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European Programmatic TV Initiative sets out roadmap to growth through reducing friction, reports The Media Leader

General

May 28, 2025

The European Programmatic TV Initiative (EPTVI) has launched a five-point roadmap to drive growth and reduce fragmentation in the region’s programmatic TV industry. The plan includes forming a steering group, setting shared quality standards, launching a certification scheme, developing common frameworks, and running live pilots.

Aimed at improving efficiency and interoperability, the initiative does not seek to replace national models but to create shared foundations. Developed with over 100 industry stakeholders, the roadmap will be followed by implementation in summer and an industry summit in autumn.

EPTVI’s founding members include Google, The Trade Desk and several major ad tech firms.

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Elon Musk’s xAI partners with messaging app Telegram in $300 million Grok deal, reports CNBC

General

May 28, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI is paying Telegram $300 million to integrate its Grok chatbot into the messaging platform, as part of a year-long partnership announced by Telegram CEO Pavel Durov. Telegram will also receive 50% of revenue from xAI subscriptions sold on the app.

The deal aims to boost Telegram’s financial position as it surpasses one billion monthly users and prepares a $1.5 billion bond issue.

Meanwhile, Durov faces legal scrutiny in France over alleged criminal content on Telegram. xAI recently faced criticism after Grok delivered controversial responses due to unauthorised modifications, prompting a review of its safeguards.

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Indonesia antitrust agency finds risk of monopoly from TikTok's Tokopedia takeover, reports Reuters

M&A

May 28, 2025

Indonesia’s antitrust agency has warned that TikTok’s $840 million acquisition of a 75.01% stake in Tokopedia may lead to market dominance and potential price increases. The agency found a sharp rise in market concentration and has imposed conditions, including bans on self-preferencing and predatory pricing, as well as requirements for transparent logistics and payment methods.

TikTok and Tokopedia must submit regular reports for two years. The next hearing is set for 10 June.

TikTok had previously shut down TikTok Shop in Indonesia following a ban on social media-based e-commerce to protect small businesses and user data.

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Perplexity has offered ads for half a year - marketers already want scale, reports Digiday

General

May 28, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Perplexity’s ad business is still in its early stages, with limited scale and ad options leaving advertisers hesitant to invest. While interest is high, the platform has yet to move beyond brand awareness and deliver measurable ROI. Media buyers cite low reach, lack of lower-funnel tools, and economic caution as barriers.

Despite attracting early partners and launching a Merchant Program, slow progress and rising costs raise concerns. With competition from larger AI platforms, Perplexity must expand its user base and ad capabilities quickly to stay relevant and generate sustainable revenue.

For now, advertisers remain curious but cautious.

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YouTube tops Disney and Netflix in TV viewing, Nielsen finds, reports TechCrunch

General

May 27, 2025

Nielsen’s April 2025 report confirms YouTube’s growing dominance in the TV landscape, holding the largest share of television viewing for the third consecutive month at 12.4%, up from 9.6% a year ago.

It now surpasses traditional media giants like Disney, Paramount and Netflix, with Disney trailing at 10.7%. Internal data shows TVs were the main device for YouTube viewing in the U.S. during Q1 2025.

YouTube's presence is set to grow further following a new deal to exclusively stream the NFL’s first Friday game of the season, marking its debut as a global live broadcaster for the league.

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Meta shuffles AI team to compete with OpenAI and Google, reports Axios

General

May 27, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta is restructuring its AI teams to accelerate the development of new products amid growing competition from OpenAI, Google and ByteDance.

An internal memo revealed two new divisions: an AI products team, led by Connor Hayes, focusing on Meta’s AI assistant and features across its platforms; and an AGI Foundations unit, co-led by Ahmad Al-Dahle and Amir Frenkel, which will work on technologies like the Llama models and multimedia capabilities.

No job cuts or executive departures are planned, though some leaders have shifted roles. The restructure aims to streamline development and clarify responsibilities, following a similar reorganisation in 2023.

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Nielsen strikes WNBA measurement deal, largest ever for women's league, reports Axios

General

May 27, 2025

Nielsen has signed its largest-ever measurement deal with a women’s sports league, agreeing to track WNBA viewership across traditional TV and streaming alongside the NBA. This marks the first time the WNBA will receive direct access to official Nielsen ratings, rather than relying on NBA data or media partners.

The move follows the WNBA’s $200 million per year media rights deal with Disney, Amazon and NBC. The agreement strengthens the league’s commercial standing and audience insight.

Nielsen now has deals with all major U.S. sports leagues, as streaming services increasingly embrace its trusted third-party measurement for live content.

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NPR sues Trump administration over funding cuts, reports Axios

General

May 27, 2025

News Publishing

NPR and three Colorado public radio stations have sued the Trump administration over an executive order aiming to cut all federal funding to NPR and PBS.

The lawsuit, filed in Washington, D.C., claims the order violates the Constitution and First Amendment by targeting content deemed politically unfavourable. The White House argues the move ensures taxpayer money isn’t used for partisan media. Although NPR receives minimal direct funding, local stations rely heavily on federal support. PBS is not part of the suit but may pursue legal action.

The case reflects wider efforts by the Trump administration to defund and pressure public media.

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Journalism under pressure amid fear of retribution, reports Axios

General

May 27, 2025

News Publishing

Major media companies are reportedly softening their coverage of President Trump amid fears of political retaliation, regulatory scrutiny, and jeopardised business deals. Resignations at CBS News and content edits at PBS reflect mounting pressure, as networks seek to avoid fines or political backlash.

Concerns over regulatory approvals, such as Paramount’s proposed merger with Skydance, are influencing editorial decisions. Some outlets are also altering policies to align with the administration’s stance on diversity and free speech.

With threats of funding cuts, legal action, and restricted access, Trump’s influence is prompting media executives to prioritise corporate survival over editorial independence.

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Texas governor signs law to enforce age verification on Apple, Google app stores, reports Reuters

General

May 27, 2025

Responsible Media

Texas has passed a new law requiring Apple and Google to verify users’ ages on their app stores, with parental consent needed for under-18s to download apps or make purchases. Effective from 1 January 2025, the law follows similar moves in Utah and ongoing federal discussions.

Supporters argue app stores are best placed to manage age verification, while Apple and Google oppose blanket data collection, warning of privacy risks. The law may face legal challenges over free speech concerns.

It reflects growing concern over children's online safety, as more states and countries move to regulate tech companies more strictly.

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Meta’s Future Lies With Judge as FTC Antitrust Trial Ends, reports Bloomberg

General

May 27, 2025

A U.S. federal judge will decide whether Meta must be broken up after a seven-week trial over claims it holds an illegal monopoly through its acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp.

The FTC argues Meta stifled competition by buying rivals, while Meta insists its market is broader and highly competitive. The outcome hinges on defining the market: the FTC focuses on “personal social networking,” while Meta points to rivals like TikTok and YouTube.

A ruling is expected by year-end. If the FTC wins, a second trial will determine remedies, possibly forcing Meta to sell Instagram, WhatsApp, or both.

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Nick Clegg says asking artists for use permission would kill the AI industry, reports Digiday

General

May 26, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Nick Clegg warned that requiring artist consent before using their work to train AI would "basically kill" the UK’s AI industry, due to the vast data needed for model training. While supporting creators’ right to opt out, he argued prior consent is impractical.

His comments follow debate over a proposed amendment to the Data (Use and Access) Bill, aiming to increase transparency around copyrighted content used by AI firms.

Despite high-profile backing, MPs rejected the amendment, citing the need to balance AI and creative sectors. Campaigners, however, vow to continue pushing as the bill returns to the House of Lords.

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Roku eyes app bundling opportunity as next-gen aggregator, reports The Media Leader

General

May 23, 2025

Roku is positioning itself as a next-generation content aggregator, aiming to become the default home screen for households without pay-TV. With its OS now embedded in smart TVs, Roku is enhancing content discovery through features like What to Watch and Continue Watching.

