walmart and Match Group in a New Mexico lawsuit. This raises significant brand safety issues, potentially damaging reputation and impacting ad ROI.

New Mexico's Attorney General alleges Meta allows exploitative content against minors on its platforms, citing Match Group's unresolved complaints about their ads appearing near graphic and illegal content.

Walmart has also voiced concerns about Meta's brand safety practices. In response, Meta asserts their dedication to eliminating inappropriate content and maintaining effective safety and security measures, despite the allegations of inadequate response to such issues.

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As Disney pushes toward streaming profitability, Pixar to undergo layoffs in 2024, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 12, 2024

Pixar, under Disney, faces layoffs affecting its 1,300-strong team, with specifics undetermined. These cuts, part of streamlining efforts, follow Disney+'s growth in subscribers and ad-supported customers.

As part of Disney's broader cost-cutting, aiming to save $7.5 billion, Pixar confronts declining ad revenue and Disney+ losses. CEO Iger plans to make Disney+ profitable by Q4 2024, reducing streaming losses.

Facing initial box office challenges, Pixar's recent releases like “Elemental” have found success on Disney+. Upcoming films and strategic shifts aim to adapt to industry changes and audience preferences, with Disney+ set to integrate Hulu content to boost streaming.

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UK government to publish tests on whether to pass new AI laws, reports FT

General

Jan 12, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

The UK government is set to define criteria for AI regulation, focusing on risks and industry compliance. The approach contrasts with stricter global regulations, aiming to balance oversight with industry growth.

Proposed AI guidelines involve existing regulators like Ofcom, part of the government's response to a consultation on a white paper. This strategy seeks a light regulatory touch to foster AI sector development.

Concerns arise over the effectiveness of voluntary AI industry commitments. Legislation may be enacted if risks outweigh innovation benefits or if AI firms resist agreement updates. The government's strategy is collaboration-focused, seeking to ensure necessary safeguards without stifling progress.

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EU antitrust chief meets Apple, Alphabet, and Qualcomm chiefs, reports Reuters

General

Jan 12, 2024

EU Antitrust Chief Margrethe Vestager met with Apple, Alphabet, and Qualcomm CEOs to discuss digital regulation and competition policy. Her focus was on the EU's Digital Markets Act and compliance.

With Apple's CEO, discussions centered on app distribution beyond the AppStore and ongoing competition cases like Apple Music. The talk with Alphabet's CEO addressed choice screen designs, self-preferencing related to the Digital Markets Act, and Google's antitrust case in advertising technology.

Under the Digital Markets Act, companies with over 45 million monthly users and €75 billion market cap must meet specific criteria, such as interoperable messaging apps and user choice in app pre-installation. Discussions with Qualcomm's CEO were not specified.

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Long-Time ANA Counsel Wood Leaves Reed Smith, Opens Private Practice, reports MediaPost

General

Jan 11, 2024

Leadership Transitions

Douglas Wood, long-time advertising industry attorney and General Counsel of the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), has left Reed Smith LLP to establish his own practice. Announcing on LinkedIn, he revealed his new venture focusing on entertainment, media, and advertising law.

During his extensive career, Wood has served as the ANA's General Counsel, guiding the trade association through various legal challenges. His tenure at Reed Smith since 2004 has been marked by significant contributions to the industry.

Despite his departure, Wood continues his association with the ANA, now serving as counsel to the ANA Board, while Reed Smith remains the organisation's legal counsel.

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Leaked email shows Amazon is slashing jobs in its Audible division, following job cuts at other teams, reports Insider

General

Jan 11, 2024

Amazon's Audible division is cutting 5% of its staff, as part of a wider cost-cutting strategy. CEO Bob Carrigan announced this challenging but necessary move to align with the competitive market.

These layoffs are in line with broader reductions across Amazon, including Twitch and Prime Video, with the company shedding around 27,000 jobs since late 2022. This reflects Amazon's intensified focus on reducing costs.

Audible, an audiobook provider acquired by Amazon, faces operational shifts to mirror Amazon's practices more closely. Despite being in good shape, Carrigan stressed the need for Audible to become more efficient and leaner in response to the evolving business landscape.

