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New Study Shows Which Streaming Service Cancels TV Series at the Highest Rate, reports Variety

General

Sep 14, 2023

The perception that streaming services frequently cancel shows is challenged by a study conducted by Variety Intelligence Platform and Luminate. It reveals that between 2020 and 2023, major U.S. streaming platforms had a combined average cancellation rate of 12.2%, just slightly higher than linear TV's 10.8%.

Netflix, often accused of being quick to cancel, had a 10.2% cancellation rate and showed year-on-year improvement. Apple TV+ had the lowest rate of all, at 4.9%, largely due to its selective programming.

The study concluded that cancellation practices are fairly consistent across both streaming and traditional platforms, dispelling the notion that streaming services are more cutthroat when it comes to show cancellations.

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Infillion Closes Deal to Acquire MediaMath

M&A

Sep 14, 2023

Infillion has acquired the assets of MediaMath, a pioneering firm in programmatic advertising that filed for bankruptcy due to debt issues. Infillion aims to integrate MediaMath's technology to create revenue synergies.

The global programmatic advertising market is expected to top $148 billion in 2023. MediaMath has been a key player in this sector, known for its scalable innovation and long-standing appeal to advanced marketers.

Infillion plans to leverage MediaMath's technology to enhance its own ad products and attract new customers, signalling a strategic expansion in the adtech space.

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X Turns To Google To Sell Programmatic Ads As It Struggles To Regain Ad Dollars, reports AdAge

General

Sep 14, 2023

X, once Twitter, will use Google Ad Manager to incorporate programmatic ads into its main timeline. This follows a slump in ad revenue after Elon Musk acquired the company. The timeline ads have third-party safety reporting, aimed at appeasing brands wary of content moderation under Musk.

The switch to programmatic advertising suggests X's struggle to lift direct ad sales. Google's involvement marks a significant moment in X's advertising strategy.

However, this partnership also carries risks for Google, which must ensure X meets its stringent publisher guidelines. Both companies aim to rebuild trust with advertisers.

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Googlers Told to Avoid Words Like Share and Bundle, US Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 14, 2023

Alphabet Inc.’s Google is facing a trial in Washington DC over allegations of illegally maintaining a monopoly in online search. The Justice Department accuses Google of encouraging employees to have sensitive chats that auto-delete after 24 hours to avoid leaving records of potentially problematic conduct.

Evidence, including a chat from CEO Sundar Pichai, suggests Google "hid and destroyed documents," according to government lawyers. The company has a long history of caution around antitrust considerations, even advising employees on specific phrases to avoid.

Google denies hampering competition, arguing that consumers prefer its search engine due to superior technology. It declined to comment on the ongoing trial.

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Disney Holds Initial Talks on Sale of ABC to Local Broadcaster Nexstar, reports Bloomberg

M&A

Sep 14, 2023

Walt Disney Co. is reportedly in early talks to sell its ABC network and TV stations to local broadcaster Nexstar Media Group, though no specific valuation has been discussed. Tom Carter, Nexstar's adviser, indicated the company is open to acquiring such legacy assets, subject to certain conditions.

Carter highlighted potential complications, such as the shared telecasts between ABC and ESPN, Disney's sports network. Questions around the logistics and future of such a collaboration would need clarification.

Disney CEO Bob Iger had previously expressed interest in offloading traditional TV networks like ABC, as the focus shifts to streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu.

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As Marketers Seek Diverse-Owned Media Buys, Some Dollars Directed to Unwanted Sites, reports WSJ

General

Sep 14, 2023

Diversity & Inclusion

Jounce Media's report suggests there's ample programmatic ad space on minority, LGBTQ, and female-owned media to meet marketers' diversity goals. However, the study warns that quality varies, advising strict vetting to prevent ads from appearing on low-quality platforms.

The report also debunks the industry notion of insufficient diverse-owned media supply for meeting diversity and inclusion targets, stating there's enough supply for any spend targets.

Although interest in diverse-owned media is growing, a gap remains between interest and actual investment. Marketers are urged to make more meaningful commitments to realise their diversity goals.

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Biden Asks Supreme Court to Lift Limits on Contacts With Social Media Sites, reports NYT

General

Sep 14, 2023

A U.S. Court of Appeals panel has ruled that White House officials likely violated the First Amendment by encouraging social media platforms to remove specific posts. The ruling restricts many officials from coercing or encouraging content removal that is constitutionally protected.

Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar argues that such interventions are within governmental rights to advance public interest. She adds that content decisions are ultimately made by private companies.

The case is seen as a major test for the role of free speech in the digital age, and the Supreme Court has been asked to intervene.

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Nielsen Names a New CEO Amid Swirling Change in Media Measurement, reports WSJ

General

Sep 14, 2023

Nielsen has appointed Karthik Rao as its new CEO, with outgoing CEO David Kenny becoming executive chairman. Rao, a 23-year veteran at Nielsen, takes the helm during a period of industry upheaval and increased competition.

The appointment follows Nielsen's $10bn acquisition by Elliott Investment Management and Brookfield Business Partners. The firm faces challenges in restoring confidence after its TV ratings accreditation was temporarily revoked.

Rao's immediate tasks include securing new accreditations and focusing the company's resources. This comes after Nielsen recently reduced its global workforce by 9% to align costs with revenues.

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Delaware Governor Signs Opt-Out Privacy Law, reports MediaPost

General

Sep 13, 2023

Delaware Governor John Carney has signed the Delaware Personal Data Privacy Act, granting residents the right to opt out of online behavioural advertising. The law allows consumers to refuse ads based on pseudonymous data collected over time across various sites but doesn't limit ads based on first-party data.

The legislation also mandates companies to honour universal opt-out signals, like the Global Privacy Control. It gives residents the right to know what non-pseudonymous data is collected about them and to request its deletion.

Delaware becomes the 12th U.S. state with comprehensive privacy laws. The law will come into effect in 2025.

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Criteo looks to unify retail media with a DSP and a three-pronged set of data tools and solutions, reports Digiday

General

Sep 13, 2023

Commerce media firm Criteo has launched Commerce Max, a demand-side platform designed to unify the retail media market. Tested for over a year, the platform aims to centralise retail media inventory, involving 210 retailers and 2,400 brands.

Criteo also unveiled Commerce Yield, a three-tier monetisation scheme. It connects brands, retailers, and consumers using data, and includes marketplace, in-store, and insight solutions to aid monetisation.

The initiatives place Criteo in competition with other DSP giants like The Trade Desk and commerce behemoths like Amazon. The launch has garnered support from key agencies and brands.

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Pinterest CEO Pledges A Safer Platform For Users and Advertisers, reports MediaPost

General

Sep 13, 2023

Pinterest CEO Bill Ready pledged to make the platform safer for young users facing rising depression rates. The company has shifted its metrics to focus on emotional well-being, urging advertisers to hold them accountable.

Gen Z has become Pinterest's most engaged demographic, primarily using the platform for shopping. Engagement with shoppable content rose 50% year-on-year, enhancing customer-retailer relationships.

New advertising tools and AI-supported features aim to streamline the user shopping experience. This includes mobile deep links and integrations with Salesforce and Adobe Commerce, simplifying the journey from product discovery to checkout.

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Watchdog accuses X again of not moderating hate speech, reports Axios

General

Sep 13, 2023

A report by the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) states that X, formerly Twitter, failed to remove 86% of flagged "extreme hate speech" posts. The claims challenge X CEO Linda Yaccarino's assertions that the platform is "healthier and safer" under Elon Musk's leadership.

The flagged content ranged from racist caricatures to Holocaust denial. X defended its moderation policies, accusing the CCDH of "false claims" and vowing to protect free expression on its platform.