The company plans to bundle streaming subscriptions using its Roku Pay platform, competing with pay-TV and telecom providers. Roku is also exploring expanding its Sports Zone feature to Europe.

By partnering with platforms like Freeview and Freely, Roku supports free-to-air viewing while strengthening its user experience, particularly on affordable TV models, to attract broader audiences and advertisers alike.

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Google's new AI video tool floods internet with real-looking clips, reports Axios

General

May 23, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google's new AI video generator, Veo 3, is astonishing viewers with lifelike clips that many cannot distinguish from human-made films. Unlike rivals, Veo 3 can generate dialogue, soundtracks, and realistic human features, with accurate lip-syncing and physics.

Though embraced by some filmmakers, the tool raises concerns over blurred lines between real and synthetic content, artistic integrity, and the future of human creativity. Available to premium Google AI subscribers, Veo 3's training data remains unclear, prompting debates about authorship and originality.

As AI videos become more convincing, the industry faces complex questions around rights, consent and ethical use.

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Tim Cook Called Texas Governor to Stop Online Child-Safety Legislation, reports WSJ

General

May 23, 2025

Responsible Media

Apple has intensified efforts to block a Texas bill requiring app stores to verify users’ ages and obtain parental consent for under-18s. CEO Tim Cook personally lobbied Governor Greg Abbott to veto or amend the legislation, which passed with veto-proof majorities.

Apple and Google argue the bill risks user privacy by mandating widespread collection of personal data, even for non-sensitive apps.

The bill is part of a broader push for app-store accountability, supported by Meta and others who favour store-level age checks. With similar laws proposed in multiple states, Texas could set a national precedent if the law takes effect.

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Musk’s DOGE expanding his Grok AI in US government, raising conflict concerns, reports Reuters

General

May 23, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s DOGE team is reportedly promoting use of his AI chatbot Grok within the U.S. federal government to analyse sensitive data, raising concerns over privacy breaches and conflicts of interest.

Grok, developed by Musk’s xAI, has not been approved by departments such as Homeland Security, yet staff were allegedly encouraged to use it.

Experts warn this may breach security and ethics laws, particularly if Musk benefits financially. DOGE’s access to protected federal data and efforts to monitor staff for political loyalty have intensified scrutiny, with critics claiming it reflects self-dealing and risks misuse of powerful AI tools in government.

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German rights group fails in bid to stop Meta's data use for AI, reports Reuters

General

May 23, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

A German court has rejected a request from consumer rights group Verbraucherzentrale NRW to block Meta from using public Facebook and Instagram posts to train its AI models. The Cologne court declined to issue an injunction, allowing Meta to proceed with its plan to use EU users’ public content and AI interactions.

Meta stated that EU users would be informed and given the option to opt out.

The decision supports Meta’s continued AI development efforts in Europe, despite privacy concerns raised by the consumer group.

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FTC drops case over Microsoft's $69 billion Activision Blizzard deal, reports Reuters

M&A

May 23, 2025

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has dropped its case against Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard, concluding it is no longer in the public interest to pursue. The deal, closed in 2023, was the largest-ever in the gaming industry. The FTC had argued it could harm competition, but lost a key appeal in May.

Chairman Andrew Ferguson is refocusing the agency’s efforts on cases aligned with President Trump’s agenda, including a probe into advertiser collusion on X.

The FTC also dropped a separate case against PepsiCo. Microsoft called the decision a win for gamers and common sense in Washington.

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Trump blasts out bevy of threats against Apple and the EU, saying imported iPhones face a 25% hike, reports Fortune

General

May 23, 2025

President Trump has threatened a 25% tariff on Apple products not made in the U.S. and a 50% tariff on EU imports, prompting market declines and concerns over global trade tensions. He criticised Apple for expanding production in India and accused the EU of exploiting the U.S. through unfair trade practices.

Analysts warn Apple cannot feasibly move production to the U.S. soon and that retaliatory measures from the EU, particularly targeting U.S. services, may follow.

The proposed tariffs, lacking a clear timeline, mark a sharp escalation in Trump's protectionist rhetoric ahead of key trade negotiations.

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LHF ad ban delayed to 2026 as government commits to explicitly exempt brand activity, reports The Media Leader

General

May 22, 2025

Responsible Media

The UK government has delayed the implementation of its less healthy foods (LHF) advertising ban to 5 January 2026, marking the third postponement. A Statutory Instrument will clarify that brand advertising is exempt, providing legal certainty for advertisers.

Though formal enforcement begins in January, the industry is expected to voluntarily comply from 1 October 2025.

The delay follows lobbying for clearer rules, with regulators previously unsure if brand ads fell within the ban. Industry leaders welcomed the move, calling it a common-sense decision that supports both public health and economic growth by allowing better planning and continued advertising investment.

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Regulators Are Investigating Whether Media Matters Colluded With Advertisers, reports NYT

General

May 22, 2025

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has launched an investigation into Media Matters, a liberal watchdog group, over alleged collusion with advertisers following its reports on antisemitic content on X. The inquiry, linked to Elon Musk’s ongoing lawsuit against the group, demands financial records and communications. Critics, including Media Matters’ president, view the move as politically motivated intimidation by Trump allies.

The case reflects broader tensions as the Trump administration targets left-leaning organisations.

Media Matters denies wrongdoing and has countersued X, while Musk continues legal actions against groups he claims are orchestrating an advertiser boycott of his platform.

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YouTube Poaches Disney Official, Triggering Lawsuit Against Video Service, reports Bloomberg

General

May 22, 2025

Leadership Transitions

YouTube has hired former Disney executive Justin Connolly as global head of media and sports, prompting Disney to sue for breach of contract and unfair competition. Disney claims Connolly signed a new contract in November 2024, preventing him from leaving until March 2027.

He will manage YouTube’s relationships with media firms and oversee its expanding live-sports portfolio. The move comes as YouTube grows its premium offerings, including exclusive NFL rights.

Connolly's exit precedes key negotiations between Disney and YouTube TV. Disney seeks to block his appointment through legal action in California’s state court. YouTube and Connolly have not commented.

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Google Faces Antitrust Investigation Over Deal for AI-Fueled Chatbots, reports Bloomberg

General

May 22, 2025

The US Justice Department is investigating whether Google violated antitrust law through its deal with AI startup Character.AI.

The probe focuses on whether the agreement was structured to avoid formal merger scrutiny, as Character.AI’s founders and some staff joined Google while the firm remained independent. Google also obtained a non-exclusive licence to the startup’s technology. Though the deal doesn’t involve ownership, regulators are concerned large tech firms may use such partnerships to stifle competition.

The investigation is part of broader scrutiny of AI sector dominance, following court findings that Google holds monopolies in search and advertising. No wrongdoing has been alleged yet.

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GroupM Is Collaborating With PubMatic As The SSP Gets Closer To The Buy Side, reports AdExchanger

General

May 22, 2025

PubMatic is evolving from a traditional sell-side platform into a full programmatic solution by expanding its Activate tool beyond video to all media formats. It now offers AI features to help advertisers curate and optimise premium deals directly, reducing reliance on DSPs.

This reflects a wider trend of consolidation between buy- and sell-side platforms, driven by advertisers’ demand for higher media quality and efficiency. PubMatic’s proprietary data infrastructure and AI capabilities appeal to agencies like GroupM, which values closer ties to premium publishers.

While DSPs are not being cut out entirely, SSPs are becoming more central to programmatic strategy.

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Former Apple Design Guru Jony Ive to Take Expansive Role at OpenAI, reports WSJ

M&A

May 21, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Jony Ive, former Apple designer and founder of LoveFrom, will lead creative and design efforts at OpenAI, shaping its consumer devices and future projects. OpenAI will acquire Ive’s company io in an all-equity deal valued at $6.5 billion, integrating its 55-strong team into the business.

Ive and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman have collaborated for two years on a new device aimed at moving consumers beyond screens. The partnership signals OpenAI’s shift toward mass-market products, with LoveFrom remaining independent and gaining a stake in OpenAI.

The deal is expected to close this summer, pending regulatory approval.