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State Legislators, Wary of Deceptive Election Ads, Tighten A.I. Rules, reports NYT

General

Jan 11, 2024

U.S. state legislators are rapidly drafting laws to regulate AI-generated political ads due to the rising sophistication of deepfakes. Recognising the potential for misuse in elections, states like California, Texas, Washington, Minnesota, and Michigan have passed laws mandating the disclosure of AI usage in campaign ads.

Indiana's Representative Julie Olthoff's bill requires AI-altered media to carry disclaimers, reflecting widespread concern among lawmakers about the impact of AI on elections. These state-level initiatives complement federal legislation and focus on ensuring transparency in political advertising.

In response to the deceptive potential of AI, states like Kentucky are imposing strict penalties, including felonies for first-time violators, highlighting the serious approach to mitigating AI's risks in political discourse.

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Microsoft rolls out new AI tool that generates instant banner ads, reports Search Engine Land

General

Jan 11, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft is launching Retail Media Creative Studio, an AI-powered tool within its retail media platform to automate banner ad creation. This innovation aims to reduce coordination between creative and media teams, allowing for more focus on strategic activities like audience analysis.

The tool enables rapid creation of banner ads by inputting a product URL, aligning with retailer style guides for efficiency. Retailers have final approval, facilitating collaborative and quicker campaign launches.

Retail Media Creative Studio's AI algorithms optimise live banner ads based on performance metrics, eliminating the need for manual A/B testing. Microsoft VP Lynne Kjolso emphasises its role in enhancing retail personalisation and campaign efficacy.

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Meta faces another EU privacy challenge over pay for privacy consent choice, reports TechCrunch

General

Jan 11, 2024

Meta Platforms is under scrutiny for its user tracking methods in Europe. Privacy group noyb supports a complaint to the Austrian data protection authority, claiming Meta's practice of offering a paid, ad-free version of Facebook and Instagram or "consent" to tracking violates EU law.

Meta's approach, shifting to a consent basis, forces users into a dilemma: pay for privacy or consent to tracking. Critics argue this violates GDPR's genuine consent principles, as withdrawing consent is harder than giving it.

This challenge highlights a significant legal and operational issue for Meta in Europe, potentially impacting its revenue and business model if found non-compliant with GDPR.

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Peacock Enters Uncharted Waters by Streaming N.F.L. Playoff Game, reports NYT

General

Jan 11, 2024

NBCUniversal's streaming of an NFL playoff game exclusively on Peacock marks a significant step in sports broadcasting. This pioneering move, featuring the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, tests Peacock's ability to manage large-scale live streaming despite a smaller subscriber base than competitors.

Peacock's decision to charge $6 for viewing this playoff game, usually free on network TV, aims to draw more subscribers to the service. This approach has sparked debate over viewer access and the changing dynamics of sports broadcasting.

The successful streaming of this high-stakes NFL game is crucial for Peacock, potentially setting a new precedent for digital sports coverage and impacting its future growth and relevance in the streaming market.

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Google Trims Hundreds of Jobs as It Marshals Resources for AI, reports WSJ

General

Jan 11, 2024

Google has recently executed layoffs across various units, including the Assistant program, hardware, and internal software tools, though the full extent remains undisclosed. These layoffs align with Google's broader cost-cutting measures and restructuring, even affecting top executives like Fitbit's co-founders.

Under CEO Sundar Pichai's leadership, Google is redirecting resources towards artificial intelligence, paralleling Amazon's recent workforce reductions in its entertainment and streaming divisions.

Following its largest layoff of 12,000 employees last year, Google continues to streamline operations, focusing on efficiency. This strategic shift involves flattening team structures to accelerate decision-making, aligning with the company's evolving priorities and a leaner workforce structure.

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UK to make Big Tech give rivals access to data under new plans, reports Reuters

General

Jan 11, 2024

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to implement new rules targeting major tech companies like Meta, Google, Amazon, and Apple. This move, part of the CMA's enhanced oversight, aims to foster innovation and protect competition.

The CMA's proposed regulations focus on promoting disruptive technologies and fair market practices. These guidelines stress transparency and fair competition in digital markets.

Soon, the CMA's Digital Markets Unit will enforce measures to prevent Big Tech from favouring their products, require data sharing with rivals, and increase algorithmic transparency. These actions will kick off with multiple investigations under the new regime.

