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.
On today's podcast episode, we discuss the travel rebound and how tech is helping it out, how Black Friday football (with a side of online shopping) performed this year, will X (formerly Twitter) go bankrupt next year, a new way to stream NBA games post-cable, what to expect from ChatGPT next year, why your passport is the color it is, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our forecasting writer Ethan Cramer-Flood, forecasting analyst Zach Goldner, and director of forecasting Oscar Orozco.
CTV competition is good news for advertisers: The rising number of ad-supported streaming options is causing CPMs to decrease significantly.
Apple is targeting 50 million to 60 million iPhone units made in India while also expanding into Vietnam. Its success could attract tech companies moving away from China.
Funding scarcity is leading to layoffs, bankruptcies, and a focus on profitability, affecting future startup innovation and growth.
Is Google’s Gemini a real leap in AI or just clever marketing? The launch boosts Alphabet shares by 5.3%, but skepticism arises amid staged demos and performance issues.
The share of online orders being returned is falling: Consumers are keeping more of their purchases as retailers add friction to the returns process.
WhatsApp enhances privacy with new features: Aims to bridge gap between user comfort and revenue potential for WhatsApp Business
TikTok launches 'Swipe Out Hate' to combat rising hate speech: Like many platforms, it faces skepticism over commitment to moderation improvements.
On today's podcast episode, we discuss what's most to blame for this sustained ad spending rebound, what concerns us about it, and what we expect to see from ad spending in 2024. "In Other News," we talk about why ad-blocking rates are experiencing a gradual uptick and a cord-cutting milestone. Tune in to the discussion with our director of forecasting Peter Newman and vice president of content Paul Verna.