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NBCUniversal Bids for MLB Rights That Were Dropped by ESPN, reports WSJ

General

May 21, 2025

NBCUniversal has submitted a bid to acquire Major League Baseball rights from ESPN, which is ending its $550 million-a-year deal after 2025. NBC’s offer, significantly lower than ESPN’s current payment, includes regular-season Sunday night games, the first round of the postseason, and the Home Run Derby. If successful, games would air on NBC and Peacock. NBC is not seeking international, radio, or highlight rights, helping to reduce the offer's value.

The move aligns with MLB’s plans to overhaul its rights strategy post-2028.

Versant, NBCUniversal’s cable division, is also exploring separate interest in a baseball package but is not involved in current talks.

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TikTok Shop US Employees Told to Work From Home as Layoffs Loom, reports Bloomberg

General

May 21, 2025

TikTok has instructed its US e-commerce staff to work from home ahead of expected job cuts, as the company plans operational and personnel changes to improve efficiency. The move follows recent leadership changes, with Mu Qing taking over US operations.

Despite rapid growth of TikTok Shop, the platform faces uncertainty due to political pressure, including a potential US ban unless its Chinese parent ByteDance sells it. TikTok also faces challenges from tariffs and tax changes under Donald Trump.

With over 170 million US users, TikTok is pushing e-commerce to drive revenue, having recently outpaced rivals like Shein and Temu in sales.

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Amazon tests AI audio summaries for products, expanding tech giants' AI Push, reports Reuters

General

May 21, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Amazon is testing AI-powered short-form audio summaries on select product pages for some US users. The feature analyses product details, reviews, and web content to generate summaries, accessible via a “Hear the highlights” button in the Amazon app. This trial is part of Amazon’s broader push to integrate AI, which includes tools like Rufus, an AI shopping assistant, and AI-backed Shopping Guides.

The move reflects a wider trend among tech giants, including Google and Meta, to embed AI into consumer services, spurred by the popularity of platforms like ChatGPT.

Amazon plans to expand the feature to more products and users soon.

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Google Brings Ads to AI Mode, reports AdWeek

General

May 21, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is introducing ads to AI Mode, its advanced search feature for complex queries, following tests in AI Overviews. Announced at Google Marketing Live, the move offers advertisers new opportunities, as AI Mode queries are typically twice as long as standard searches.

Ads may appear within or below AI-generated responses, such as recommendations for website builders. Google is also expanding ad placements in AI Overviews to desktop in the US, with wider rollouts planned.

Advertisers using automation tools like Performance Max may see their ads appear in these AI-driven formats, which are now reaching users in over 200 countries and 40 languages.

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Google Unleashes Autonomous AI Agents for Marketers, reports AdWeek

General

May 21, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

At Google Marketing Live, Google unveiled agentic AI tools for marketers, including Marketing Advisor, a Chrome-integrated assistant that offers tailored insights and can perform tasks like adding website tags. AI agents are also being introduced to Google Ads and Analytics, enabling automatic campaign optimisation based on user data and performance trends. These tools aim to boost efficiency and effectiveness in marketing.

The announcements follow Google's $75 billion AI investment push.

However, the company faces antitrust trials that could threaten its core businesses, including Chrome and its adtech stack, potentially undermining its AI-driven marketing strategy if forced to divest key assets.

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Meta is about to start rating more workers as below expectations, internal memo shows, reports Insider

General

May 21, 2025

Meta is increasing the proportion of employees placed in its lowest performance tier during midyear reviews, raising the target from 12–15% to 15–20% for larger teams. This follows the layoff of nearly 4,000 staff earlier this year and reflects Meta’s ongoing efforts to streamline its workforce.

Managers are encouraged to use reviews as a basis for exit decisions, although no company-wide terminations are planned.

The move is part of Meta’s broader strategy to cut costs, boost efficiency and replace underperformers with stronger talent, echoing similar trends across the tech sector as firms prioritise performance and invest more heavily in AI.

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Publicis Groupe Acquires Captiv8 to Build the World’s Most Powerful Connected Influencer Platform

M&A

May 21, 2025

Influencer Marketing

Publicis Groupe has acquired Captiv8, a leading AI-powered influencer marketing platform with a network of 15 million creators across 120 countries. Captiv8’s technology enables brands to manage influencer strategies, measure impact, and drive commerce via social and affiliate channels.

Integrated with Influential and powered by Epsilon’s CoreID, the acquisition creates the world’s largest creator network and a powerful, unified influencer marketing platform. This move enhances Publicis’ Connected Media offering, providing clients with scalable, transparent, and data-driven influencer solutions.

Captiv8 will support global growth by enabling real-time, full-funnel measurement and delivering measurable business outcomes through creator-led commerce and engagement.

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Amazon Pitch Deck Shows Prime Video Expanding Contextual Ad-Targeting Capabilities, reports AdWeek

General

May 21, 2025

Prime Video is set to expand its contextual ad-targeting, using AI to assign over 700 metadata tags to its content, enabling more nuanced audience segments beyond basic genres. New categories include Female Voices, High Income Households, and LGBTQ Voices.

This move aims to enhance ad relevance and effectiveness, especially for brands seeking specific audiences. The system also supports smaller advertisers by making Prime Video’s long-tail and FAST channel content more accessible.

These updates reflect Amazon’s broader strategy to grow its ad business through AI-driven personalisation, lower ad loads, and more efficient, contextually informed placements across its vast content library.

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Video is making podcasts a premium buy for advertisers, reports Digiday

General

May 21, 2025

Podcast advertising is booming in 2025, driven by the shift to video and growing viewership on platforms like YouTube and connected TVs. Ad revenues have surged across major podcast companies, with increased interest from legacy brands and new advertisers.

Video podcasts offer higher engagement, brand safety and premium inventory, boosting CPMs. Media buyers cite measurable brand lift and greater targeting capabilities as key benefits.

Companies are investing in multi-platform campaigns and high-quality video content. Platforms like YouTube are supporting the trend with new tools, such as a weekly podcast leaderboard, to help advertisers identify top shows and spend more effectively.

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Coca-Cola grants vote of confidence to WPP with Open X renewal, reports Digiday

General

May 21, 2025

WPP has renewed its global marketing partnership with Coca-Cola, a key client, through its Open X unit. This follows Coca-Cola’s praise for WPP’s “significant value” and comes despite the earlier loss of the brand’s North American media account to Publicis Groupe.

The renewal offers a vital boost for WPP, which has faced declining revenues and a tough first quarter. WPP first secured the Coca-Cola account in 2021 by consolidating the brand’s agency roster into Open X.

The renewed deal is expected to restore confidence among shareholders, staff and clients amid wider restructuring and market challenges.

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Google’s AI Mode Gets Smarter With Deep Search, Agentic, and Shopping Tools, reports AdWeek

General

May 20, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is expanding its AI Mode in Search to all US users and over 200 countries, introducing advanced features powered by its Gemini 2.5 models.

Announced at Google I/O, updates include Deep Search for in-depth queries, real-time visual interaction using device cameras, and agentic functions that can complete tasks like bookings. AI Mode will also support data visualisations and enhanced shopping tools through the Google Shopping Graph.

These features aim to improve user experience and search accuracy, forming part of Google's $75 billion AI investment strategy, following strong Q1 earnings of $90.23 billion in revenue.

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A Federal Judge Ordered OpenAI to Stop Deleting Data. Here's How That Could Impact Users' Privacy, reports AdWeek

General

May 20, 2025

A US judge has ordered OpenAI to retain all ChatGPT output data amid a lawsuit by The New York Times, which claims its articles were used to train the AI without permission. The ruling aims to preserve potential evidence but raises concerns over user privacy, as chat logs, including deleted ones, may be accessed in court.

OpenAI’s request to limit data retention was denied, prompting a scheduled meeting with the Times.

Though the order complies with privacy laws, experts warn it could affect user trust, increase security risks and environmental impact, and reflect a wider rollback of tech firms’ privacy commitments.