The findings escalate existing tensions between X and watchdogs. Musk recently threatened legal action against the Anti-Defamation League, accusing it of affecting X's ad revenue.

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In Show of Force, Silicon Valley Titans Pledge Getting This Right With A.I., reports NYT

General

Sep 13, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Tech magnates including Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg met U.S. lawmakers in a three-hour forum to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) and potential regulations. The meeting, orchestrated by Senate leader Chuck Schumer, aimed to influence the direction of AI policy.

Participants debated the need for governmental safeguards and regulation, particularly given AI's rapid advancements and associated risks. Concerns ranged from job disruption to existential threats.

The closed-door nature of the meeting drew criticism for its lack of transparency. Schumer hinted that future discussions might be public, as the U.S. takes steps to catch up with Europe's ongoing AI regulatory efforts.

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In Antitrust Trial, Former Google Employee Details History of Search Deals, reports NYT

General

Sep 13, 2023

The U.S. Justice Department is making its case against Google in an antitrust trial, accusing the tech giant of cutting out search competitors through exclusive agreements. Chris Barton, a former Google employee, testified that Google's main goal was to become the exclusive default search engine on mobile devices through partnerships with mobile companies.

Google has countered, saying that companies choose its search engine due to its superior quality. The company's lead litigator, John Schmidtlein, highlighted that it's easy for users to switch search engines and that other search options are often promoted.

The trial could have far-reaching implications for the tech industry, potentially setting precedents for upcoming government monopoly cases against other tech giants.

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India calls X a habitual non-compliant platform in latest court tussle, reports Reuters

General

Sep 13, 2023

India's government has accused Elon Musk's social media platform, X, of habitual non-compliance with content removal orders. The claim comes as part of a legal battle in Karnataka's High Court.

Previously known as Twitter, X is contesting a 5 million rupee fine for allegedly not obeying blocking orders from the Indian government.

The ongoing legal tussle occurs as Musk's Tesla is in talks to establish a factory in India. The government argues X undermines its authority by questioning content removal directives

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Amazon debuts generative AI tools that helps sellers write product descriptions, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 13, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon has launched new AI tools to aid sellers in creating product listings. Using large language models, these tools can generate and enhance descriptions, titles, and details, streamlining the listing process.

Vice President Robert Tekiela says the AI can "infer, improve, and enrich product knowledge," allowing for nuanced listings based on diverse data sources.

However, concerns loom over the AI's potential to produce inaccurate information. Amazon could be liable for mistakes, especially if the AI's role isn't disclosed. Sellers are advised to double-check content for compliance.

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Bill Gates, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg are meeting in Washington to discuss future AI regulations, reports CNN

General

Sep 13, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Tech industry leaders, including CEOs of Google, Microsoft, and Meta, met with US senators in a closed-door meeting to discuss upcoming AI regulation. Led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, this is the first of nine planned sessions aiming to shape new AI laws.

Key topics include transparency, intellectual property, and the need for a federal AI oversight agency. Companies like IBM plan to present use-cases for their AI tools, suggesting a complex legislative landscape ahead.

The meeting is seen as a litmus test for the feasibility of broad AI regulation in the US, amid growing concerns about AI's societal impacts and potential for disruption.

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Dutch group summons X to appear in court over alleged data misuse, reports Reuters

General

Sep 13, 2023

A Dutch organisation, Stichting Data Bescherming Nederland (SDBN), has filed a subpoena against X Corp, formerly Twitter, potentially leading to a class-action lawsuit for alleged misuse of user data between 2013-2021. The subpoena was filed at Rotterdam District Court, with a hearing set for 3 January.

X Corp has yet to comment on the situation.

The lawsuit's progression depends on judges determining whether X Corp has a case to answer and whether SDBN adequately represents an identifiable group of affected individuals.

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IAB and MRC’s new retail media guidelines target the industry’s measurement issues, reports AdAge

General

Sep 13, 2023

The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) and Media Rating Council have unveiled guidelines to standardise measurement in the retail media sector. The document is open for public feedback until 13 October.

Retail media in the U.S. is forecasted to reach $45.15 billion this year, a 20% increase from 2022. IAB reports that 62% of buyers cite a lack of measurement standards as a growth barrier.

The move follows industry calls for standardisation, including from a group led by Albertsons. IAB's research indicates a shift of funds from digital platforms to retail media, with an expected 11% growth in ad spend this year.

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Kraft Heinz Names Carat AOR for US Media, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 13, 2023

Kraft Heinz has appointed Carat as its U.S. media agency, moving away from Publicis Media's Starcom. The change follows a 2020 review that had earlier shifted global business from Starcom to Carat.

The U.S. is Kraft Heinz's largest market, where it spent the majority of its estimated $364 million global media budget in 2022. The move is a blow to Starcom, which had established a specialised team, Publicis 57, for the brand.

This switch comes amidst leadership changes at both Kraft Heinz and Carat. It aligns with Kraft Heinz's renewed focus on global marketing, underscored by the launch of its in-house agency, The Kitchen, in 2020.

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Bipartisan push to ban deceptive AI-generated ads in US elections, reports Reuters

General

Sep 13, 2023

U.S. Senators from both parties have introduced legislation aiming to ban the use of AI in creating deceptive content featuring candidates in political ads for federal elections. Democrats Amy Klobuchar and Chris Coons joined Republicans Josh Hawley and Susan Collins in calling for action against such AI manipulations.

The move comes as global authorities struggle to regulate AI technologies like ChatGPT, which are increasingly influential. Experts warn that AI could be used for mass hacking or spreading disinformation via fake social media profiles.

The proposed bill specifically targets "materially deceptive AI-generated audio, images, or video" in political advertising aimed at influencing federal elections or fundraising.

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Dentsu launches paid search tool that uses AI to speed up creativity and optimization, reports Digiday

General

Sep 12, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Dentsu is launching d.Scriptor, an AI tool aimed at supercharging paid search by optimising ad copy and creative experimentation. Exclusive to Dentsu clients, it's compatible with multiple search platforms.

The tool is tailored for industries like retail and travel, focusing on clean data inputs to ensure reliable AI outputs. It aims to streamline character counts and calls-to-action, while safeguarding client data.

Bruce Williams, of Dentsu Media U.S., stresses that d.Scriptor will complement rather than replace human skills. The tool is set to eventually branch into other media like paid social and audio.

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EU regulators seek views on Microsoft remedies for UK watchdog, reports Reuters

M&A

Sep 12, 2023

EU antitrust regulators are querying Microsoft's rivals and customers about the company's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The move follows the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) blocking the deal, leading Microsoft to offer its cloud streaming rights to Ubisoft.

The European Commission had already cleared the deal in May, contingent on Microsoft licensing popular Activision games to other platforms. The Ubisoft offer was made to appease UK authorities.

Though no formal EU investigation is underway, regulators are closely monitoring UK developments before making any further moves.

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Google argues quality kept its search on top, defends billions paid, reports Reuters

General

Sep 12, 2023

Google is defending itself against U.S. Justice Department allegations of antitrust violations. The tech giant argues that its search engine's market dominance is due to quality, and payments made to device and browser makers are for software upkeep. Google emphasises that users can switch to other search engines easily.

Prosecutors counter that Google's practices stifle competition, limiting innovation and consumer choice. They claim to have evidence suggesting Google knew its business arrangements might cross antitrust boundaries.

The high-stakes trial could last up to 10 weeks and has significant implications for Big Tech. Remedies may range from altering business practices to asset divestiture.

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Musk may have violated FTC privacy order, new court filing shows, reports The Washington Post

General

Sep 12, 2023

Elon Musk's management of social network X, formerly Twitter, may have violated a 2022 U.S. government order on data security and privacy, says a Justice Department filing. It reveals details from an FTC probe, indicating compliance issues at X.

