Google TV To Integrate FAST Channels
TLDR
- Google reportedly plans to add free, ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels to Google TV, the rebuilt, Android-based streaming platform that powers its Chromecast devices and some third-party smart-TVs.
Brief
Looking to make Chromecast devices attractive to cord cutters, Google has been in talks with companies distributing FAST channels. The channels could launch on Google TV as early as this fall, or Google could announce the integration with smart-TV partners in early 2022. Google is said to plan to enable browsing the channels through a live TV menu on Chromecast devices and serve the channels along with integrated, over-the-air broadcast signals on smart TVs.
- Read the full article from MediaPost
Introducing Products for the Next Era of Personalized Experiences
TLDR
- Facebook has announced new products to help businesses connect with their customers and simplify day-to-day management.
Brief
75% of adults globally say they want to communicate with businesses via messaging, so Facebook is investing in business messaging tools as well as omni-channel communication tools such as email across Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.
- Ads that click to message: Businesses can choose all the messaging platforms where they’re available to chat, and Facebook will default the chat app in the ad based on where a conversation is most likely to happen.
- Chat from an Instagram Profile: Businesses can globally add a WhatsApp click-to-chat button to their Instagram profile — and, starting soon, the option to create ads that click to WhatsApp directly from the Instagram app
- Quote Request on Messenger: Currently testing with select advertisers, businesses to select 4-5 questions to ask consumers prior to starting a conversation. Consumers are then able to easily and quickly request a quote from a business on Facebook by completing a short questionnaire on Messenger.
- Lead Generation on Instagram: We plan to begin testing paid and organic tools to help small businesses find and qualify leads directly within the Instagram app.
- Updates to Facebook Business Suite: Facebook is investing in new technologies, like automation, File Manager, post testing, and simplifying how businesses manage their digital presence.
- Read the full article from Facebook for Business
What is the metaverse, and what does it mean for brands?
TLDR
- The digital revolution is merging physical and virtual realms.
- Facebook established a metaverse division in July 2021
Brief
The Metaverse will slowly emerge over time as different products, services and capabilities integrate and meld together. The term metaverse is used to describe the next iteration of the digital revolution – one that will see our physical and virtual lives fully converge. Many elements are contributing to the makings of the metaverse, including the next generation of gaming, the crypto-economy (including NFTs), advances in technology and connectivity, and the growing influence of tech in our everyday lives. The pandemic has accelerated trends across different sectors, including people’s reliance on technology for pretty much everything, from conducting business to socializing. Marketers will need to account for the fact that emerging digital spaces will not only become a more popular choice for connecting and socializing, but also for working, shopping and discovering new products. But the fact that the metaverse remains fluid and evolving means there are plenty of opportunities left for brands to help shape it.
- Read the full article from Strategy Online