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Channel 4 to launch video programming on Spotify, reports The Media Leader

General

May 20, 2025

Channel 4 has become the first UK public-service broadcaster to bring video programming to Spotify, launching digital-first Channel 4.0 shows such as Minor Issues and Hear Me Out. This move supports its goal to become a digital-first streamer by 2030.

The partnership aligns with Spotify’s push into video content and advertiser offerings. While video podcast consumption on Spotify has surged, monetisation remains uncertain for broadcasters, with branded content offering some potential.

Channel 4 has led digital innovation in recent years, but despite high viewership on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, revenue generation remains a challenge for legacy media on social platforms.

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EU Moves Forward on Antitrust Cooperation With U.K., reports WSJ

General

May 20, 2025

The EU and U.K. are finalising a deal to enable closer cooperation between their competition regulators, following a broader trade and security agreement.

The arrangement will establish a framework for sharing information and coordinating on key antitrust and merger investigations, particularly in cross-border cases. Regulators must still obtain company consent to access confidential data.

The deal reflects renewed efforts to strengthen ties post-Brexit and comes as both regions begin enforcing new laws targeting the dominance of major tech firms. The EU's antitrust chief emphasised the importance of joint enforcement to ensure fair competition, especially within the digital sector.

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Google Takes Aim at AI Firms Challenging Its Search Dominance, reports WSJ

General

May 20, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Google is revamping its search engine with a new “AI Mode” that offers chatbot-style answers instead of traditional blue links, aiming to counter the rise of AI chatbots like ChatGPT. Announced at its developer conference, the feature is rolling out in the U.S. and powered by Google's Gemini model.

The update reflects Google’s effort to maintain its search dominance amid falling Safari search volumes and rising AI competition. AI Mode may soon include ads and virtual try-on tools.

The shift follows concerns that generative AI could erode Google’s ad revenue and influence in internet search.

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Magnite Strikes CTV Deal With Amazon Publisher Services, reports AdWeek

General

May 20, 2025

Magnite has partnered with Amazon Publisher Services (APS) to help publishers sell more connected TV (CTV) ads via Amazon devices. The collaboration integrates Magnite’s SpringServe tools with APS’ Transparent Ad Marketplace, enabling access to additional CTV inventory on Fire TV and Magnite’s supply-side demand. This direct integration allows Amazon to operate within Magnite’s platform, offering publishers like DirecTV unified demand and reporting.

The move follows Magnite’s merger of SpringServe and Magnite Streaming into a single product.

APS aims to boost publisher demand through interoperable solutions, as Amazon’s ad business dominates retail media spend, generating nearly $14 billion in Q1 2025.

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IAB Updates Terms for Digital Advertising Agreements: See the Changes, reports AdWeek

General

May 20, 2025

The IAB has released updated General Terms for Digital Advertising Agreements and opened a 60-day public comment period ending 21 July 2025. The new terms aim to modernise outdated standards last revised in 2010, reflecting shifts in technology, buying methods and industry complexity.

Developed by 276 member companies, including agencies, brands and publishers, the revised terms provide a standard foundation for digital transactions, with flexible addendums tailored to deal types. IAB expects the update to simplify negotiations, speed up transactions and better reflect today’s advertising ecosystem.

Further drafts, including one for direct buys, are expected later this year or early next.

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Trevor Johnson exits TikTok, reports The Media Leader

General

May 19, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Trevor Johnson, TikTok’s global head of commercial partnership solutions, has departed after five years. Joining in 2020 as head of marketing for global business solutions, EUI, he took on his current role in June 2024.

Prior to TikTok, Johnson spent 12 years at Meta, most notably as director of global agency development at Facebook and then EMEA director of market operations at Instagram.

TikTok confirmed his exit but offered no details on a successor. His departure follows those of Lucy Banks and Stuart Flint this spring.

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Google Gave Sites Little Choice in Using Data for AI Search, reports Bloomberg

General

May 19, 2025

Google decided not to give web publishers the option to opt out of having their content used to train AI features in Search, despite acknowledging the possibility in internal documents shown in its ongoing antitrust trial.

Instead, it chose a “silent” update requiring all indexed content to be included in AI features like AI Overviews, which has impacted site traffic and ad revenue. Publishers must opt out entirely or accept inclusion.

The U.S. government is pushing for new opt-out rights. Google argued offering granular opt-outs would be too complex and costly due to the need for separate AI models per feature.

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Apple’s A.I. Ambitions for China Provoke Washington’s Resistance, reports NYT

General

May 17, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Apple’s plan to partner with Alibaba to bring artificial intelligence features to iPhones in China is under scrutiny from U.S. officials, who worry it could aid Chinese A.I. development and increase Apple’s exposure to censorship and data laws. The deal is crucial for Apple to stay competitive in China, its second-largest market.

However, Washington fears it may set a precedent of U.S. firms supporting China’s military-linked tech. Apple has not publicly confirmed the deal, while lawmakers express concern over transparency and national security.

If the deal collapses, iPhones in China could lag behind rivals in A.I. capabilities and user experience.

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Musk's xAI updates Grok chatbot after white genocide comments, reports Reuters

General

May 17, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s xAI has blamed an unauthorised software change for Grok chatbot’s controversial responses referencing “white genocide” in South Africa. xAI stated the alteration bypassed its internal review process and violated company policies. The chatbot unexpectedly introduced the topic in unrelated conversations, prompting backlash. xAI pledged to improve transparency by publishing Grok’s system prompts on GitHub and establishing 24/7 monitoring of responses.

The South African government has rejected claims of persecution against white citizens, calling such allegations unfounded.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns around political bias and misinformation in AI chatbots since the launch of tools like ChatGPT in 2022.

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Dentsu's iProspect Wins Media AOR for Dollar General and Its Retail Media Network, reports AdWeek

General

May 16, 2025

Dollar General has appointed Dentsu-owned iProspect as its paid media agency of record after a competitive review. The agency will handle media planning for both the retailer and its retail media network, DGMN.

Dollar General spent $80 million on paid media in 2024, with $60 million on digital ads. The retailer, which operates over 20,000 stores across 48 states, aims to improve media efficiency through the partnership.

iProspect, which takes a human-centric approach to media planning, adds Dollar General to a growing list of recent client wins including Ferrero Group, MoneyGram and Principal Financial Group.

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Epic Games’ Fortnite Claims Apple Blocked Submission, Now Unavailable on iOS, reports WSJ

General

May 16, 2025

Epic Games has accused Apple of blocking the release of Fortnite on iOS, stating the game will remain unavailable worldwide until access is restored. Apple responded that it only requested Epic Sweden remove the U.S. App Store from its update to avoid affecting availability elsewhere, denying it removed any live version.

This marks the latest development in the ongoing dispute between the two companies, which began in 2021 when Epic accused Apple of monopolistic practices over its strict control of the App Store.

The conflict continues to impact Fortnite’s presence on Apple devices globally.

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TikTok Offers to Discuss Brazil Operations With Lula Government, reports Bloomberg

General

May 16, 2025

Responsible Media

TikTok has expressed willingness to discuss its operations in Brazil with the government, following concerns raised by President Lula and First Lady Rosangela da Silva over the app’s potential harm to children and women. The offer, emailed to Brazil’s foreign minister, is seen as a positive step towards regulating social media.

Lula urged China’s President Xi Jinping to send an envoy for talks, after his wife criticised TikTok’s impact. Her concerns were heightened by the recent death of an eight-year-old girl linked to a TikTok challenge.

She continues to advocate for urgent regulation despite reducing her own social media presence.

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ByteDance Aims to Match Meta Sales in 2025 as TikTok Gains Steam, reports Bloomberg

General

May 16, 2025

ByteDance is targeting a 20% revenue increase in 2025, aiming for approximately $186 billion, close to Meta’s projected $187 billion.

The Chinese tech giant, which owns TikTok, now claims over 4 billion monthly active users across its apps. Despite facing a possible US ban over national security concerns, TikTok’s global growth continues to drive ByteDance’s expansion, offsetting a slowdown in its Chinese business.

