Social Media

Threads' ‘Topics’ feature enhances discoverability, allows political content under guidelines: Meta adapts to user feedback, pushing it closer to X.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss whether Meta has officially turned things around, just how big Instagram has gotten, and whether Threads can turn itself into a viable X (formerly Twitter) alternative. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Jasmine Enberg and Max Willens.

Walgreens’ Nice! brand mango gummies went viral: An influencer’s TikTok video about the candy drove a surge in demand, offering a case study on why private label sales are soaring.

X introduces BetMGM betting odds: The platform aims to become more fo a sports betting hub amid regulatory complexities.

Strategic partnerships boost Pinterest: Amazon and Google deals fuel revenue and international expansion—while MAUs nearly hit 500 million for the first time.

Meta and TikTok swing back at EU regulators: The social companies are objecting to fines under the Digital Services Act, setting the stage for a wider conflict.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss Facebook turning 20 years old. We look back at how Facebook got started, its most significant highs and lows over the years, and predict what the social media giant will look like at age 30. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Jasmine Enberg and Minda Smiley.

Marketing & Advertising Briefing, Esumm Meta's 2023 revenues spiked thanks to Chinese advertisers like Temu and Shein: Concerns over sustainability and market overdependence are reasonable.

While influencers bring authenticity and engaged audiences to partnerships,to create the best campaigns, brands need to uphold their side of influencer marketing relationships. “Affiliate creators want and desire deeper or more lasting, sustainable partnerships with brands,” Mike Balducci, general manager of affiliate, ecommerce, and payment solutions at CreatorIQ, said during a CreatorIQ and Ipsos webinar last week. “That’s actually really great news for brands because long-term partnerships, as we know, deliver a much better result over time.”

47% of US digital media professionals think social media will face serious challenges in the next 12 months, per a September 2023 Integral Ad Science survey by YouGov.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss whether Google's recent performance was actually good (or not), how YouTube turned things around, and what could trip up the digital giant in 2024. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf.

YouTube TV surges to 8 million subscribers: Google’s diversification strategy is paying off as it keeps a finger on the pulse of consumers’ digital entertainment preferences.

Zuck is reading our 20-year-old Facebook posts: He says they’re being used to train AI models, but it raises a key question about who owns the content.

Snap lays off 10% as its ad revenues struggle: The company is signaling a cost-cutting effort to investors as it tries to diversify beyond advertising.

Super Bowl ads pack stars and influencers: It’s a strategic blend aiming to charm Gen Z and boost brands beyond TV.

Snapchat's Q4 growth amid cuts: User base expands and revenues climb, but staff reductions and geographic revenue disparities pose challenges.

While some were skeptical of Temu’s staying power, the app’s low prices and social-first marketing strategy seem to be resonating with consumers. Opening its platform to US sellers could bring competition for Temu at a time when consumer perception is flagging.

The vast majority (81.5%) of retail media ad spend will go toward on-site formats this year, per our October 2023 forecast. As advertisers seek to target consumers whenever and wherever possible, other formats are emerging, particularly in-store, streaming, and social.

Meta’s Q4 shows the year of efficiency was a success: The company’s revenues surged in 2023, thanks in part to Chinese retailers, while headcount dropped.