Gaming giants surpass expectations with robust earnings and increased user engagement by releasing new games and expanding into other forms of entertainment.
On today's podcast episode, we discuss how much audiobooks can move the needle for Spotify, how engaging its app is versus Netflix and TikTok, and how much of its podcast success is tied to Joe Rogan. "In Other News," we talk about how badly AI can hurt your company's customer service and why Google has called for a ban on personalized ads for minors. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Daniel Konstantinovic.
Data on troops sold cheaply to marketers: Potential for illicit use of personal vulnerabilities by advertisers
A look at Big Tech’s defense of AI copyright issues: A call for comments on rules reveals the leading AI firms’ strategies to deal with mounting legal challenges.
Record employment for the US ad industry: A labor report shows the industry reached all-time highs, but fears about AI taking jobs loom large.
Walmart will offer sensory-friendly hours at all its stores: The retail giant’s decision to make its stores more inclusive offers a simple template that other merchants can follow.
Google AI-training controversy triggers unionization: More contractors joined the Alphabet Workers Union ranks this week. AI-ethics issues could spur more organizing activity in the US and abroad.
Luminance’s AI proves that it's a bot’s world: Two generative AI models negotiated a contract without human help. It indicates a shift toward automation that could eclipse human contributions.
Retailers invest in shoppable TV ads after seeing early results: Walmart, Amazon, and Home Depot are banking on the format’s interactivity and ability to grab viewers’ attention to drive holiday sales.
On today's podcast episode, we discuss how Snapchat+ is getting on, how much of a focus AR will be for the company going forward, and why user growth is doing just fine ... but revenue growth is not. "In Other News," we talk about the differences between the terms "influencer" and "creator" and what to make of LinkedIn's significant 1-billionth-member milestone. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Jasmine Enberg.
Over half (55%) of US adults think that businesses should take a public stance on climate change, per May 2023 data from Bentley University and Gallup. Nearly as many (52%) think companies should take a stand on mental health.
YouTube’s anti-ad blocking campaign sparks a user outcry: The company is raising ad-free pricing in multiple markets shortly after banning ad blockers.
Bed Bath & Beyond looks to shed its past: The company, previously known as Overstock, changed its name to Beyond Inc. and parted ways with longtime executive Jonathan Johnson.
Musk’s X.ai startup launches ‘sarcastic’ bot Grok: It’s in the testing phase and will be available to Premium users. Expect controversy, content moderation issues, and questions about value.
MediaTek's Dimensity 9300 chip, embedding advanced on-device AI, challenges Qualcomm, invigorating the high-end mobile market and signaling an AI-led tech transformation.
OpenAI unveils GPT-4 Turbo: It’s fueling AI monetization, launching a GPT marketplace, and solidifying ties with Microsoft. It all signals strategic growth and community engagement in the AI sector.
On today's podcast episode, we discuss how social networks could improve society, the NBA's plan to remake its TV deals, US consumers' feelings on shoppable ads, how many folks are "serial churners," how disruptive Sweetgreen's salad-making robot might be, a scientific breakthrough from a 14-year-old, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our forecasting writer Ethan Cramer-Flood, forecasting analyst Zach Goldner, and director of forecasting Oscar Orozco.
Despite a hardware sales dip, Apple’s services peak: The consumer tech giant eyes generative AI and new ad platforms to boost future earnings.
Retailers, advertisers, and customers are at odds when it comes to retail search experiences. Retailers are looking to expand ad revenues. Advertisers need the ability to drive product sales by expanding visibility through keyword use and placements. And consumers don’t want the hassle of sifting through sponsored items that aren’t relevant to them.
Companies hit with big bills over Meta’s ‘free’ open-source AI model: Llama 2’s high cloud costs could be an opportunity for OpenAI to bring new cost-conscious customers on board.