The firm’s valuation has risen, with estimates as high as $450 billion. However, growth has decelerated from the 29% recorded in 2023, with TikTok playing an increasingly central role in sustaining revenue momentum.

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Charter and Cox Communications sign $35 billion merger, reports Axios

M&A

May 16, 2025

Charter Communications will acquire Cox Communications from Cox Enterprises for $34.5 billion, making it the largest cable TV and broadband provider in the US by subscribers, overtaking Comcast.

The merged company will be called Cox Communications, with Charter’s CEO Chris Winfrey remaining in charge and Cox Enterprises’ Alex Taylor as chairman. Cox Enterprises will own a 23% stake and receive $4 billion in cash. The deal includes $12 billion of Cox debt. Layoffs are expected, and Charter will set up new charitable and employee relief funds.

Comcast may challenge the deal or seek to acquire Cox itself.

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Walmart Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +2.5% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Down By -12.1% YoY

+ 3% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 15, 2025

CNBC reports:

Walmart narrowly missed quarterly sales estimates but beat earnings expectations and maintained its full-year forecast. It reported its first profitable quarter for e-commerce, driven by advertising and third-party marketplace growth. However, concerns over rising tariffs loom, with Walmart warning of possible consumer price increases. Revenue rose 2.5% to $165.61 billion, with U.S. e-commerce sales up 21%.

Despite global trade uncertainties, Walmart remains focused on price competitiveness. The retailer continues to attract wealthier shoppers and grow non-retail income, including from advertising and Walmart+.

Shares are up 7% year-to-date, outperforming the S&P 500. Walmart did not provide earnings guidance due to tariff volatility.

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Trump Administration Targets Europe’s Digital Laws as a Threat to Basic Rights and U.S. Business, reports WSJ

General

May 15, 2025

The Trump administration is intensifying criticism of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), claiming it restricts free speech and threatens U.S. tech firms.

Led by the State Department, the campaign frames the DSA as censorship, citing potential spillover effects on American users. The EU insists the DSA protects users and enhances transparency without infringing rights. Critics argue the U.S. focus on Europe contrasts with its muted stance on human rights abuses in Russia.

Trump officials are also probing whether EU and UK digital laws unfairly compel U.S. companies to moderate content, as part of a broader strategy to resist global tech regulation.

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Meta Is Delaying the Rollout of Its Flagship AI Model, reports WSJ

General

May 15, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Meta has delayed the release of its flagship AI model, “Behemoth”, raising internal concerns about the value of its significant AI investments. Initially slated for an April launch, then postponed to June, the model’s release is now expected in the autumn or later.

Engineers are reportedly struggling to improve Behemoth’s capabilities, casting doubt on whether it meets expectations. Frustration among senior executives has prompted talk of management changes. Despite public claims that Behemoth outperforms rivals, internal tests suggest otherwise.

Meta’s challenges reflect broader industry slowdowns in AI progress, as firms like OpenAI and Anthropic also delay their next major models.

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Apple is placing warnings on EU apps that don’t use App Store payments, reports The Verge

General

May 15, 2025

Apple is facing criticism in the EU for displaying warning messages on App Store listings of apps like Hungary’s Instacar that use alternative payment systems. The warnings include a red exclamation mark and caution that such apps bypass Apple’s “private and secure” system, discouraging users.

Although the message complies with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, critics argue it uses scare tactics to deter third-party payments. The European Commission is already investigating Apple for making alternative app installations unnecessarily difficult.

Meanwhile, a US court has ruled Apple must use neutral messaging when linking to external payments—though this doesn’t apply in Europe.

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Meta argues enshittification isn’t real in bid to toss FTC monopoly case, reports Ars Technica

General

May 15, 2025

Meta has asked a judge to dismiss the Federal Trade Commission’s monopoly case early, arguing the agency failed to prove Meta holds monopoly power or harmed users.

The FTC alleges Meta degraded product quality and stifled competition by acquiring Instagram and WhatsApp, but Meta claims its apps improved post-acquisition. Meta says there’s no precedent for an antitrust case based on alleged quality decline and disputes TikTok’s exclusion from the FTC’s market definition.

If successful, the motion would end the trial and prevent potential remedies like spinning off Meta’s apps. The FTC has not yet responded to the motion.

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Advertisers Hungry for Super Bowl, NFL in Early TV Upfront Talks, reports Variety

General

May 15, 2025

Advertisers are showing strong early demand for NFL ad slots and NBC’s 2026 Super Bowl coverage, with 30-second spots priced at around $7 million.

Despite overall uncertainty in the advertising market, live sports remain highly valued due to their large, real-time audiences. While streaming CPMs have dropped due to oversupply, traditional TV and sports CPMs are expected to rise modestly. NBCUniversal is set to benefit from major sports events, including the NFL, NBA, Olympics, and FIFA World Cup.

Last year, ad spend on streaming surpassed primetime broadcast and cable for the first time, growing 35.3% to $11.1 billion.

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Advertisers hit back at Elon Musk's ad boycott lawsuit, saying X disrupted its own business and alienated customers, reports Insider

General

May 15, 2025

Advertisers and the World Federation of Advertisers have moved to dismiss X’s antitrust lawsuit, which alleges a coordinated boycott via the Global Alliance of Responsible Media (GARM). The defendants argue that X disrupted its own business after Elon Musk’s takeover, prompting advertisers to withdraw independently. GARM, now defunct, aimed to guide ad placements, not organise boycotts.

The filing also cites First Amendment protections and disputes the Texas court’s jurisdiction. X had previously dropped similar claims against Twitch and Unilever.

The case stems from X’s advertising revenue decline following staff cuts and relaxed content moderation under Musk’s leadership.

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Roblox now lets creators sell physical products within their experiences, reports TechCrunch

General

May 15, 2025

Roblox has launched new Commerce APIs, allowing eligible creators and brands to sell physical merchandise directly within their games.

Following a successful beta and partnership with Shopify, the feature is now available to U.S. users aged 13+ in all-ages experiences, with plans for wider rollout. Purchases can be bundled with digital items for avatars, and official products will carry a badge via the new Approved Merchandiser Program. Brands like Fenty are already participating.

Roblox aims to create a more immersive, social shopping experience, and early adopters like Twin Atlas have seen significant revenue from in-game physical product sales.

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The Legality Of RTB In Europe Has Been Settled, And Nobody’s A Winner, reports AdExchanger

General

May 15, 2025

A Belgian appeals court has ruled that IAB Europe’s Transparency & Consent Framework (TCF) is legal, settling a major GDPR case.

The court confirmed IAB Europe is a joint data controller but only in a limited sense, annulling a broader earlier ruling. TC Strings are now classified as personal data, and IAB Europe must gain user consent when collecting or using such data. The framework, updated in 2023, remains valid, and vendors or publishers need not change current practices.

IAB Europe also upheld its €250,000 fine but insists the ruling does not pose new risks to programmatic advertising in Europe.

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DoubleVerify Sues Adalytics, Alleging Defamation, reports AdWeek

General

May 15, 2025

DoubleVerify is suing analytics firm Adalytics for defamation, alleging that a March report falsely claimed its systems fail to block bot traffic, damaging its reputation and misleading advertisers. DoubleVerify argues Adalytics acted with “actual malice” to promote its own services. Adalytics denies the allegations and says the lawsuit aims to stifle public scrutiny of adtech practices.

The dispute follows earlier reports by Adalytics questioning DoubleVerify’s brand safety tools, which led to product updates and a rebuttal from DoubleVerify.

Adalytics is also facing a separate defamation suit from Colossus SSP and potential legal action from adtech watchdog Check My Ads.

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EU takes action against TikTok over online content rules, reports FT

General

May 15, 2025

The EU has provisionally found TikTok in breach of the Digital Services Act for failing to provide a proper ad library, potentially leading to a fine of up to 6% of its global turnover. The law requires major online platforms to ensure advertising transparency to combat disinformation and manipulation, especially before elections. The European Commission stressed the importance of knowing who pays for ads and how audiences are targeted.

