Twitch's diversification strategy: The livestreaming platform launched a new sports accelerator program to encourage creators to produce sports commentary as the platform expands its sports coverage.
NewFronts recap: Exclusive content on ad-supported platforms, shoppable shows, and creator-driven video content on social media were three major trends we saw at the NewFronts this past week.
Oversight Board punts on Facebook's Trump Ban: Following months of deliberation, the Facebook Oversight Board has decided to let Facebook make the final decision on how to enforce President Trump’s account.
Most US adults are ready for a vacation
On today's episode, we discuss the most interesting findings from Facebook's Q1 earnings, how Apple’s iOS 14.5 update might affect its business, and where it sits among the digital ad giants. We then talk about how many people are using Facebook Dating, measuring Facebook's "potential reach," and Facebook Reality Labs' upcoming smart wristband. Tune in to the discussion with eMarketer principal analysts at Insider Intelligence Debra Aho Williamson and Nicole Perrin.
Facebook's in the neighborhood: The social network's new location-based, Nextdoor clone could capitalize on the success of Groups—if it can avoid content moderation controversies.
Walgreens wants to keep users shopping online: Its new 2-hour delivery service aims to funnel some would-be in-store shoppers to its digital platforms, providing valuable customer data and traffic to its ad network.
TikTok shopping: Almost half of TikTok users say the platform influenced them to make a purchase, which could be attributable to its ecommerce-happy Gen Z users and the strength of video advertising.
New data shows iOS 14.5 can be worked with: While the tides have shifted permanently for mobile marketers, consumers aren't all rejecting the idea of apps tracking them, and some even look favorably on the pop-up request.
Mother's Day spending climbs toward $30 billion
In April 2016, WeCom launched as WeChat Work in China, to only moderate success. The pandemic has turbocharged its user growth, however. The app’s integration with WeChat and arsenal of business features will make it a valuable asset for marketers even after offices reopen.
Andreessen Horowitz to raise $1 billion for third and biggest crypto fund: The VC firm follows its peers in doubling down on the crypto sector, suggesting global blockchain funding will reach a new record this year.
Hundreds of US retail banks to take plunge into Bitcoin trading: Banking tech provider FIS and crypto custodian NYDIG are teaming up with smaller incumbents to offer Bitcoin trading—enabling established banks to compete with challengers like Revolut and Venmo.