OpenAI working on payment checkout system within ChatGPT
OpenAI is reportedly developing a payment and checkout system within ChatGPT, according to the Financial Times. The feature would allow users to complete transactions directly through the chatbot, potentially streamlining the path from product discovery to purchase. Read more from Reuters.
Nonessential spending slumps amid tariff price hikes
Consumer spending on nonessential goods is showing signs of weakness, with categories like apparel and electronics feeling the effects of price hikes tied to new tariffs. Many shoppers are turning to promotions or delaying purchases, prompting brands to reassess pricing and promotional strategies to sustain engagement. Read more from eMarketer.
83% of Americans say they watch streaming services
Streaming now accounts for 38.7% of Americans' total TV viewing time, according to Nielsen data, surpassing both cable and broadcast. Netflix remains the most-watched platform, followed by YouTube, Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+. The data shows continued momentum away from traditional TV. Read more from The Current.
Instagram expands Google access to public posts to more regions
Instagram is broadening its partnership with Google to allow more public posts to appear in search results across additional regions. The move supports Meta's strategy to drive discovery and engagement outside the app, expanding content visibility to users browsing via search engines. Read more from Social Media Today.
MLB national TV ratings are on a heater at All-Star Break
MLB's national TV ratings are up 6% year-over-year heading into the All-Star break, with FOX and ESPN seeing significant gains. "Baseball Night in America" is averaging 2.3 million viewers, while "Sunday Night Baseball" is posting its best average since 2019. Read more from Sportico.