This investigation is one of several into TikTok, including a probe into possible election interference in Romania.

Earlier this month, TikTok was fined €530 million for data transfers to China.

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Meta Picks Southeast Asia Veteran to Head Asia-Pacific Region, reports Bloomberg

General

May 15, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Meta has promoted Benjamin Joe to regional vice president for Asia-Pacific, replacing Dan Neary. Joe, previously vice president for Southeast Asia and emerging markets, will now oversee one of Meta’s key growth regions, reporting to global business group head Nicola Mendelsohn.

The move reflects the growing importance of Southeast Asian markets like Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, where Meta’s platforms are widely used. Joe aims to leverage artificial intelligence to drive business growth in the region.

Additionally, Meta’s India head, Sandhya Devanathan, will take on expanded duties covering Southeast Asia.

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YouTube announces Gemini AI feature to target ads when viewers are most engaged, reports CNBC

General

May 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

YouTube has introduced a new AI-driven tool called “Peak Points” that uses Google’s Gemini model to identify moments of peak viewer engagement in videos, allowing advertisers to place ads immediately after these high-attention points.

The aim is to increase impressions and click-through rates, enhancing monetisation for creators. The tool analyses frames and transcripts to determine the optimal ad placement. Currently in a pilot phase, Peak Points will roll out more broadly throughout the year.

The announcement, made at YouTube’s Brandcast event in New York, reflects Silicon Valley’s ongoing focus on monetising AI technologies amid broader safety concerns.

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Musk’s Grok Eager to Discuss White Genocide in South Africa, reports Bloomberg

General

May 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok briefly veered off-topic on Wednesday, responding to unrelated social media posts with comments about the disputed conspiracy theory of “white genocide” in South Africa. The chatbot referenced conflicting evidence and noted the topic is highly debated, despite courts and analysts rejecting the claim.

The cause of the glitch is unclear, but it highlights how minor AI system changes can lead to unpredictable behaviour. Grok has previously been criticised for biased responses, including avoiding references to Musk and Donald Trump in misinformation discussions.

X, the platform hosting Grok, has not commented on the incident.

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Netflix says its ad tier now has 94 million monthly active users, reports CNBC

General

May 14, 2025

Netflix announced its ad-supported tier now has 94 million monthly active users, up over 20 million since November. Launched in November 2022, the $7.99 plan is significantly cheaper than the $17.99 ad-free option.

The company is increasingly relying on advertising to boost profitability and claims its ad-supported viewers show high engagement, even during mid-roll ads. Netflix also stated that this tier reaches more 18- to 34-year-olds than any U.S. broadcast or cable network.

President of advertising Amy Reinhard highlighted the strong attention levels Netflix commands compared to competitors, reinforcing the platform’s appeal to advertisers.

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Advocacy group threatens Meta with injunction over use of EU data for AI training, reports Reuters

General

May 14, 2025

Austrian privacy group NOYB has issued a cease and desist letter to Meta over plans to use Europeans’ personal data from Facebook and Instagram to train its AI models starting 27 May. NOYB argues Meta’s reliance on “legitimate interest” under EU law is invalid and may file for an injunction and potential class action.

With over 400 million users affected, damages could total billions.

Meta claims users can opt out and that data from minors and private messages won’t be used. NOYB insists Meta should require opt-in consent and anonymise data to comply with EU privacy regulations.

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Max Rebrands as HBO Max Again, reports AdWeek

General

May 14, 2025

Warner Bros. Discovery will rebrand Max as HBO Max this summer, reversing its previous decision to drop the HBO name. The move aims to leverage HBO’s strong brand identity and success with hit series like The Last of Us and The White Lotus.

WBD cites increased streaming profitability and subscriber growth as reasons for the change. Upcoming major releases, including a Harry Potter series, are expected to further boost engagement.

Executives say the rebrand better reflects their promise of delivering premium, distinctive content, maintaining a focus on quality programming for both adults and families.

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CFPB Quietly Kills Rule to Shield Americans From Data Brokers, reports Wired

General

May 14, 2025

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has withdrawn a proposed rule that would have restricted US data brokers from selling sensitive personal data without consent. Introduced under former director Rohit Chopra, the rule aimed to combat harmful surveillance practices.

Acting director Russell Vought cited policy updates and a revised interpretation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Critics argue the move prioritises industry profits over public safety and national security, especially for military personnel.

Privacy advocates warn the decision weakens protections against scams, blackmail, and data misuse, with growing concerns about foreign access to Americans’ sensitive information through the data broker ecosystem.

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Microsoft Advertising is closing the Xandr DSP, layoffs pending, reports Digiday

General

May 14, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Microsoft Advertising is shutting down its Xandr demand-side platform (DSP), citing misalignment with its AI-focused strategy. The DSP will cease operations by 28 February 2026, with associated layoffs expected.

Microsoft will consolidate ad buying under its new AI-powered Microsoft Advertising Platform and prioritise tools like Microsoft Curate and Microsoft Monetize. The company has integrated generative AI into Copilot to support ad creation and shifted its retail media efforts from PromoteIQ to a partnership with Criteo.

These changes reflect Microsoft’s move towards conversational and personalised advertising. Microsoft Advertising is forecast to generate over $17 billion in revenue this year.

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Amazon is doubling down on MrBeast despite controversy. It shows how hot creators have become in Hollywood, reports Insider

General

May 13, 2025

Influencer Marketing

Amazon has renewed MrBeast’s competition series Beast Games for two more seasons, despite controversies over filming conditions and ongoing lawsuits.

The show, Amazon’s most-watched unscripted series, garnered 50 million views in 25 days. Though it cost $100 million to produce, it reportedly earned Amazon a similar profit. MrBeast claimed he exceeded the budget and lost millions personally.

The renewal highlights the growing influence of digital creators in Hollywood, with streamers like Netflix and Max now pursuing creator-led content. MrBeast’s success signals a shift, proving that creator-driven programming can thrive on major streaming platforms despite early scepticism.

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ESPN’s New Streaming Service Will Cost $29.99 a Month, reports WSJ

General

May 13, 2025

ESPN will launch a new streaming service named “ESPN” this autumn, priced at $29.99 per month. It will offer all content from ESPN’s TV channels, including major professional and college sports, targeting cord-cutters and new subscribers. The service will also be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu for $35.99 monthly, discounted to $29.99 for the first year. ESPN+ will remain available separately and be included within the new service.

With exclusive sports rights, ESPN aims to stand out in a crowded streaming market.

A planned joint venture with Warner Bros. Discovery and Fox was cancelled earlier this year due to legal issues.

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Google faces $13 billion in EU civil claims after Shopping antitrust fine, reports Search Engine Land

General

May 13, 2025

Google is facing at least €12 billion in damages across 12 civil suits in seven EU countries, brought by price comparison sites claiming financial harm from the company’s abuse of search dominance.

The lawsuits follow the EU’s 2017 antitrust ruling, which found Google unfairly favoured its shopping service. Plaintiffs now only need to prove economic loss. Google denies wrongdoing, arguing its current practices are fair.

Upcoming court hearings in the UK, Amsterdam and Berlin could impact search result rankings and ad markets. The outcomes may set new precedents for holding tech giants accountable through private antitrust enforcement in Europe.

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TikTok, Meta Face Tough Curbs in Asia Even as US Efforts Stall, reports Bloomberg

General

May 13, 2025

Governments across the Asia-Pacific are introducing some of the world’s toughest regulations to protect children from online harm, challenging major platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat.

Countries including Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam are imposing age restrictions, licensing requirements and user verification rules. These fragmented policies could raise compliance costs and disrupt user growth in key markets. Southeast and South Asia are vital to tech giants' expansion due to their young, highly engaged user bases.

While enforcement remains uncertain, the shift signals the region's rising influence in global digital governance and a growing push for greater tech accountability.

