YouTube ad sales keep growing: up 13% in 2Q26
YouTube generated $11.2 billion in advertising revenue during the second quarter of 2026, marking another record quarter for the platform and reinforcing its position as one of the world’s largest digital media businesses. Parent company Alphabet credited continued growth in connected TV viewing, Shorts, and AI-powered advertising tools for driving results. Read more from Variety.
Podcasts get measurement guidelines from IAB
The IAB Tech Lab has released its first standardized measurement guidelines for podcasts, establishing common definitions and metrics for downloads, impressions, and audience reporting. The framework is intended to improve consistency across publishers and platforms, giving advertisers greater confidence in podcast campaign measurement. Read more from MediaPost.
The World Cup broke viewership records. Now what?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup shattered viewership records, but The Current argues the tournament’s bigger impact is the long-term growth of soccer fandom in the U.S. The event introduced millions of new fans to the sport, creating opportunities for leagues, broadcasters, and brands well beyond the tournament itself. Read more from The Current.
Fresh Disney job cuts impact workers at ESPN
Disney is eliminating additional jobs across several divisions, including ESPN and Pixar, as part of its ongoing cost-cutting and organizational restructuring efforts. The layoffs affect a range of corporate and production roles while Disney continues investing in streaming and direct-to-consumer businesses. Read more from The Desk.
TikTok partners with NBA and WNBA
TikTok has expanded its partnership with the NBA and WNBA, introducing new in-app experiences, exclusive content, and marketing initiatives designed to deepen fan engagement. The collaboration aims to help leagues reach younger audiences through creators, highlights, and interactive features. Read more from Social Media Today.
