Digital Story of the week
In a surprising move, Google has abandoned plans to phase out tracking cookies, opting instead to enhance data privacy through user choice. Originally set for 2022, the cookie phase-out faced multiple delays due to industry and regulatory challenges. Google's new approach, part of its Privacy Sandbox project, will allow users to control their data sharing preferences. This decision ends a five-year debate, providing relief to marketers who feared drastic changes.
Social Media of the week
Meta is broadening access to its Reels overlay ads, now available to select advertisers. These ads, which appear on or between Reels videos, feature prominent call-to-action prompts and can include single images or carousels. With Reels generating 200 billion views daily on Facebook and Instagram, this ad format leverages their increasing popularity. As Facebook shifts towards an entertainment platform, this new advertising method offers brands a fresh way to engage users. The rollout will continue to include more advertisers over time.
Inclusivity in Advertising Story of the week
Channel 4 is urging brands to prioritise accessibility in their advertising with its £1m Diversity in Advertising award. The 2024 theme, "Inclusive by Design," challenges brands to eliminate barriers in TV ads, ensuring inclusivity. With research highlighting 18 million UK residents with hearing loss and 340,000 visually impaired, Channel 4 aims for broader audience impact. This initiative is part of Channel 4's new equity strategy, promising all ads during Paris 2024 Paralympics will have subtitles.
