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# Universal Media, Inc.

UMI

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## Posts

- [Top Takes: Week of 4/20/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-20-26/) - Judge pauses Nexstar-Tegna merger A federal judge has ordered Nexstar and Tegna to pause their proposed merger while antitrust and regulatory reviews continue. The ruling temporarily halts one of the largest pending media consolidation deals as officials evaluate its potential impact on competition and local broadcasting. Read more from Axios. Ad-supported tiers generate more than
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/27/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-27-26/) - Google tests AI-powered “Ask YouTube” search Google is testing a new “Ask YouTube” feature that lets users search video content through conversational AI. The tool can answer questions, identify relevant moments within videos, and suggest follow-up prompts, making it easier to find information without manually scrubbing through content. Read more from Search Engine Journal. Pinterest
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/4/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-4-26/) - IAB: Digital video ad spending to top $81 billion in 2026 The IAB projects U.S. digital video advertising will surpass $81 billion in 2026, driven by continued growth in connected TV, streaming, and social video. Advertisers are increasingly shifting budgets toward premium digital video formats that combine audience targeting with measurable performance. Read more from
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/11/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-11-26/) - CTV ads drive significant increases in AI brand searches New BrightEdge research cited by The Current suggests connected TV advertising can meaningfully increase branded searches within AI platforms after viewers are exposed to campaigns. The findings point to CTV influencing not only traditional search behavior but also discovery through AI assistants. Read more from The
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/18/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-18-26/) - Streaming gains viewership in March: Nielsen Nielsen’s March report shows streaming increased its share of total TV viewing to 47.6%, while cable received a temporary boost from March Madness and news coverage. YouTube remained the largest streaming platform, with Netflix holding second place and Roku posting the fastest year-over-year growth among major streamers. Read more
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/25/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-25-26/) - OpenAI confirms conversion-focused ads are coming to ChatGPT OpenAI has confirmed it will launch conversion-optimized advertising campaigns in ChatGPT, marking its biggest step yet into performance advertising. The rollout positions OpenAI to compete more directly with Google and Meta for digital advertising budgets. Read more from Search Engine Land. Meta explores new subscription ecosystem Meta
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/1/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-1-26/) - 80% of Americans watch or listen to podcasts: study A new Triton Digital study found that podcast consumption continues to grow across both audio and video, with 80% of Americans now engaging with podcasts by watching, listening, or both. Comedy, news, and culture remain the most popular genres, underscoring podcasts’ growing role in mainstream media
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/8/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-8-26/) - Nielsen announces new data partnerships Nielsen has expanded its audience measurement capabilities through new data partnerships that improve tracking across linear TV, streaming, and digital platforms. The integrations are designed to give advertisers and publishers a more unified view of audiences as viewing habits become increasingly fragmented. Read more from TV Technology. New York requires
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/15/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-15-26/) - Fox announces plans to acquire Roku for $22 billion Fox has announced plans to acquire Roku in a $22 billion deal, combining a major media company with North America’s leading connected TV platform. The acquisition would strengthen Fox’s position in streaming by adding Roku’s advertising technology, distribution capabilities, and audience data. Read more from AdExchanger.
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/22/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-22-26/) - Study: Younger viewers more distracted, but more receptive to ads A new study finds younger audiences are more likely than older viewers to respond positively to advertising, even though they frequently multitask while watching content. The findings suggest marketers should focus on creative that captures attention quickly across multiple screens. Read more from TV Technology.
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/29/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-29-26/) - Comcast eyes NBCUniversal spinoff from core business Comcast is reportedly considering separating NBCUniversal from its traditional cable business as the media industry continues shifting toward streaming. The move would give NBCUniversal’s broadcast, streaming, and studio assets greater independence while insulating them from ongoing declines in the pay TV market. Read more from Sportico. Dish Network
