Google's Bold Privacy Shift: Cross-Device Tracking Set to Launch in February
Google announces controversial plans to enable broader digital fingerprinting across devices starting February 2024, sparking privacy concerns from regulators. The move will allow advertisers to track users across smart TVs, gaming consoles, browsers and mobile apps, despite previous stance against such practices.
Walmart's $2.3B Vizio Acquisition Sets Stage for Smart TV Advertising Battle
Retail giant Walmart makes a strategic move into connected TV advertising with its $2.3 billion acquisition of Vizio and its SmartCast platform. The deal gives Walmart access to 19 million active users and positions it to compete directly with Amazon in the smart TV advertising space.
Walmart's $2.3B Vizio Acquisition Signals Major Push into Smart TV Advertising
Walmart completes acquisition of Vizio for $2.3 billion, gaining access to 19 million SmartCast accounts and advancing its connected TV advertising capabilities. The strategic move positions Walmart to compete with advertising giants while combining retail data with viewer information for enhanced targeted marketing.
Judge Skeptical of Google's Defense in Major Ad Tech Antitrust Case
A federal judge in Virginia prepares to rule on the DOJ's antitrust case against Google over alleged monopolistic control of online advertising technology. The case could force Google to divest its Ad Manager platform if found in violation of antitrust laws.
The Hidden Cost of Free Email: Gmail's Invasive Ad Problem
As Gmail's advertising becomes increasingly aggressive, users grapple with privacy concerns and data harvesting practices. While the email service remains free, many are questioning whether the trade-off of personal data for convenience is worth it.
Opera Defies Chrome: Pledges Continued Support for uBlock Origin and MV2 Extensions
Opera announces plans to maintain support for uBlock Origin and other Manifest V2 extensions, despite Google Chrome's phase-out. This bold move positions Opera as a user-friendly alternative for those prioritizing ad-blocking and privacy features.
Google's Chrome Crackdown: uBlock Origin Disabled as Ad-Blocking Battle Intensifies
Google has begun disabling uBlock Origin in Chrome, signaling a shift in ad-blocking capabilities. This move, part of the transition to Manifest V3, has sparked user concerns and may lead to increased adoption of alternative browsers.
X's Advertiser Exodus: 26% Plan to Cut Spending as Trust Wanes
A new study reveals that over a quarter of advertisers plan to decrease spending on X in 2025, driven by content moderation concerns. This exodus is impacting X's revenue and raising questions about its future as a viable advertising platform.