f8 buzz
Highlights from the F8 Developer Conference
Summary: (1) Facebook will introduce a dating service on its platform, (2) launching a $199 virtual reality headset (which includes experience in an experiential theater for concerts, (3) Oculus TV to stream content from ESPN, Netflix, and more), (4) Messenger is getting a makeover to simplicity, going all-in on Instagram Stories (third parties can create AR filters), (5) WhatsApp gets a few additions like stickers and group video calls.
Opinion: Snap, Facebook is eating your lunch... and dinner. Tinder, they are coming for you next.
LiveNation Announces Facial Recognition at Concerts
Summary: LiveNation has partnered with a company so that your face is associated with your ticket. No scanning of the ticket (or your face) needed. You also be able to buy refreshments at venues using this technology if you have a valid credit card attached to your user profile. It will roll out at several LiveNation venues and its corporate office.
Opinion: I'm conflicted but leaning towards a feeling of violation. How will this work if you sell your tickets or buy for friends? What if I don't want LiveNation to have all this data on me? How do I, or can I even, opt out of it? If it's mandatory for all, will this help from a crime perspective to avoid horrible tragedies like at Ariana Grande and Eagles of Death Metal?
Facebook Will Be Losing Money on Political Ads
Summary: Facebook will be hiring thousands of people to monitor political ads on Facebook. The added cost will cost the company more money than it makes to run the ads.
Opinion: With this platform being a relatively new advent into our everyday lives, it's hard to know what and how it will affect it. Nevertheless, with the amount of profit the company garners, it is the duty of the company to address the issue even if it is at its own expense. I see this is an obligation more than something warranting praise.
YouTube Brings in Will Smith to Show How Safe it Is for Brands
Summary: YouTube brought in actors like Will Smith at its annual Brandcast pitch to advertisers to show that they are safe for advertisers. The platform has attracted scrutiny because of questions of quality. With 1.8 billion logged in viewers on the platform monthly, the platform is still a very relevant hub of activity. They are devoting tremendous resources to help ensure quality.
Opinion: Like Facebook losing money on political ads in the coming future, YouTube has an obligation to its advertisers to allow them to associate with people and brands that align with their particular values. Again, I see it as an obligation more than something warranting praise.