Targeted ads: coming soon to your video-on-demand...
Targeted Ads Coming to Your TV
Summary: A cable company that owns NCC announced it will launch a division dedicated to selling targeted ads to cable systems nationwide. The ads will appear on video-on-demand services.
Opinion: While I like the idea of seeing ads that would pertain to me more so, my concern is that it leads to more information bias. Now when watching ads on tv or ads online, I can come across info that may not be part of my current belief system-- for instance, an opposing political view ad. What I find important is to see how another side views issues and to learn from them hopefully to make more informed decisions. Being served ads that only cater to my likes could block opportunities to learn about opposing viewpoints.
Media Ratings Council Gives Facebook Accreditation for Ad Impressions
Summary: The Media Ratings Council has given approval of Facebook and Instagram ad impressions. What this means is that it has been accredited for whether an ad is served. That's it, not something more like viewability or invalid metrics though this is a positive step.
Opinion: Well, it's a positive first step. As marketers, having validity of more meaningful metrics, like viewability, are helpful in creating more meaningful content and targeting for consumers to meet business needs.
Facebook Scans Messages for Abuse
Summary: Facebook does not listen in on your calls. What it does monitor is "sensational messages" sent via Messenger, which came about because of some messaging taking place in Myanmar serving up incorrect information to people about Rohingya, the Muslim minority group in Myanmar.
Opinion: As Congressional hearings progress around Facebook and Zuckerberg, it will be interesting to see where regulation nets out in regards to the social media giant. Social media has served as a platform and communication tool for many political movements, both good and bad. A level of regulation seems necessary.
Snapchat Augmented Reality Lens for iPhone X Only
Summary: Snapchat released iPhone X specific lenses. The three mask lenses truly do make it look like the masks are painted on you.
Opinion: Although it's not going to get me to spend $1000 on an iPhone X or use Snapchat more, if you already have them the lenses do look pretty cool.