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Microsoft is cutting 3% of its workforce, reports CNBC

General

May 13, 2025

Microsoft is laying off around 3% of its global workforce, affecting thousands of roles across all levels and regions. Despite posting strong quarterly results and a net income of $25.8 billion, the company is restructuring to streamline operations and reduce management layers. The layoffs are not performance-related and follow smaller cuts made earlier this year.

Microsoft had 228,000 employees as of June. CEO Satya Nadella previously signalled changes in sales strategy, particularly in response to shifting focus towards AI-driven cloud services.

The move reflects broader tech industry trends amid evolving market dynamics and ongoing organisational reshaping by major firms like Amazon.

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The Trade Desk unfurls OpenSincera, reports Digiday

General

May 13, 2025

The Trade Desk will launch OpenSincera on 6 June, a free supply chain transparency tool developed following its rare acquisition of metadata company Sincera.

Aimed at boosting the “premium internet,” OpenSincera provides publisher-level data such as ads-to-content ratio and ad viewability, accessible via open API and integrated into The Trade Desk’s Kokai platform. The tool supports better ad performance and pricing for premium publishers.

CEO Jeff Green sees it as key to Kokai’s growing adoption, while cofounder Mike O’Sullivan says it will help shift market share away from walled gardens like Amazon and Google by enhancing transparency and campaign outcomes.

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TV's big week is here, and YouTube is a looming presence, reports Insider

General

May 12, 2025

As TV networks and streamers gather in New York for upfronts, all eyes are on YouTube’s growing dominance on connected TVs. Its scale, flexibility, and digital ad tools make it attractive amid economic uncertainty and shifting ad budgets.

TV players are adapting by promoting their own data capabilities, flexible buying options, and creator-led content. Live sports remains their key advantage, with NBCU and Paramount spotlighting major events.

With tariffs and soft scatter markets creating further pressure, this year’s upfronts are expected to favour buyers. The winner will likely be the platform that best combines TV scale with digital precision.

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Amazon's Star-Studded 2025 Upfront Charts Its Adland Takeover Strategy, reports AdWeek

General

May 12, 2025

Amazon’s second annual upfront presentation showcased its growing media and advertising power, with major announcements, celebrity appearances, and entertainment previews. Highlights included a third season of Fallout, the 2026 Spider-Noir series starring Nicolas Cage, and new sports and reality content.

Amazon promoted its vast reach, with 220 million global Prime members and 300 million monthly ad-supported viewers. The company’s ad revenue rose 18% year-on-year to $13.9 billion.

Executives emphasised Amazon’s unique blend of ecommerce, content, and adtech, positioning it as the ideal all-in-one partner for advertisers through its integrated, data-driven full-funnel advertising strategy across Prime Video, Twitch, and other platforms.

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Integral Ad Science Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +17.1% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +736.9% YoY

+ 17% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 12, 2025

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Amazon Drops 3 New CTV Ad Formats Ahead of Its Upfront Presentation, reports AdWeek

General

May 12, 2025

Amazon Ads has introduced three new connected TV ad formats ahead of its 2025 upfront: AI-driven pause ads, shoppable ads for Amazon products, and shoppable ads for non-Amazon brands. These formats will run on ad-supported Prime Video, which reaches 130 million monthly viewers, 88% of whom shop on Amazon.

Pause ads display contextually relevant promotions when viewers pause content, while shoppable ads allow users to add items to their Amazon cart or receive information on their phone. Amazon says these ads enhance, rather than interrupt, the viewing experience.

The announcement comes as Amazon’s ad revenue rose 18% year-on-year to nearly $14 billion.

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Fox Corp. Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +26.8% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Down By -49.7% YoY

+ 27% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 12, 2025

Fox Corp. will launch its direct-to-consumer streaming service, Fox One, ahead of the upcoming NFL season. CEO Lachlan Murdoch confirmed the name and timing during an earnings call, stating pricing will align with cable wholesale rates and existing pay-TV subscribers will not be charged extra.

Fox aims to avoid losing traditional subscribers and is exploring bundle deals with other platforms. The move follows the collapse of joint venture plans with Warner Bros. Discovery and Disney.

Fox’s revenue rose 27% year-on-year to $4.37 billion, driven by Super Bowl ad sales. Fox One will offer a comprehensive content package beyond Fox Nation and Tubi.

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Fox Launches AI-Driven Media Planning Across Its Portfolio, reports AdWeek

General

May 12, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Fox is launching OneFox, a new AI-powered converged media platform developed with AdRise, ahead of this year’s upfronts.

The platform will enhance media planning, optimisation, and campaign automation across Fox’s portfolio, including Fox Entertainment, Sports, News Media, and Tubi. It uses audience signals, behavioural analytics, and machine learning to create more personalised ad experiences and improve targeting. OneFox also supports secure data collaboration through clean rooms and retail media networks. A beta version launches in the coming months, with full rollout in October.

Fox aims to streamline operations and boost campaign efficiency for advertisers during the key selling season.

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Media buyers anticipate a slower TV upfronts season amid economic uncertainty, reports Digiday

General

May 12, 2025

Marketers attending the 2025 TV upfronts in New York are expected to delay media spending decisions due to ongoing economic uncertainty, with many seeking greater flexibility in contracts.

While sports programming remains a safe bet likely to attract strong investment, other areas may see reduced or postponed commitments. Brands are prioritising efficiency, value and the ability to adjust spend later, favouring programmatic and digital channels over traditional linear TV.

As upfront negotiations stretch into summer, publishers face pressure to offer added value and flexibility or risk losing advertisers to more agile options later in the year or in scatter markets.

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Roblox courts advertisers with fresh data on its ad effectiveness, reports Digiday

General

May 12, 2025

Roblox has released new research to attract advertisers, showing branded experiences on its platform deliver significantly higher attention and brand recall than social media and streaming TV ads. Using eye tracking and physiological data, the study found 100 times greater attention and a 211% boost in unaided brand recall versus social ads.

Marketers welcomed the insights but stressed Roblox must offer sales-related metrics to secure more ad spend.

The platform aims to evolve beyond brand metrics by integrating tools like Shopify and expanding measurement capabilities, while continuing to position itself as a creator-led, immersive 3D media platform appealing to Gen Z.

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OpenAI negotiates with Microsoft to unlock new funding and future IPO, reports FT

General

May 11, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

OpenAI and Microsoft are renegotiating their multibillion-dollar partnership to enable OpenAI’s planned IPO while safeguarding Microsoft’s access to future AI technology.

Talks focus on how much equity Microsoft will retain for its $13bn investment and updating a contract running to 2030. Microsoft may trade some equity for extended tech access, though tensions have grown between the companies.

OpenAI seeks to restructure as a public benefit corporation to meet investor demands and raise further funds, but faces legal scrutiny and criticism for straying from its non-profit roots. Success hinges on Microsoft’s support and state approvals in Delaware and California.

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News Corp. Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +0.8% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +226.2% YoY

+ 1% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 9, 2025

News Publishing

WSJ reports:

News Corp reported a 1% rise in revenue to $2.01 billion and net income of $103 million for its fiscal third quarter, with growth led by Dow Jones, HarperCollins and its digital real-estate segment.

Dow Jones revenue grew 6%, with digital ads making up 63% of total ad revenue. The Wall Street Journal saw digital subscriptions rise to 3.91 million. HarperCollins’ revenue rose 2%, and digital real estate services increased revenue by 5%. News Media revenue fell 8% due to weaker ads and circulation, but profit rose 22% due to cost-cutting.

The company recently sold its Foxtel stake to DAZN.

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This upfronts season, NBCU is focused on making existing media work harder, reports MarketingBrew

General

May 9, 2025

NBCUniversal is kicking off upfronts season amid economic uncertainty, emphasising its resilience and strategic shifts toward streaming and advanced advertising tools. EVP Gina Reduto highlighted the importance of long-term brand-building through premium video, despite tariff-related and economic pressures.

NBCU is promoting AI-enabled emotional metadata, Ad-ID adoption, and pause ads to improve measurement and effectiveness. Upcoming major sports events and shows like On Brand with Jimmy Fallon are key advertising draws.