The filing highlights Musk's "radical changes" to X, suggesting these moves could jeopardise data privacy and security. It opposes X's bid to dismiss a legal agreement that could make Musk answerable in court.

The case is seen as a test of the U.S. government's ability to enforce data privacy, amidst claims from Musk and House Republicans that the FTC is "harassing" X.

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Dutch groups sue Google over alleged privacy violations, reports Reuters

General

Sep 12, 2023

The Dutch Consumentenbond and Privacy Protection Foundation have initiated legal action against Google for alleged large-scale privacy breaches. The groups are demanding that Google ceases its continuous monitoring and sharing of personal data through online advertising auctions.

They are also asking for €750 ($804) in damages per consumer who has used Google's services. Since announcing the action in May 2023, 82,000 people have joined the claim for damages.

Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has not yet commented on the lawsuit.

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Google Pays $10 Billion a Year to Maintain Monopoly, DOJ Says, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 12, 2023

Google is facing a U.S. antitrust trial, accused of paying $10 billion a year to maintain its status as the default search engine, stifling competition. The company allegedly controls 89% of the online search market.

This case is the first federal action against a U.S. tech giant in over two decades. If found guilty, Google could be forced to separate its search business from its other products, marking a significant corporate breakup.

Google denies the allegations. The firm has already incurred €8 billion in EU fines for similar antitrust violations. A U.S. decision is expected next year.

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TikTok Shop officially launches in the U.S., reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 12, 2023

TikTok has launched its e-commerce feature, TikTok Shop, in the U.S., offering a shop tab and live video shopping among other features. The platform enables creators to tag products and brands to build portfolios.

The service also includes "Fulfilled by TikTok" for logistics and an affiliate program where creators earn commissions. TikTok aims to leverage viral trends and compete with e-commerce leaders like Amazon and Shein.

The move could draw scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers, as it involves collecting additional user data, including financial details. TikTok assures that U.S. user data will be stored domestically.

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Flywheel Digital Is Working With Amazon To Help Brands Measure Customer Lifetime Value, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 12, 2023

Flywheel Digital, in collaboration with Amazon Ads, has released a feature allowing brands to closely monitor customer long-term value (CLTV). The tool uses Amazon Marketing Cloud data to provide detailed behavioural and purchasing insights.

Brands such as Unilever have tested this feature, achieving a 70% year-over-year increase in new customer acquisitions during Amazon's Prime Day in 2023.

The feature not only helps brands understand customer behaviour but also validates the effectiveness of upper-funnel advertising, thereby informing more targeted future marketing strategies.

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Biden administration seeks new order halting curbs on social media contacts, reports Reuters

General

Sep 11, 2023

The Biden administration has warned that a Louisiana judge's ruling limiting U.S. officials' interactions with social media companies could soon take full effect due to a legal loophole. The Justice Department is seeking a new ruling to prevent this.

The lawsuit, led by Republican attorneys general from Missouri and Louisiana, claims U.S. officials violated free speech by lobbying social media platforms to suppress misinformation, focusing on COVID-19 and the 2020 election.

An appeals court partly overturned the ruling but agreed that some officials violated the First Amendment. The administration fears the original ruling will come back into effect due to court procedural delays.

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Disney and Charter Settle Cable Dispute Hours Before Debut of ESPN’s Monday Night Football, reports Variety

General

Sep 11, 2023

Disney and Charter have settled their dispute, allowing Disney channels like ESPN and ABC back on Charter's cable service. Charter can also drop certain Disney channels, offering flexibility in its content packages.

Key to the agreement is broadband distribution. Disney will provide its ad-supported version of Disney+ to Charter's subscribers, whereas Charter gets more leeway in offering tailored video packages to its customers.

The deal sets a precedent in a changing media landscape, balancing traditional cable needs with emerging broadband and streaming opportunities. It could serve as a blueprint for future negotiations between content providers and distributors.

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Google's rivals get day in court as momentous US antitrust trial begins, reports Reuters

General

Sep 11, 2023

A major U.S. antitrust trial against Google is drawing attention from competitors like DuckDuckGo. The Justice Department will argue that Google paid billions to device makers such as Apple to dominate online search.

DuckDuckGo claims Google's tactics make it difficult for users to switch default search engines, limiting its market share to 2.3%. The trial could be a turning point for the firm, which has long critiqued Google's "stranglehold" on search distribution.

The legal battle could have broad implications for Big Tech companies accused of monopolistic behaviour, potentially setting significant industry precedents.

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Court eases curbs on Biden administration's contacts with social media firms, reports Reuters

General

Sep 8, 2023

A U.S. appeals court ruled that White House and health officials can't coerce social media platforms to remove content seen as misinformation. The decision modifies a broader Louisiana court injunction against the Biden administration's communications with social media firms.

The court put the narrowed injunction on hold for 10 days, allowing time for a possible Supreme Court review. The U.S. Department of Justice has declined to comment.

Missouri's Republican Attorney General hailed the ruling, asserting it would prevent federal violation of First Amendment rights. The initial lawsuit claimed censorship resulted from government urging and regulatory threats.

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Meta Platforms must face medical privacy class action, reports Reuters

General

Sep 8, 2023

A U.S. judge has ruled that Meta Platforms must face a lawsuit for allegedly violating patients' medical privacy via its Meta Pixel tracking tool. The tool was used by healthcare providers, compromising sensitive health data.

Judge William Orrick allowed claims under federal and California privacy laws to proceed. He highlighted that evidence so far did not dismiss the possibility that Meta intentionally captured sensitive healthcare information.

Some claims were dismissed, but Orrick found allegations suggesting that capturing such data was crucial for Meta's targeted advertising.

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X, formerly Twitter, caught running unlabeled ads in users' Following feeds, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 8, 2023

TechCrunch reports that X, formerly Twitter, has been running unlabeled ads in users' Following feeds. The issue arises after X updated its ad labelling system in July, making it less prominent but still technically compliant with regulations.

Consumer protection advocates, such as the Center for Digital Democracy, are calling for an FTC investigation. They accuse X of potentially engaging in deceptive business tactics by blending ads seamlessly into regular content.

This issue is a potential setback for X's newly appointed CEO, Linda Yaccarino. Hired from NBCUniversal, she was expected to responsibly boost the company's advertising revenue. Critics suggest this flub indicates otherwise.

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Elon Musk’s X Sues California Over Content Moderation Legislation, reports Forbes

General

Sep 8, 2023

Elon Musk's X, previously Twitter, has filed a lawsuit against California over a law mandating companies to disclose their content moderation policies. The suit argues that Assembly Bill 587 infringes upon the firm's First Amendment rights by compelling speech and affecting editorial decisions.

X Corp claims the legislation exerts undue pressure to remove or de-prioritise content that California finds problematic, rather than serving as a "transparency measure" as purported by the state.

The lawsuit comes amidst various legal challenges faced by X under Musk, including lawsuits concerning severance pay and contract breaches, as well as potential defamation suits.

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Verizon Awards Ogilvy Consumer Account Long Held By McCann, reports AdAge

General

Sep 8, 2023

Verizon has confirmed that it will replace McCann with WPP’s Ogilvy as the lead agency for its consumer business, with the change expected in 2024. McCann has held the account since 2015. This follows the departure of Verizon's longtime Chief Marketing Officer, Diego Scotti, announced in May.

The move won't affect other agencies currently on Verizon's roster, such as FCB, R/GA, and Golin. Ogilvy had already secured Verizon’s business-to-business account in December last year.

Verizon spent $3.6 billion on advertising in 2022 and increased its ad spend in the first half of 2023 by $124 million year-on-year.

