The FCC denied Starlink’s $866 million subsidy due to doubts about its technology’s capability. Broadband access for hundreds of thousands of underserved users will be delayed.
US consumers are increasingly motivated by cost rather than loyalty: They expect perks and benefits in return for their brand devotion.
OpenAI only reported $44K in revenue last year: Despite huge revenue projections overall, its nonprofit arm reported minimal earnings, raising questions about its dual structure.
Google’s Project Ellmann could use Gemini to ‘tell your life story’: It could revolutionize AI personalization, offering users tailored assistance and potentially more value than ChatGPT.
In part two of this two-part podcast episode, we discuss some predictions for 2024 that are too specific to be 100% certain about but could still come true, including: which car company Amazon could potentially acquire, how AI might land itself in hot water, and the next digital consumer privacy lawsuit. Tune in to the discussion with our vice presidents of content Suzy Davidkhanian and Paul Verna and analyst Max Willens.
On today’s podcast episode, we talk about our latest report that looks at new features being offered by the top cash-back credit cards and how much consumers value them. • In our “Headlines” segment, we break down a recent CNBC article about some of the limited-time merchant rewards the major credit cards are offering. • In “Story by Numbers,” we discuss the Insider Intelligence emerging features benchmark that identified 49 novel qualities and carefully reviewed the feature sets of 10 popular no-fee cash-back credit cards. We also talk about free security features that customers value the most. • In “For Argument’s Sake,” our host Rob Rubin has a difficult time staying true to his position (Credit card features are so tempting!) as he debates why consumers feel certain credit card features are valuable and that they would forgo most of them for more rewards. Listen to the podcast with Rob Rubin and our analyst David Morris.
US ad and PR sectors reach employment highs: Robust job growth reflects industry resilience and demand for services.
Surging numbers of ride-hailers create new ad opportunities: The US user base of services like Lyft and Uber grew by 10.1% in 2023, creating an increasingly valuable market for advertisers.
The average Temu user spent 18 minutes per day on the company’s app: That’s nearly double the 10 minutes they spent on Amazon’s app.
Meta’s Audiobox, an AI for voice cloning and sound generation, has potential but faces restrictions and copyright concerns. Future commercial versions are expected.
Three generative AI startups get fresh funding: Mistral AI, Aleph Alpha, and Essential AI draw significant VC investments and signal a shift toward a more diverse sector.
Microsoft and AFL-CIO launch workforce alliance: It could promote worker-focused tech development and pro-worker policies amid concerns over mass tech job losses.
Uniqlo aims to have 200 North American stores by 2027: The retailer’s offline push dovetails with a new report that finds physical stores boost retailers’ online sales and traffic.
Shein is moving ahead with its public debut, taking on some competitors (like Amazon and Temu) while teaming up with others (like Forever 21). Though a brick-and-mortar footprint doesn’t seem to be a part of Shein’s plan yet, it could take a cue from other fast-fashion brands, like H&M and Zara, and establish a physical presence to engage with offline shoppers.
Retail embraces AI chatbots: Gen Z adoption pushes them to the forefront, but blending tech with human service remains imperative
Roku and The Coca-Cola Co. are using shoppable media to target consumers at home during the holidays, while Saks Fifth Avenue and Dior are celebrating 70 years of partnership with a first-of-its-kind ecommerce pop-up. Plus, Uber is leveraging the “Real Housewives” franchise to build up its ad business.
Regulators examine its $13 billion deal with Microsoft and potential control issues. Focus on billion-dollar AI deals will likely intensify.
EU finalizes world’s first comprehensive AI regulations: Rules for AI companies pave the way for future regulatory frameworks around the world but are met with mixed reception.
Investors reportedly bid $5.8 billion to take Macy’s private: Selling off the retailer’s valuable real estate and Bluemercury could unlock short-term value but at a significant long-term cost.
Apple is planning a foldable device. Samsung wants a piece: It could release an iPhone or iPad/MacBook hybrid in 2026 as it seeks to make its mark on the foldable field.