Activision Blizzard one of many deals in geopolitical crosshairs: China is leveraging its antitrust review process to strike back over sanctions. Economic fallout for US companies could hinder tech innovation.
Spotify Live is no longer live: The audio leader has shut down its live audio app after difficulties competing with Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces and plans to expand its podcast offerings and advertising revenues.
The esports bubble has popped: Despite brands folding and laying off staff, there are few places where advertisers can reach gaming audiences.
So far this year, there’s been Google versus Microsoft and TikTok versus … well, everyone. But another battle is emerging as Amazon and Apple go head to head for ad dollars, streaming viewers, and the health vertical.
US may try to kneecap China’s quantum computing ambitions: The government is mulling semiconductor-style export controls that may be easily circumvented. Meanwhile, it could hurt domestic companies and inflame tensions.
Brands continue to engage younger customers in the metaverse: Despite recent setbacks and shifting industry focus, many are investing in creative campaigns and immersive experiences.
The publisher versus platform battle rages on: A lawsuit filed in the UK seeks billions in damages from Google for abusing its dominance of the ad market.
A double-whammy for TikTok: The embattled video app was fined for millions in the UK, and banned from Australian government devices.
50% of Americans support a government ban on TikTok, with higher support among Republicans and older Americans. Continued scrutiny could be TikTok’s downfall.
Cutting back international availability of 23 technologies used in semiconductors production makes future chipmaking efforts more difficult for China.
Through a multiyear agreement, PayPal will become Live Nation’s preferred payment partner.
UFC and WWE look to enter the sports streaming frenzy: The newly merged company will likely try to land several lucrative deals.
Netflix realizes sometimes less is more: The streamer will focus on releasing high-quality films and optimize its marketing efforts.
Paramount+'s partnerships and programming may boost growth in 2023: The streamer's Walmart+ collaboration is getting a national media campaign to boost awareness
Gaming consolidation and the economic downturn hit the industry hard. Startups and independent game studios stand to lose exposure.
Absence of major sporting events, decreasing cable audiences are a bad sign for traditional TV: US TV ad revenues will drop 4.4% this year, S&P Global Ratings predicts.
Twitter recurring revenue plans will likely be a hard sell: Pay-to-play services can work, but only if there’s value being exchanged.
The chipmaking giant is appealing for its government to shore up production on key manufacturing equipment to better compete with the US and China.
Tech’s economic pain spreads to gaming: Electronic Arts lays off hundreds of workers. Hiking game prices during high inflation could hurt revenue and mean more cuts ahead.
Roku cuts 400 jobs in four months: Rising costs and a tight ad market have hurt the rising advertising player, which could make it an acquisition target.