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Google files motion to dismiss Gannett's ad tech lawsuit, reports Axios

General

Sep 8, 2023

Google aims to dismiss a U.S. antitrust lawsuit filed by Gannett, the nation's largest newspaper chain, which claims Google's ad dominance harms publishers. Google argues these claims were previously dismissed in a Texas-led case.

The lawsuit joins other legal pressures on Google, including scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department and European officials. Gannett asserts that Google's ad revenue in 2022 was six times that of all U.S. news outlets combined.

Both parties await a New York court's decision on whether the case will proceed. Meanwhile, Google and the U.S. Justice Department prepare for a separate antitrust trial.

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Disney Fight Marks Cable TV’s Last Stand, reports WSJ

General

Sep 8, 2023

The alliance between cable TV programmers and distributors is weakening, highlighted by a feud between Disney and Charter Communications. 15 million Charter customers lost access to Disney channels, and Disney is considering leaving pay-TV altogether.

Distributors like Charter claim they're funding the rise of streaming at the expense of their cable profits. Disney relies on these cable profits to offset losses from their streaming services.

This tension is affecting stock values and causing industry unrest in Hollywood. The situation raises questions about the future of traditional cable as consumers increasingly shift to streaming.

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Indonesia threatens to curb TikTok’s shopping platform, reports FT

General

Sep 7, 2023

Indonesia's Minister for Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises, Teten Masduki, has accused TikTok Shop of monopolistic practices. He suggests the country should follow the US and India in limiting TikTok's activities, which combine social media and online shopping.

The minister's comments come even as TikTok, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance, considers investing billions in Indonesia. The country represents a crucial market for TikTok, with more than a third of its 300 million active monthly users in Southeast Asia residing there.

This new stance from Indonesia raises concerns of further political resistance for TikTok. The proposal still requires backing from other governmental departments.

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ZoomInfo Is Making B-to-B Ad Buying Easier Through Trade Desk Integration, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 7, 2023

ZoomInfo is partnering with The Trade Desk to amplify its B2B ad services. The integration allows ZoomInfo's MarketingOS users to access more publishers and varied ad channels like audio and connected TV.

For The Trade Desk, the deal validates its technology, positioning it as an essential integration point for emerging ad platforms.

The partnership represents a shift in B2B marketing, increasingly merging it with programmatic advertising. This trend has accelerated since the pandemic disrupted traditional B2B marketing channels.

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A Blockbuster-era video law is being used to ding big-name brands like General Mills, Geico, and Chick-Fil-A with privacy lawsuits, reports Insider

General

Sep 7, 2023

Brands like Chick-Fil-A and Geico are accused of violating the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA) by using online tracking tools. The law, originally enacted in 1988, safeguards consumer privacy related to video materials.

Legal stakes are high; winning a VPPA claim can result in substantial damages. Despite some dismissals, 70 class-action suits were filed in the past year, signalling persistent legal risks.

Experts advise companies to mitigate risk by either removing tracking technology or obtaining VPPA-compliant consent from users. The wave of litigation continues, putting companies on high alert.

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Omnicom Media Group Retains Global HSBC Business, reports MediaPost

General

Sep 7, 2023

Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has successfully retained HSBC's global media account, following a competitive review that also involved WPP.

COMvergence, an agency research firm, predicts HSBC will allocate $130 million for measured media this year, with a focus on digital channels constituting 60% of the spend.

The win comes after OMG's agency PHD initially secured the HSBC account in 2018, ousting WPP's Mindshare.

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Apple Warned by Top US Consumer Watchdog on Tap-to-Pay Tech, reports Bloomberg

General

Sep 7, 2023

The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has cautioned Apple over its proprietary tap-to-pay technology, stating it could limit consumer choice by requiring exclusive use of Apple Pay.

The warning comes as the CFPB is set to release open banking regulations, dictating how consumer financial data is shared among companies. The agency is scrutinising the impact of Big Tech on the payments sector.

This alert follows increasing use of tap-to-pay methods and adds to the existing antitrust scrutiny that Apple faces in the European Union.

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Threads expands search to most English and Spanish-speaking countries, including US, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 7, 2023

Instagram Threads is expanding its new search feature to most English and Spanish-speaking countries, says Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The update allows for full-text search, letting users find content as well as other users.

The move aims to revive Threads, which experienced an 82% drop in daily active users since its July debut. Despite quick feature rollouts, such as search and a web app, user engagement remains low.

The update coincides with controversies around X, formerly Twitter, owned by Elon Musk. Threads plans to continue its feature expansion in more languages.

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Nielsen Won’t Force Amazon’s Data Into Thursday Night Football Ad Deals This Year, reports AdAge

General

Sep 7, 2023

Nielsen has opted to include Amazon's first-party household data for "Thursday Night Football" in its trading metrics. However, this new methodology won't become part of Nielsen's industry-standard national panel, limiting Amazon's potential gains from a reported 9% viewer increase.

The decision followed a tense meeting with the Media Rating Council (MRC) and has sparked debate within the industry. Critics say Nielsen is favouring Amazon by not enforcing the new methodology for this year's games.

Nielsen's move also influences an ongoing MRC audit of its big data measurement, which now includes Amazon data, adding complexity to future trading dynamics.

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News Corp in negotiations with AI companies over content usage, reports Reuters

General

Sep 7, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

News Corp is in talks with AI companies about the use of its content, said CEO Robert Thomson, adding there are no plans for legal action at this stage. The firm owns high-profile publications like the Wall Street Journal.

Thomson indicated that although litigation is likely in the industry's future, News Corp currently prefers negotiations.

The direction other publishers will take remains unclear. The Associated Press, for example, recently opted for a licensing deal with OpenAI.

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Microsoft to defend customers on AI copyright challenges, reports Reuters

General

Sep 7, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft has announced it will cover legal damages for customers using its AI products if they face copyright infringement lawsuits for the generated output.

This offer is valid as long as customers use the built-in "guardrails and content filters" aimed at minimising the chance of infringing content.

The move comes as Microsoft expands its focus on generative AI, incorporating it into various products. The Copilot Copyright Commitment extends existing IP indemnification coverage to AI-based services like Copilots and Bing Chat Enterprise.

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The Chrome Privacy Sandbox APIs Are Fully Available, reports AdExchanger

General

Sep 7, 2023

Google has rolled out its Chrome Privacy Sandbox APIs for most users, paving the way for the end of third-party cookies by 2024. The APIs allow ad tech firms to integrate and test at scale.

Despite regulatory oversight by the UK's Competition and Markets Authority, Google has faced little resistance. The APIs are gaining traction in the ad industry.

Consumer scepticism remains, as users can opt out of the Privacy Sandbox or disable specific APIs. The efficacy of these new privacy controls is yet to be determined.

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YouTube is going to remove some ad controls for creators, reports The Verge

General

Sep 7, 2023

Starting in November, YouTube is simplifying ad controls for video creators, eliminating individual settings for types of ads like pre-roll and post-roll. Creators will only have the option to enable or disable ads before or after videos; YouTube will decide the specific ad type to display.

The platform argues this shouldn't majorly impact creators, as most already utilise a mix of ad types. However, those seeking finer control over viewer experience may find the changes limiting.

Additionally, YouTube is introducing new mid-roll ad options for live streams and experimenting with longer, but less frequent, ad breaks on connected TVs.

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Nielsen Laying Off 9% Of Its Global Workforce, reports AdAge

General

Sep 6, 2023

Nielsen is cutting about 9% of its global staff to align costs with revenues. The move comes amid heightened competition in U.S. TV and media measurement markets.

The layoffs could affect over 1,000 employees, although exact numbers were not disclosed. Earlier cuts this year targeted the company's radio measurement business.

A company spokesperson confirmed that the cuts are designed to secure Nielsen's financial future. Severance packages and outplacement services are being offered to those affected.

