Video

Gaming has a brand safety problem: Major controversies on streaming platform Twitch highlight the challenge in reaching gaming audiences.

YouTube is toying with its ad strategy. The platform is beefing up Shorts by including ads; it tested users’ ad tolerance by running as many as 10 unskippable ads before videos. The experiment has been a headache for users, but the central question isn't new: How many ads and ad breaks will users put up with?

As Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram chase TikTok’s success in cornering short-form video, the race underscores just how important video has become as a marketing channel.

On today's episode, we discuss why we are heading towards fewer video streaming platforms, what this means for consumers and what this means for advertisers. "In Other News," we talk about what to make of a few positive economic indicators and whether BeReal is about to be copycatted out of existence. Tune in to the discussion with our director of Briefings Jeremy Goldman.

All eyes on TikTok: The social video network says it’s banning political ads and fundraising on its platform, but a poor enforcement record and ties to the Chinese government raise doubts that it can remain neutral.

Streaming’s next big act may be consolidation: Disney looks to gain full ownership of Hulu by early 2024, and other deals could be in the offing.

Reels, Reels, and more Reels: Facebook released an API for Reels, allowing users to share short-form videos to the app from outside platforms.

TikTok swoops in to fill the addressability drought: D2C brand spending increased 231%, but its lead won’t last forever.

Streamers won't sacrifice their brands for sports rights: Disney is keeping gambling at arm’s length while Apple and Amazon run from a Saudi golf deal.

On today's episode, we discuss what to note about TikTok's ascent, how much time on social media is spent watching video, and the discrepancy between TV and connected TV ad spend. "In Other News," we talk about how Instagram Reels' engagement stacks up against TikTok's and whether ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) ad spending can overtake traditional TV ad spend by 2025. Tune in to the discussion with our analysts Jasmine Enberg and Paul Verna.

Showtime’s time may be over: Parent company Paramount is looking to consolidate its streaming brands under one flagship service.

In July, 83% of US adults said their household has an Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and/or Netflix subscription. That figure has surged over the past eight years, up from 47% in 2014.

Qurate looks to new channels to reach cord-cutters: The live shopping company hopes to reverse its decline by bringing HSN and QVC to YouTube TV subscribers.

Netflix responds to reports of $65 CPMs: The streamer said reports of higher-than-average costs for its anticipated ad platform are just “speculation.”

Franchises don’t just rule movies: They’re also ruling your TV screen. Amazon’s ‘Lord of the Rings’ show premiere raked in 25 million viewers globally.

Disney looks to emulate Amazon with membership offering: The entertainment giant could also advance its flywheel by introducing in-app commerce for Disney+ and improving cross-selling opportunities.

Netflix’s ad-supported tier should cost $7 to $9: As questions are being answered, new ones are being asked about the customer experience.

On today's episode, we discuss what to make of HBO Max merging with Discovery+, Apple TV+'s content push, and Peacock's recent struggles. "In Other News," we talk about the significance of the Big Ten's latest media rights deal and why streaming may have just surpassed cable. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Ross Benes.

TikTok and YouTube are taking short-form video to CTVs: Strong viewer growth is making TV screens the next battleground for digital video dominance.