NBCU is also targeting small- and medium-sized businesses with self-serve tools like Universal Ads, aiming to make premium video more accessible for advertisers familiar with social platforms.

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Google to pay Texas $1.4 billion in data privacy settlement, reports CNBC

General

May 9, 2025

Google has agreed to pay $1.375 billion to settle two lawsuits brought by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over alleged violations of residents’ data privacy rights. The lawsuits accused Google of secretly tracking users’ movements, searches, and biometric data.

Paxton hailed the deal as the largest of its kind in the US and a major win for consumer privacy. Google denies any wrongdoing and says no product changes are required as part of the settlement, noting that the relevant policies had already been updated.

The settlement follows a similar $1.4 billion agreement with Meta last year over biometric data use.

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Google Faces Potential $3.3 Billion Antitrust Lawsuit in Italy, reports WSJ

General

May 9, 2025

Italy’s Moltiply Group is suing Google for €2.97 billion, accusing it of anti-competitive behaviour that harmed its comparison site Trovaprezzi.it, run by subsidiary 7Pixel.

The claim, filed in reliance on a 2017 European Commission ruling upheld in 2024, alleges that Google unfairly promoted its own shopping service over rivals between 2010 and 2017.

Google said it is reviewing the case and stands by the effectiveness of the changes it implemented after the ruling. A spokesperson rejected the damages claim, saying it overlooks the success of the price comparison market.

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GroupM US Staff Told Up to 45% Will Be Impacted by Restructure, reports AdWeek

General

May 9, 2025

GroupM North America CEO Sharb Farjami told staff that an organisational restructure will impact 40–45% of its U.S. workforce, though the company claims this refers to team integration, not job cuts.

The restructure includes forming a new Media Management and Delivery unit by merging investment, Nexus, and campaign reporting functions, as part of a broader shift to a single operating model. While agency brands will remain, they will no longer function as separate business units.

Layoffs have already begun, with further changes expected. GroupM is offering employee support and emphasises the restructure as preparation for an AI-led future in media.

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Reddit Targets Small Businesses With New Advertising Tools, reports AdWeek

General

May 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Tree Amigos, a tree service company in Austin, now gains around 90% of its new business via Reddit, having shifted from relying on word-of-mouth and Nextdoor. Reddit sees this as a case study in how the platform supports small businesses, with 40% of monthly discussions being commercial in nature.

Reddit has introduced AI-powered tools within Reddit Pro to simplify business use, including auto-generated profiles and curated post highlights.

Tree Amigos co-owner Andrew Anstrom uses Reddit for informative engagement, which boosted their Google profile traffic by 70%, showing the impact of authentic interactions and Reddit’s increased prominence in search results.

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S4 Capital trades billable hours for outputs as AI redraws agency economics, reports Digiday

General

May 9, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

S4 Capital CEO Sir Martin Sorrell says AI is reshaping the advertising industry’s commercial models, prompting a shift from time-based fees to output-driven pricing. As automation reduces production time, marketers expect lower fees, forcing agencies to adapt.

While S4 is cautiously piloting AI, Sorrell believes increased output and better quality could boost revenue despite falling prices per asset. He predicts legacy agency models will give way to smaller, AI-powered firms.

Though AI isn’t yet a major revenue driver, CMOs are beginning to rethink agency compensation, favouring value and results over hours worked — a shift Sorrell sees as a major opportunity.

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PubMatic Earnings For Q1 2025 Show -4.3% YoY Revenue Decline, Net Loss Up By +286.6% YoY

-4% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

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Pinterest Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +15.5% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +136.0% YoY

+ 16% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

Artificial Intelligence

Reuters reports:

Pinterest shares surged over 11% following a strong quarterly revenue forecast, easing investor concerns over ad spend amid global economic instability.

The platform’s improved AI tools and growing Gen Z audience have boosted advertiser appeal. Monthly active users rose 10% year-on-year to 570 million, surpassing expectations. Despite reduced ad spend from Asian e-commerce firms like Temu and Shein due to tariff changes, analysts praised Pinterest’s AI and international strategy. While e-commerce advertising may weaken later in 2024, Pinterest’s performance positions it alongside strong peers like Meta and Reddit.

The share price rise could add $2 billion to its market capitalisation.

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The Trade Desk Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +25.4% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Up By +60.1% YoY

+ 25% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

AdExchanger reports:

The Trade Desk rebounded from a weak Q4 with a strong first-quarter performance, reporting $616 million in revenue and $50.7 million in net income, beating analysts’ expectations and lifting its share price by over 20%.

CEO Jeff Green emphasised the growing strength of open internet programmatic advertising as regulatory pressure forces walled gardens like Google, Meta, and Apple to become more transparent. Green also downplayed Amazon’s competitive threat, noting conflicts with advertisers.

The company is pushing products like OpenPath and Kokai to simplify the supply chain and improve efficiency, aiming to rival the ease and performance advantages of closed ecosystems.

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Warner Bros. Discovery Earnings For Q1 2025 Show -9.8% YoY Revenue Decline, Net Loss Down By -53.0% YoY

-10% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

Bloomberg reports:

Warner Bros. Discovery reported lower-than-expected first-quarter results, with revenue of $8.98 billion falling short of the $9.61 billion forecast, and an adjusted loss of 18 cents per share versus an expected 11 cents.

Despite this, the company added 5.3 million streaming subscribers, bringing its total to 122.3 million, exceeding estimates. Its direct-to-consumer division, including Max, posted a $339 million profit, boosted by the success of The White Lotus. Advertising revenue reached $1.98 billion. The studios division underperformed, with $2.31 billion in revenue, as the sci-fi film Mickey 17 fell short.

Proposed US tariffs on foreign films may further impact the sector.

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Paramount Earnings For Q1 2025 Show -6.4% YoY Revenue Decline, Net Income Up By +129.6% YoY

6% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

Bloomberg reports:

Paramount Global exceeded first-quarter expectations with $7.19 billion in revenue and earnings of 29 cents per share, driven by strong performance from its Paramount+ streaming service, which added 1.5 million subscribers.

Despite a decline in TV advertising and pay-TV revenue, the direct-to-consumer division saw a 9% sales increase and reduced losses. Filmed entertainment revenue rose 4% to $627 million. Comparisons to last year were affected by CBS’s Super Bowl coverage.

Paramount is awaiting regulatory approval for its merger with Skydance Media and is facing a lawsuit from Donald Trump amid uncertainty around potential new U.S. film import tariffs.

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DoubleVerify Earnings For Q1 2025 Show +17.2% YoY Revenue Growth, Net Income Down By -67.0% YoY

+ 17% YoY Opinions

Earnings

May 8, 2025

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Instagram Chief Says App Has Feared TikTok Threat for Years, reports Bloomberg

General

May 8, 2025

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri testified in a US antitrust trial that Instagram has shifted focus from friends and family content to video, in response to competition from TikTok. Only one in six Stories now feature personal connections.

Meta argues this shift reflects a rapidly evolving social media landscape, disputing claims it holds a monopoly. Internal documents presented in court show TikTok caused a 40% decline in Instagram engagement in 2019. Mosseri defended Meta’s investment in video and AI, while acknowledging past underinvestment in safety.

The FTC is seeking to break up Meta by proving it dominates personal social networking services.

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Meta Taps New Head of AI Lab After Staffer’s Return From Google, reports Bloomberg

General

May 8, 2025

Leadership Transitions

Meta has appointed Robert Fergus as head of its AI research lab, FAIR, succeeding Joelle Pineau. Fergus, who co-founded FAIR in 2014 alongside Yann LeCun, recently returned to Meta after nearly five years at Alphabet’s DeepMind. He had been working on generative AI and Llama model personalisation before his promotion. FAIR focuses on long-term AI research, including robotics, image understanding, and audio generation.

Chief Product Officer Chris Cox announced the appointment following an extensive search, praising Fergus as a standout candidate.

Meta plans to invest heavily in AI, with FAIR playing a central role in advancing future AI capabilities.

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