Retail media is one of the fastest growing ad channels we track, due in part to the allure of closed-loop attribution powered by retailers’ first-party consumer data. But advertisers are starting to curb their enthusiasm given measurement challenges stemming from the lack of methodological standards across platforms. As it stands, it’s nearly impossible for advertisers to compare platforms against each other, which can lead to misallocation of budgets.
The initial wave of excitement over generative AI is fading, leaving many retailers asking, “Now what?” Some might want to look toward Shopify, which is incorporating generative AI capabilities across its platform to help sellers build and scale their businesses more quickly. Or maybe take a cue from eBay, which is using the tech to make more accurate and helpful product recommendations. Meanwhile, Etsy is working to democratize access to machine learning models to help speed up deployment across its organization.
Since Google debuted its Search Generative Experience AI-based interface in beta three months ago, it’s made a lot of updates to alleviate early concerns from testers. But according to search expert Lily Ray, Google still has some work to do to fix issues with its new AI-driven experience. Meanwhile, Microsoft—which is still a very distant rival—continues to innovate on Bing Chat, which Ray called “the best AI product that’s out there right now.”
The country is mandating 90 kW chargers and aiming for 150 kW in high-traffic zones. State subsidies for highway chargers show why success of EV adoption requires government involvement.
Google faces criticism for ending Chromebook support before the school season—with 13 models affected. A watchdog emphasizes potential security risks and need for clearer retailer communication.
Instagram’s Threads updates after dwindling usage, X delays payouts amid other debts, and TikTok modifies its EU algorithm due to the Digital Services Act.
US advertising and PR sector witnessed job growth in July: Amid the broader economic slowdown, how long can the rally last?
Caught off guard by new rules, manufacturers scramble to acquire import licenses. New measures support India’s self-reliance and production goals but could result in tech shortages.
TikTok aims to transform Gen Z engagement into product sales, challenging local shopping apps despite potential future regulatory issues and existing competition.
Toy industry embraces entertainment: Crayola and Mattel lead the trend, leveraging nostalgia and intellectual property.
“Google is facing increasing competition on every front, and a good quarter of growth is helpful to bolster its position,” our analyst Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf said on a recent “Behind the Numbers” podcast episode. She explains what’s impacting Google’s recent growth, the challenges it’s up against, and how the company is bracing for competition.
Chatbots are retailers’ favorite application of generative AI: DoorDash, Ssense, and Shopify are the latest companies to roll out AI-assisted chatbots to deliver more value to customers.
Microsoft’s Azure is under fire for lax security and unpatched vulnerabilities. Rising criticism stresses the need for improved security or face business loss and trust erosion.
Its Q3 results show a near 60% profit plunge to $1.76 billion. The decline was led by its phone and IoT divisions, prompting restructuring and potential layoffs.
On today's episode, we discuss how a new era of social media is rising, whether folks want to pay for things with their hand, when the best time to email your co-worker is, how Walmart+ is getting on, what AI in the home might look like, the most popular cars in the US, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Ross Benes and Blake Droesch and forecasting director Oscar Orozco.
Pearson+ and Mastering subscriptions offer new AI tools and personalized academic support despite initial market resistance. Will edtech competitors follow suit?
280,000 Model 3 and Model Y cars might have steering issues. This latest probe stirs concerns about Tesla’s recall readiness and brand image.
On today's episode, we discuss what Google's Q2 ad growth is telling us, what to make of YouTube's recent performance, and how Google will fair in the second half of the year. "In Other News," we talk about Google rolling out the first step of third-party cookie replacement and what Microsoft is betting on for the future. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf.
Meta is trying to sweeten the deal with European regulators: The company could soon let EU users opt in to ads as it tries to put an end to years of conflict.
AB InBev’s US revenues fell 10.5% in Q2 thanks to Bud Light backlash: The brewer now faces a difficult battle to regain share as Molson Coors, Constellation Brands make inroads with consumers.