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Even Retail Media Owners Want More Measurement Standardization, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 6, 2023

Retail media networks (RMNs) are on the rise, expected to generate $125.7 billion globally by 2023. Major brands like Walmart and Amazon are tapping into this growing advertising avenue, but lack of standardisation hampers further investment.

UK retailer Currys is advancing its RMN by utilising first-party data for targeted online ads. Meanwhile, IAB Europe is working on guidelines to foster industry unity and attract more investment.

Surveys indicate 70% of buyers see non-standardisation as a barrier. Both buyers and sellers agree on the urgent need for setting measurement standards to make RMNs more appealing to marketers.

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Google to require disclosure for AI in election ads, reports Axios

General

Sep 6, 2023

Google has announced that starting in November, election advertisers must disclose if their ads contain synthetic or altered content, including content generated via AI. This move aims to combat the potential for deceptive content in an already misinformation-prone online political space.

The disclosure must be "clear and conspicuous," and ads altering real events or depicting someone saying or doing something they didn't will fall under the new policy. Ads with inconsequential alterations are exempt.

The enforcement will include human review and tech tools, with advertisers facing potential account suspension for serious violations. The policy applies specifically to election ads for candidates, not campaign issues.

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In Its First Monopoly Trial of Modern Internet Era, U.S. Sets Sights on Google, reports NYT

General

Sep 6, 2023

The U.S. Justice Department has launched its first antitrust trial of the modern internet era against Google, accusing it of abusing its search power to suppress competition. The case focuses on Google's agreements with Apple and other firms to make its search engine the default on various devices.

The stakes are high for Google, which has grown into a $1.7 trillion behemoth since its founding in 1998. If found guilty, the tech giant may be required to alter its business practices, pay damages, and even undergo a significant restructuring.

The 10-week trial could set a legal precedent for regulating big tech, potentially reshaping the sector's far-reaching influence.

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Apple says it remains worried about risks of EU Digital Markets Act, reports Reuters

General

Sep 6, 2023

Apple has expressed concerns over the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA), following the European Commission's decision to designate it and five other tech giants as "gatekeepers" of online services. Apple is particularly uneasy about the privacy and security implications the DMA may have.

Under the DMA, companies designated as gatekeepers are obliged to make their messaging apps compatible with competitors' and to allow users to pre-select apps on their devices.

Microsoft has accepted its gatekeeper status and welcomed an investigation into possible exemptions for its services. Meanwhile, Meta, Facebook's parent company, is evaluating the Commission's designation.

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Comcast and Disney Move Up Hulu Sale Talks Date to Sept. 30, Roberts Claims Hulu Worth Well More Than $30 Billion, reports Variety

M&A

Sep 6, 2023

Comcast and Disney have accelerated the timeline for discussing the sale of Comcast's one-third stake in Hulu. Initially scheduled for January 2024, the talks will now take place on 30th September this year. Disney owns the remaining two-thirds of Hulu.

Comcast CEO Brian Roberts suggests that the "synergies" around Hulu could make it worth $30 billion, up from a previous estimate of $27.5 billion. He described the lower figure as "hypothetical," stating that the platform has gained significantly in value.

Roberts also indicated that proceeds from the sale would be returned to Comcast shareholders.

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Norway court rules against Facebook owner Meta in privacy case, reports Reuters

General

Sep 6, 2023

A Norwegian court has ruled that Meta Platforms, parent company of Facebook and Instagram, can be fined for breaching user privacy. The company has been fined one million crowns ($93,200) per day for using user data in targeted advertising.

The decision could set a precedent in Europe if Norway's data regulator, Datatilsynet, refers the case to the European Data Protection Board. This could make the fine permanent and EU-wide.

Meta had argued that the regulator's actions were disproportionate, but the court rejected these claims. The company is now considering its next steps.

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4A’s Urges Agencies To Stand Against Long Payment Terms, reports AdAge

General

Sep 6, 2023

Agency Management

The 4A's, a U.S. ad agency trade group, warns against extended payment terms of 120-180 days pushed by marketers. The group argues that such terms are unsustainable and warns against supply chain financing, which places the interest burden on agencies.

The report states the pandemic has normalised long payment terms, adding cash-flow stress to agencies. About 75% of an agency's costs are fixed, like salaries, making it hard to mitigate the impact of delayed payments.

4A's CEO Marla Kaplowitz insists agencies shouldn't act as banks for clients and cautions that such terms could be particularly harmful to small agencies.

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Roku Laying Off 10% of Employees, Will Take up to $65 Million Charge to Remove Streaming Content, reports Variety

General

Sep 6, 2023

Roku is laying off 10% of its workforce, over 300 employees, in its third round of cuts in less than a year. The streaming company also plans to limit new hires.

As part of a "strategic review," Roku will remove selected content, incurring a $65 million impairment charge this quarter. The firm is also consolidating office space and reducing other expenses.

Despite the cuts, Roku's Q3 net revenue is expected to be between $835 million and $875 million. The adjustments aim to better control operational costs amid a challenging macroeconomic environment.

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Google reaches tentative settlement in US Play Store lawsuit, reports Reuters

General

Sep 6, 2023

Google has tentatively settled a U.S. class-action suit claiming its Play Store overcharged customers and violated antitrust laws. The lawsuit, involving over 30 states, requested that a November trial be cancelled. Details of the settlement are undisclosed.

The settlement awaits court approval. Google is also embroiled in similar antitrust lawsuits concerning its Android apps and in-app sales.

Epic Games, involved in a comparable case, is not part of this settlement. CEO Tim Sweeney indicated Epic's stance would hinge on whether Google's in-app sales commission, often called the 'Google tax,' remains intact.

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TikTok opens Dublin data centre to ease China spying fears, reports BBC

General

Sep 5, 2023

TikTok has launched its first European data centre in Dublin to mitigate concerns over data privacy and its ties to China. The centre will store data from over 150 million European users, with plans for additional centres in Ireland and Norway.

To bolster security, TikTok has partnered with NCC Group for independent cybersecurity audits, a move aimed at exceeding European regulatory requirements.

Named "Project Clover," this initiative follows bans on TikTok by European institutions due to cybersecurity concerns. TikTok aims to engage with European policymakers to further explain the system.

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FTC Antitrust Suit Against Amazon Set for Later This Month After Meeting Fails to Resolve Impasse, reports WSJ

General

Sep 5, 2023

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is set to sue Amazon for antitrust violations, as the company offered no concessions to avert litigation. The lawsuit will focus on Amazon's treatment of third-party sellers and its own products.

The suit may propose "structural remedies," potentially leading to a company breakup. It aims to scrutinise practices like Amazon's logistics programme and third-party seller pricing.

This legal action will be a landmark for FTC Chair Lina Khan, known for her criticisms of Amazon's market power. The FTC did not specify what concessions might have prevented the lawsuit.

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Big Tech gears up for Digital Markets Act, reports Politico

General

Sep 5, 2023

Big Tech is bracing for the European Union's forthcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA), set for enforceability in March 2024. Insiders suggest that the European Commission has been relatively quiet as the DMA's designation deadline nears.

Major firms like Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are expected to be classified as "gatekeepers," making platforms like Google Search and Instagram subject to new rules. Samsung and Bytedance have also identified themselves as potential gatekeepers.

The DMA criteria include 45 million monthly EU users, a turnover of at least €7.5 billion in the last three years, and a market cap above €75 billion.

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Meta to drop Facebook News tab in some European countries, reports Reuters

General

Sep 5, 2023

News Publishing

Meta Platforms will axe its 'Facebook News' feature in the UK, France, and Germany later this year. Although users can still view news article links and publishers maintain account access, new commercial deals for news content will not be initiated.

The move comes amid global legislative pressure for Big Tech to share more ad revenue with news publishers. Meta notes that news forms less than 3% of global Facebook feeds, suggesting it's a minor part of the user experience.

