The news:YouTube introduced several new ad options and platform updates at its 2025 BrandCast event to display its reach and versatility to advertisers.
YouTube launched its “Peak Points” feature, which uses artificial intelligence to identify the emotional peaks of video clips and place ads within those moments, as user engagement and attention tends to be higher.
The platform also introduced “Cultural Moments Sponsorships,” a feature giving advertisers an opportunity to place promotions “at the heart of moments they care about,” per YouTube. For example, this feature will offer more placement options for major moments, like sporting events.
YouTube is investing in a more immersive design for Masthead Ads on connected TV (CTV), including full-width, animated displays. It’s also testing “Shoppable TV” to simplify the path to purchase for viewers.
Beyond ads, YouTube is launching a weekly podcast chart that highlights top podcast performers, ranked by watch time. The chart is US-only, with plans to expand to different regions.
YouTube shared key data about its increasing Shorts engagement, with viewership up 20% YoY and 70% of YouTube channels now posting Shorts.
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