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EU court adviser sides with Google and Amazon in Italian rule spat, reports Reuters

General

Jan 11, 2024

Google, Amazon, and Airbnb, based in Ireland and Luxembourg, are not required to follow an Italian rule mandating online service providers to register and disclose information. This rule, which entails penalties for non-compliance, was challenged by these companies under EU law, stating obligations apply only in the country of establishment.

An Italian court, addressing the dispute, sought advice from the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). CJEU Advocate General recommended supporting the companies, asserting that member states can't enforce such obligations on firms based in other EU states.

The court, which often follows these recommendations, will issue a ruling in the upcoming months.

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Italy regulator tightens rules on influencers after Ferragni scandal, reports Reuters

General

Jan 11, 2024

Influencer Marketing

Italy's AGCOM has introduced strict transparency rules for social media influencers, initially targeting those with over 1 million followers and collaborating with Italian brands. This follows a fine imposed on influencer Chiara Ferragni for unclear charity promotion. Influencers must clearly label sponsored content to avoid hefty fines.

These rules mirror France's recent laws for influencer transparency and product promotion limitations. Influencers in Italy must also adhere to media codes of conduct, promoting unbiased, factual, and non-discriminatory communication.

AGCOM focuses on major influencers but anticipates smaller influencers to adopt similar standards. The aim is to ensure clear differentiation between organic and paid content online.

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Google Suffers Setback in Fight Over $2.6 Billion EU Fine, reports Bloomberg

General

Jan 11, 2024

The EU's top court advisor recommended upholding Google's €2.4 billion fine for unfairly favoring its shopping services in search results. This opinion, often a predictor of the court's final decision, supports the 2017 ruling for Google's anti-competitive practices.

This fine is part of the EU's broader actions against Google, totalling €8.3 billion for various market abuses. The company must modify how it displays shopping search results to provide fair competition.

Google awaits the court's final verdict, focusing on compliance and constructive engagement with the European Commission. Meanwhile, the Commission investigates Google's dominance in digital advertising, potentially impacting its business structure.

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Washington State Plans to Sue to Block Kroger-Albertsons Deal, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Jan 11, 2024

The Washington state attorney general is set to file a lawsuit to block the merger between Kroger Co. and Albertsons Cos., possibly as early as Thursday afternoon. This legal action, anticipated to be filed in state court, aims to challenge the proposed consolidation of these major grocery retailers.

This lawsuit is independent of investigations by the US Federal Trade Commission and other states examining the merger. The FTC, which is also scrutinising the deal, would likely pursue any legal action in federal court if necessary.

The Washington attorney general's office has not yet responded to requests for comments on this developing situation.

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Netflix's Ad Tier Hits 23 Million Monthly Active Users, Adds Pause Ads, reports AdWeek

General

Jan 11, 2024

Netflix, at CES, announced its ad tier reaches 23 million monthly users globally, growing from 15 million in November. The platform plans to introduce pause ads globally, displayed after 5 idle seconds, enhancing its advertising capabilities. This expansion is a significant step in addressing scale issues previously noted by buyers.

The company is adding new ad formats, including non-intrusive pause ads and innovative Binge ads and QR codes. These additions are part of Netflix's strategy to diversify and strengthen its advertising offerings.

These developments occur as the industry shifts towards ad-supported tiers. Netflix raised prices for ad-free plans, highlighting the increasing focus on mixed revenue models combining subscription and advertising.

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TikTok Shop sellers say its AI-powered crackdowns are hamstringing small businesses as the moderation system doles out bogus violations, reports Insider

General

Jan 11, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

TikTok Shop's intensified oversight is leading to a surge in violation claims against sellers for incorrect product categorisation and pricing. Small businesses, like a fishing content creator, face challenges with frequent product freezes and appeals.

The combination of automated and human moderation for policy enforcement is proving burdensome for sellers, often leading to unjustified violation claims. This rigorous moderation is particularly taxing for small businesses, who struggle to maintain operations amidst these disruptions.

TikTok's strict enforcement on its Shop platform is pressuring small business sellers with constant violation claims, complicating their participation in the marketplace. This situation is challenging for these essential early adopters as they navigate an increasingly complex selling environment.

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