The company has also started blocking news on its platforms in Canada, following a new law demanding payment to news publishers. Similar legislation exists in Australia.

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YouTube Data And Partner Sites Need More Scrutiny, MRC Says, reports AdAge

General

Sep 5, 2023

The Media Rating Council (MRC) is eyeing an audit of YouTube's first-party co-viewing data. This follows allegations that YouTube misdirects ad spends to low-quality sites. YouTube, although yet to agree to the audit, says it's committed to metric accreditation.

The move is partly triggered by a contentious Adalytics report, which YouTube disputes. Preliminary MRC analysis suggests low risk but indicates that Google's market size makes even small issues significant.

The scrutiny joins a wider industry debate about the efficacy of digital advertising audits, affecting not just YouTube but also platforms like Meta and Amazon.

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PHD Worldwide Names New CEO, reports AdAge

General

Sep 5, 2023

Omnicom Media Group (OMG) has named Guy Marks as the new CEO of PHD Worldwide, effective 1st October. He will report to OMG Global CEO Florian Adamski.

Marks, former CEO of OMG for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, joined the company in 2014. He notably expanded OMG's analytics and cloud consultancy services across global markets.

He succeeds Philippa Brown, who leaves after 16 years with OMG to pursue independent consulting. A successor for Marks' previous role is expected to be announced next week.

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Malaysia mulls rules for Google and Meta to pay news outlets for content, reports Reuters

General

Sep 5, 2023

News Publishing

Malaysia is considering new regulations that would require internet giants like Google and Meta Platforms to pay news outlets for their content. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is in talks with these companies to establish a framework similar to Australia's 2021 regulations.

The proposals also include elements of Canada's Bill C-11, aiming to regulate streaming platforms and mandate support for local content. The regulations are part of broader efforts to balance income between digital platforms and local media.

This move comes amid Malaysia's heightened scrutiny of online content under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office last November.

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Publishers’ workforce diversity reports released this summer show steady improvement in newsroom diversity, reports Digiday

General

Sep 5, 2023

Diversity & Inclusion

Gannett, Insider, and The Washington Post have reported modest gains in newsroom diversity but little overall change. The Washington Post's newsroom is now 63% white, down 3% from last year.

Gender diversity saw slight improvement. Gannett reported a 1% rise in female employees, while The Washington Post noted a 2% increase in its news and editorial departments.

BuzzFeed and The Los Angeles Times have yet to publish this year's diversity reports, both undergoing organisational changes.

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X’s brand safety efforts called into question as MRC and TAG credentials hang in the balance, reports Digiday

General

Sep 4, 2023

X, formerly Twitter, is grappling with brand safety issues, hindered by owner Elon Musk's actions and a lack of clear leadership in its brand safety team. Accreditation from regulatory bodies like the Media Rating Council (MRC) is delayed, casting doubts on the platform's credibility.

Internal chaos seems to stall progress; key roles in the brand safety department are reportedly vacant. Without these roles filled, achieving necessary accreditations appears unlikely, further undermining trust.

Despite some efforts to improve, X has not regained advertiser confidence. Marketers remain cautious, leaving the platform's advertising future uncertain.

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Apple and Microsoft fight Brussels over gatekeeper label for iMessage and Bing, reports FT

General

Sep 4, 2023

Apple and Microsoft are challenging the EU's forthcoming Digital Markets Act (DMA), which seeks to regulate major tech platforms as "gatekeepers." Both argue that certain services, like Apple's iMessage and Microsoft's Bing, aren't dominant enough to warrant such designation.

Microsoft claims Bing's 3% market share shouldn't subject it to the same rules as Google Search. Apple argues that iMessage, despite its large global user base, doesn't meet the EU's required user threshold for regulation.

The DMA aims to level the digital playing field and will fully implement next spring. Other tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Meta are also expected to be impacted.

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TikTok's EU Changes Set to Impact Advertiser Experience, reports AdWeek

General

Sep 4, 2023

To align with the EU's Digital Services Act, TikTok has updated its policies for its 134 million European users. Changes include an option to disable content personalisation and new ad restrictions for minors.

Experts warn these measures could sideline niche creators while benefiting major influencers. The changes aim to make the platform more advertiser-friendly but could dilute user-specific content.

Overall, the updates are seen as steps towards transparency and safety, likely to attract more risk-averse advertisers to the platform.

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Walmart pays $3.5 billion to increase stake in India’s Flipkart, reports TechCrunch

M&A

Sep 2, 2023

Walmart has spent $3.5 billion in H1 2023 to increase its stake in Indian firms Flipkart and PhonePe. This contrasts with Amazon's scaled-back investment plans in India.

Walmart now owns about 80% of Flipkart and continues to invest, while Amazon plans to invest less than $2.5 billion in its Indian e-commerce platform over seven years.

The aggressive investment underscores Walmart's confidence in India as a key global market, highlighted by strong growth figures for Flipkart and PhonePe in a recent earnings call.

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EU: Tech firms fail to tackle Russian propaganda, reports BBC

General

Sep 2, 2023

The EU Commission has reported that social media platforms are failing to curb Russian disinformation, particularly highlighting an increase on X, previously Twitter, since Elon Musk took over.

The report also cited inconsistent enforcement of terms of service across languages, and claimed this was exacerbated by Musk's weakening of Twitter's safety measures.

Had the EU's recent Digital Services Act been active earlier, these platforms would have potentially faced legal breaches and fines. The Act demands more aggressive policing of content, including disinformation, from platforms with at least 45 million monthly users.

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Beiersdorf Names OMD As Its Single Media Agency In North America And Europe, reports AdAge

General

Sep 1, 2023

Beiersdorf has selected OMD as its exclusive media agency for Europe and North America, effective January 2024, after a competitive pitch process. The revamped media model emphasises digital expertise, data, and technology, aiming for enhanced efficiency, speed, transparency, and automation.

While OMD previously managed Beiersdorf's media in the U.S., parts of Africa, Australia, and Europe, it is poised to absorb European roles formerly held by Dentsu and WPP. Beiersdorf, behind brands like Nivea and Eucerin, recorded sales of $9.6 billion last year.

This appointment marks a notable win for OMD, which also secured deals with Vans and Under Armour earlier this year.

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Meta May Allow Instagram, Facebook Users in Europe to Pay and Avoid Ads, reports NYT

General

Sep 1, 2023

Meta is contemplating offering ad-free, subscription-based versions of Facebook and Instagram for users in the European Union (EU) due to regulatory pressures, according to insiders who chose to remain anonymous.

This move would address privacy and data concerns from EU regulators by providing an alternative to the standard ad-driven model, which utilises users' data for personalised advertising. However, Meta would still offer the free ad-supported versions of these platforms.

These considerations underscore how technology companies are adapting to stringent data privacy laws, particularly in Europe, following significant penalties and legislative actions such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

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Online News Act could see Google and Meta pay combined $234 million to Canadian media, reports CBC

General

Sep 1, 2023

News Publishing

Canada's federal government proposes that tech giants Google and Facebook pay $172 million and $62 million respectively to media firms for news content, under new draft regulations for the Online News Act.

The act targets firms with global revenue over $1 billion and 20 million monthly Canadian users. Non-monetary contributions like training may also count towards payment criteria.

Both Google and Meta, Facebook's parent company, have criticised the draft. The proposal is now open for a 30-day consultation.

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X’s privacy policy confirms it will use public data to train AI models, reports TechCrunch

General

Sep 1, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

X Corp has updated its privacy policy to include the collection of biometric data, as well as users' job and educational history. The information will be used to train the company's machine learning and AI models.

