In today’s podcast episode, we discuss what it would mean for your smart fridge to act as a personal food assistant, what if Skydance is unable to pay off its $80 billion debt load, and how conversational commerce could disrupt the third-party marketplace flywheel. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, Vice President Suzy Davidkhanian, Analyst Marisa Jones, and Vice President and Principal Analyst Sarah Marzano. Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or watch the episode on YouTube or Spotify.
In September 2026, we analyzed 5,630 ChatGPT and 5,630 Google Gemini recommendations across five automotive categories to compile the AI Visibility Index.
The rise of AI means publishers need new revenue streams to protect their affiliate businesses.
Brands can influence purchase decisions, though fragmented journeys complicate attribution.
Richer supply-side data can give advertisers more clarity on content quality and campaign decisions.
BofA's accessible program shows the appeal of broader perks, but enrollment doesn't guarantee profits.
Opening iPhone NFC could help rival wallets, but they’ll need compelling perks to change habits.
Many digitally native brands entering the physical world these days are looking to build community rather than a brick-and-mortar footprint. Canva recently staged what it calls the industry’s first experiential upfront, for about 300 prospective sponsors during Advertising Week New York (AWNY). The invite-only event pitched the rise of the "experience economy," emphasizing live, immersive brand activations as the new centerpiece of modern marketing and laid out the company's experiential roadmaps for its events including Canva Create, Canva AI Vision, and Canva Cabana.
Exclusive creator series give brands new ways to earn repeat exposure, though marketers should test impact beyond views.
Universal Cart brings price tracking, promotions, and cross-retailer comparison into one place for shoppers.
Exclusive placements and concentrated reach can help marketers capitalize on key campaign moments.
Its $1.5B insitro deal reflects pharma's enthusiasm for AI despite the lack of commercial payoffs.
Retailers can deepen loyalty with tactile experiences and measure their impact through repeat visits.
Its revised pay metrics reflect changing corporate priorities as businesses scrutinize the returns from costly AI initiatives.
Its management says consumers have already optimized savings, leaving room for deeper relationships.
Disney finds opportunity in Character.AI’s bankruptcy: Unprofitable chatbot engagement gives way to a potentially safer, controlled use for AI characters.
Google expands its health data ecosystem with Flo, Function integrations. Actionable and reliable health guidance will be key to retaining users in a crowded market.
Brands can improve organic discovery by giving AI platforms the images and product details needed to build them.
High-attention CTV inventory gives advertisers a new place to test what AI agents can actually deliver.
AI-powered kiosks appeal to younger diners, but digital convenience shouldn’t replace human connection.