Google embraces AI in Ads

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👑 Amazon Reigns as 50% of Product Searches Begin on the Platform

A PowerReviews survey reveals 50% of product searches begin on Amazon, followed by Google at 31.5%. However, Gen Z prefers Google (38%) over Amazon (36%), with 5% starting their shopping on social media. Reviews and ratings significantly influence purchase decisions, with 77% of respondents seeking websites with reviews. 56% consider search results while making purchases, and 60% viewed user-generated images or videos for product information.

🚫 Montana Makes History with Full Ban on TikTok, Citing Security Concerns

Governor Greg Gianforte has made Montana the first US state to fully ban TikTok from January 1, 2024, citing Chinese intelligence concerns. Potential violators, including TikTok, Apple, and Google, could face fines per violation and daily penalties of $10,000. Despite TikTok's intention to contest, rising US-China tensions and increasing cybersecurity warnings signal a harsher regulatory future for the app.

📱 Facebook Consumption Trends Shift: Light-hearted Posts and Trending Topics Take the Lead, Political Content Declines

Meta's latest 'Widely Viewed Content Report' reveals changing Facebook consumption behaviors. Political content is declining due to Meta's de-emphasis, replaced by light-hearted posts, celebrity news, and trending topics like an upcoming comet. The algorithmic focus has shifted towards Reels and short videos, diminishing original updates and external links; "92.3% of views in the US during Q1 2023 did not include a link to a source outside of Facebook".

⏩YouTube Extends TV Ad Duration, Encouraging Premium Subscriptions

YouTube is extending ad duration to 30 seconds for TV users, with non-skippable ads. The changes aim to encourage users to consider the YouTube Premium subscription plan. The company emphasizes using AI to help advertisers achieve their goals. YouTube's efforts against adblockers suggest Premium may be the only ad-free option. YouTube is working towards shifting users to its Premium tier for an ad-free experience.

🔍 Google Embraces AI Models to Transform Ads and Empower YouTube Creators

Google is integrating generative AI technology into advertising and consumer services, specifically its powerful language model PaLM 2. This tool will enable advertisers to create media assets and suggest videos for YouTube creators. To counter a lull in revenue growth, Google also plans to automate customer service across its products using AI. This move comes amidst competitors, including Meta and Microsoft, introducing AI-enhanced features in their products.

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