Tech analyst Alex Ivanovs speculates that Elon Musk, the owner of X Corp, may use this data to fuel his separate AI venture, xAI. This theory gains credence given Musk's known ambitions in the AI market.

In response to privacy concerns, Musk clarified that only public data will be utilised, not private messages. The change aligns with xAI's mission to collaborate with X Corp and other entities.

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Google rolls out probationary period for first-time advertisers, reports Marketing Brew

General

Sep 1, 2023

Google is introducing a new policy, Limited Ads Serving, aimed at minimising deceptive ads on its platforms. New advertisers will undergo a "get-to-know-you period", during which ad impressions will be limited. Google will assess user feedback and past policy adherence to determine the advertisers' reach.

The policy specifically targets new advertisers aiming at certain brands and aims to ensure only those with a history of policy compliance are featured. Google will notify and guide advertisers affected by this change, aiding them in becoming qualified.

This move follows recent controversies, including allegations that Google-owned YouTube served adult ads on child-friendly channels, putting the tech giant's ad practices under scrutiny.

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Canada tries to address news law concerns, Facebook not convinced, reports Reuters

General

Sep 1, 2023

News Publishing

Canada has introduced draft regulations for the Online News Act, compelling tech giants to financially support news providers. However, Meta insists on discontinuing its news services in Canada, despite the draft addressing potential concerns.

The legislation, operational from December, aims to protect Canada's media sector from tech monopolies in the online ad space. It encourages firms like Google and Meta to willingly negotiate with news publishers, drawing from their global revenues.

Should voluntary deals not materialise, mandatory negotiations overseen by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission might ensue. The provisions also advocate for the inclusion of local and Indigenous news outlets.

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With TikTok’s new search ad toggle, agency execs see marketers accelerating organic search efforts, reports Digiday

General

Sep 1, 2023

TikTok has introduced a search ads feature, tapping into the trend of younger users utilising the platform as a search engine. This allows brands to leverage both organic and paid search strategies on the platform.

The search ads toggle displays relevant ads to users based on their searches, streamlining the ad process. This user-centric, discoverability approach has been praised by industry professionals, such as Kenny Gold from Deloitte Digital.

The update exemplifies the convergence of search and social advertising. Christina Miller from VMLY&R emphasised the heightened opportunity for brands to enhance their visibility and engagement with actively searching users.

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UK publishers urge Rishi Sunak to safeguard intellectual property from AI, reports FT

General

Aug 31, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

UK publishing leaders have urged Rishi Sunak to protect creative industries' intellectual property rights from AI before a government AI summit. The Publishers Association (PA) emphasises the potential risk of AI utilising creative content without proper permissions.

The PA warns that without strong IP and copyright protections, AI might generate unoriginal content using extensive literary or journal resources. This concern aligns with the House of Commons culture committee's recommendations.

Amid growing concerns, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport aims for a balanced approach, supporting both the AI and creative sectors.

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X Plans to Collect Biometric Data, Job and School History, reports Bloomberg

General

Aug 31, 2023

X, previously known as Twitter, has revised its privacy policy to potentially collect biometric data, based on user consent. This information, which may include facial, eye, and fingerprint data, is intended for security and identification.

Elon Musk, who purchased Twitter the previous year, aims to enhance authenticity on the platform. The new biometrics feature targets premium users, allowing them to submit a government ID and photo for added verification, strengthening platform security.

Following these changes, X plans to introduce video and audio calls within the app. The platform will also gather details about users' employment and educational backgrounds for job recommendations and relevant advertising.

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Google Alleges Deep-Seated Bias by DOJ Top Antitrust Official, reports Bloomberg

General

Aug 31, 2023

Google has asked a federal court to interview the US Justice Department's top antitrust official, Jonathan Kanter, citing his alleged "deep-seated bias" against the company from prior associations with Google's rivals.

This move forms part of a broader strategy by tech giants to question the integrity of the Biden administration's antitrust officials amid intensified regulatory scrutiny.

The Justice Department has previously sued Google for alleged market monopolisation in online advertising and search. They defend the integrity of their investigations against Google's claims.

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Paramount Global Debt Cut to Just Above Junk by Moody’s, reports Bloomberg

General

Aug 31, 2023

Paramount Global, owner of CBS, Showtime, and the Paramount+ streaming service, has had its senior debt rating downgraded by Moody’s Investors Service.

The downgrade, from Baa2 to Baa3, places the company's rating just a notch above junk-bond status, due to its significant borrowing amidst challenging conditions in the film and TV sector. Media entities, like Paramount, are grappling with a shift in consumer behaviour, moving from cable TV to streaming, causing traditional revenue streams to dwindle.

With Paramount holding $15.6 billion in long-term debt, the company's outlook remains negative, reflecting concerns over its ability to reduce its debt burden.

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Judge blocks law requiring parental consent for kids to use social media, reports Politico

General

Aug 31, 2023

Advertising To Children

A US federal judge, Timothy Brooks, has blocked an Arkansas law requiring minors to seek parental consent before using social media, citing potential First Amendment violations. This followed tech lobbying group NetChoice's objections to the law.

Judge Brooks criticised the legislation for its ambiguity and potential suppression of free speech, stressing that while ensuring online safety is crucial, the law isn’t adequately refined to address children's online safety concerns.

This decision highlights a broader US trend aiming to regulate children's online activities. NetChoice's win might indicate challenges for similar laws in other states, emphasizing the balance between child safety and freedom of speech.

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Publisher Adoption for New Video Ad Specs Lags 6 Months After Introduction, Reports AdWeek

General

Aug 31, 2023

New video ad classifications introduced in March to enhance transparency are seeing slow adoption among publishers. The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) Tech Lab's effort is facing reluctance, with less than 30% of major supply-side platforms (SSPs) implementing the new guidelines, primarily due to concerns about potential revenue drops.

Publishers acknowledge the transparency benefits but are hesitant due to potential financial implications. Reclassifying high-value in-stream inventory as lower-value out-stream content could lead to decreased revenues.

Enforcement poses another challenge. Inconsistencies between old and new classifications add complexity, making it difficult for SSPs and demand-side platforms (DSPs) to interpret bids accurately.

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Nielsen And TV Networks Clash Again Over Amazon Data As MRC Debates Adoption, reports AdAge

General

Aug 30, 2023

TV networks and Nielsen are in dispute over Nielsen's plan to use Amazon's first-party data for "Thursday Night Football" measurements. The Media Rating Council is weighing approval, but Video Advertising Bureau's (VAB) CEO, Sean Cunningham, cites potential bias, alleging networks haven't been granted similar chances.

In response, Nielsen, having liaised with NFL networks since February, defends its impartiality. Karthik Rao, Nielsen's CEO, refuted accusations of bias and opacity in their methods.

The disagreement highlights broader industry concerns about neutral audience measurement. With Amazon's data potentially boosting measurements significantly, key figures stress the need for consistent, unbiased metrics in live sports.

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Spotify launches SMB program, reports The Media Leader

General

Aug 30, 2023

Audio Advertising

Spotify is enhancing its efforts to secure more ad revenue from small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) by launching educational content highlighting its self-serve ad tools.

The Spotify Advertising Academy and Spotify Partner Certification Program, available in countries including the UK and US, offer free courses on digital audio advertising strategies and optimising Spotify campaigns.

The move comes amid a 30% YoY increase in SMBs on Spotify, with the platform aiming to boost ad revenue to 20% of its total. The focus on SMBs follows concerns about Spotify's ad revenue growth and investment in podcast content.

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Google introduces generative AI to Search in India and Japan, reports Reuters

General

Aug 30, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

Alphabet's Google has expanded its generative artificial intelligence feature in its Search tool to users in India and Japan, enabling text or visual results, including summaries. Initially launched exclusively in the US, users in these countries can now opt in. The feature will support local languages in Japan and both English and Hindi in India.

This search enhancement is designed for informational purposes, like locating items to buy. It stands apart from Google's chatbot Bard, which emulates human-like interactions and can generate software code.

Google's AI search offering is a competitor to Microsoft's Bing.

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Google's New GenAI Marketing Tools Speed Up Campaign Planning and Buying, reports AdWeek

General

Aug 30, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

At the Google Cloud Next conference, Typeface and GrowthLoop introduced a generative AI marketing tool, designed to accelerate campaign creation and distribution. This solution, integrated with Google's cloud platform, empowers BigQuery users to utilise audience data, generate AI-crafted content, and deploy it across platforms, including Google Ads.

Josh Brisco from Tinuiti emphasises the tool's ability to consolidate various marketing challenges, streamlining AI adoption. However, transparency issues, especially concerning content ownership, remain a concern.

Adam Lovallo of Thesis suggests that the next big step is AI tools crafting video content, highlighting potential advantages on platforms like YouTube when compared to Facebook and TikTok.

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NBCU Names Mark Marshall As Chairman Of Advertising And Partnerships, reports AdAge

General

Aug 30, 2023

NBCUniversal has confirmed Mark Marshall as the chairman of global advertising and partnerships, succeeding Linda Yaccarino, who transitioned to lead Twitter, now called X. Having been with NBCU for nearly a decade, Marshall recently matched the company's record 2022 upfront sales.

Marshall had stepped into the role on an interim basis following Yaccarino's departure and successfully oversaw crucial market negotiations.

Before joining NBCU, Marshall held several sales roles at Turner Broadcasting. NBCUniversal Media Group's chairman, Mark Lazarus, commended Marshall's industry relationships and strategic vision for the future.

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Buyers Struggle to Find Quality Video in the Open Auction, reports AdWeek

General

Aug 30, 2023

Open auction platforms, including YouTube's Google Video Partner network, are under scrutiny for low-quality premium video placements. Adalytics' research caused advertisers to reconsider their strategies, pointing to wider online video quality issues.

Programmatic video faces challenges like muted autoplay and sound-on placement difficulties. Many advertisers now believe a large-scale, high-quality video market is a misconception, prompting a move towards direct transactions with media owners.

Despite these challenges, demand for online video grows, with brands increasing spending substantially since 2018. Buyers are advised to be cautious, use protective measures, and engage in direct deals with publishers.

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UK Needs Tough Rules on AI Using Copyrighted Data, Lawmakers Say, reports Bloomberg

General

Aug 29, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

UK lawmakers from the Culture, Media and Sports Committee are pushing for stricter AI regulations to protect artists and writers' works. The proposed copyright exemptions could reduce cultural creations to mere AI inputs, reflecting a possible oversight of the creative sector's needs.

Amid global concerns, with Hollywood figures demanding more AI safeguards, the UK's aspiration to become a leading AI hub is challenged. Rishi Sunak, however, aims to host the first global AI summit this November.

The committee suggests scrapping the exemptions, encouraging licencing agreements between AI developers and the creative industry. They request a government update on AI's impact on creatives by year-end.

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X will allow political ads again and hire for safety and election teams ahead of 2024 elections, reports CNN

General

Aug 29, 2023

X, formerly Twitter, is expanding its safety and elections teams for the 2024 US elections and reintroducing political ads, paused since 2019. This follows Elon Musk's takeover and his criticisms of the platform's prior political discourse handling.

X's recent blog post emphasises its civic integrity policy, aiming to prevent manipulation in elections and promote transparent political debate. Content that breaches this policy will be publicly labelled and users notified of any imposed restrictions.

Reinstating political ads, X will implement strict content guidelines, ensuring accurate representation. Additionally, a new "global advertising transparency centre" will let users review these political adverts, complying with Europe's Digital Services Act.

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Early Numbers Show How GenAI Can Reduce Agencies' Carbon Footprint, reports AdWeek

General

Aug 29, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

WPP and Nvidia's partnership on generative AI for ad creation indicates a potential 93% reduction in carbon footprint versus traditional methods.

However, the growth of AI, especially Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, leads to more data centres, increasing the carbon footprint due to electricity demands.

Despite the environmental concerns, there are solutions. Training LLMs during off-peak hours and strategically selecting data centre locations can help reduce carbon emissions. Yet, a lack of transparency from tech giants about their data centres complicates eco-conscious decision-making.

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Meta says it has disrupted a massive disinformation campaign linked to Chinese law enforcement, reports CNBC

General

Aug 29, 2023

Meta, Facebook and Instagram's parent company, dismantled a vast disinformation operation linked to Chinese law enforcement. Over 7,700 Facebook accounts and 930 pages were removed, which praised China and spread negativity about the US and misleading narratives about Covid-19's origins.

The campaign, named Spamouflage, spanned multiple social platforms, yet according to Meta's cybersecurity team, proved relatively ineffective, garnering over 500,000 largely inauthentic followers from places like Bangladesh and Brazil.

In addition to global issues, the operation targeted specific figures such as billionaire Guo Wengui and ex-Trump official Steve Bannon. As the 2024 elections near, Meta remains vigilant against potential influence operations.

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US Senate's Schumer to host Musk, Zuckerberg, other tech leaders at AI forum, reports Reuters

General

Aug 29, 2023

Artificial Intelligence

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is organising a closed-door artificial intelligence forum on 13th September. High-profile tech leaders, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sundar Pichai, are slated to attend.

The meeting, prompted by the growing influence of AI technologies like OpenAI's ChatGPT, aims to establish a foundational AI policy. Schumer highlighted the necessity of rapid, collective expert input in this domain.

Globally, regulators grapple with governing AI. Both U.S. President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recognise AI's profound impact on national security and the economy.

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New Zealand plans digital services tax for multinationals from 2025, reports Reuters

General

Aug 29, 2023

New Zealand plans to launch a digital services tax on large multinationals from 2025, following stalled global consensus at the OECD. The 2021 multinational tax overhaul, targeting giants like Apple and Amazon, was postponed as most countries, excluding Canada, agreed to delay.

Finance Minister Grant Robertson stated New Zealand wouldn't indefinitely wait for a multilateral solution. He underscored the unfair tax discrepancy between regular Kiwis and major corporations.

The proposed tax targets firms profiting from New Zealand's digital users and mirrors rates in countries like France and the UK. The bill will be tabled in parliament on Thursday.

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TikTok’s U.S. Future Still in Limbo as Commerce Secretary Visits China, reports NYT

General

Aug 29, 2023

Gina Raimondo's visit to China has reignited debates about TikTok's U.S. status, amid concerns over its Beijing ties. Despite the app's controversy, no conclusive U.S. actions have been taken, and Raimondo is avoiding the topic in China, emphasising the Biden administration's dilemma.

TikTok, under scrutiny for potential security threats, has proposed 'Project Texas'. This plan transfers U.S. user data to Oracle's domestic servers, aiming to alleviate concerns about Beijing's data access.

However, previous efforts to ban TikTok faced legal challenges. The Biden administration treads carefully, wary of a potential digital trade war and its broader implications for global companies and users.

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Movies, TV Shows Available on Streaming Jumped 39% in Two Years, reports Bloomberg

General

Aug 28, 2023

Streaming platforms have witnessed a 39% surge in title offerings over the past two years, reaching 2.35 million, reveals a Nielsen report. When accounting for traditional channels, this figure rises to 2.7 million across countries like the US and UK.

Providers, including major players like Netflix and Disney+, have increased from 118 to 167 in this time. This has led to viewers spending over 10 minutes, up from seven in 2019, deciding what to watch.

The rise is partly attributed to free, ad-supported streaming services. In the US, 60% of May's streaming time was for shows initially broadcasted on regular TV.

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