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/6/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-6-26/) - The AI commerce war will be fought at checkout As AI assistants take on more product discovery, the next competitive battleground is shifting to checkout. Retailers, payment providers, and marketplaces are racing to own the transaction, making seamless purchasing a key advantage in the emerging AI commerce landscape. Read more from The Current. Majority of
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/13/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-13-26/) - Meta to overtake Google in ad revenues for the first time ever eMarketer projects Meta will surpass Google in digital ad revenue, driven by growth in social, video, and AI-powered ad tools. The shift signals changing advertiser priorities toward platforms that blend discovery with performance. Read more from eMarketer. Netflix to refocus on ads, content
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/6/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-6-26/) - 80% of Americans both watch and listen to podcasts: study Podcast consumption continues to expand, with 80% of Americans now engaging with the format across audio and video. Growth is being fueled by wider distribution on platforms like YouTube and streaming services, making podcasts a more mainstream media channel. Read more from The Current. Grocers
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/30/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-30-26/) - Consumers turn to AI for advice, less for management: study New research shows consumers are increasingly using AI as a daily assistant for tasks like planning and writing, but remain hesitant to trust it with major life decisions. The findings highlight a growing comfort with AI in low-risk scenarios, while a trust gap persists for
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/23/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-23-26/) - OpenAI revamps shopping experience in ChatGPT OpenAI has updated ChatGPT’s shopping experience to focus more on product discovery, comparisons, and curated recommendations. The shift moves away from immediate transactions toward a more guided, research-first user journey. Read more from CNBC. Google releases March 2026 spam update Google’s March 2026 spam update targets low-quality and manipulative
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/16/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-16-26/) - U.S. podcast and online audio consumption reach record highs Edison Research’s Infinite Dial 2026 report shows podcast listening and online audio usage hitting record levels in the U.S. Monthly podcast reach now exceeds half the population, with mobile and in-car listening driving continued growth. Read more from PodNews. Google AI overviews are more friendly to
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/9/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-9-26/) - Eight out of ten PMax advertisers are now running CTV ads About 80% of advertisers using Google Performance Max campaigns are now incorporating connected TV ads. The shift shows CTV becoming a standard part of automated, cross-channel ad strategies beyond search and display. Read more from Search Engine Land. ‘There’s no playbook’: Inside Netflix’s quest
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/2/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-2-26/) - 3 stats showing what a Paramount-Warner Bros. giant could look like The Current highlights three key metrics showing how a combined Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery could compete with Netflix and Disney. The merged entity would gain scale in viewing time, content, and negotiating power with advertisers and distributors. Read more from The Current. Meta
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/23/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-23-26/) - Winter Olympics U.S. viewing best since 2014 U.S. viewership for the Winter Olympics has nearly doubled compared with the previous Games, reaching its highest level since 2014. Growth has been driven by expanded streaming on Peacock alongside strong prime-time broadcast audiences. Read more from TVTechnology. Google Discover Update: Localized Search, Fewer Domains Early data suggests
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/16/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-16-26/) - Airbnb says AI chatbot traffic converts better than Google Airbnb reports that visitors arriving via AI chatbots convert at higher rates than traditional Google referrals. Executives say conversational AI users often show clearer intent and are further along in the booking journey. Read more from MarTech. Perplexity stops testing advertising Perplexity has paused its advertising
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/9/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-9-26/) - How Gen Z uses Gen AI—and why it worries them Gen Z is turning to generative AI for brainstorming, explaining concepts, and refining writing, often treating it like a round-the-clock tutor. At the same time, many express concern about accuracy, privacy, and overreliance on the technology. Read more from Harvard Business Review. How live sports
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/2/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-2-26/) - NBCUniversal’s Winter Olympics expect record number of new programmatic advertisers NBCUniversal says the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics are attracting a record number of programmatic advertisers, expanding from one DSP partner in Paris 2024 to seven for the upcoming Games. Peacock’s advertiser base has grown, and many programmatic buyers in Paris were first-time Olympic advertisers. Read
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/26/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-26-26/) - IAB: U.S. ad spend to spike by 9.5% in 2026 as AI powers marketing efforts The IAB projects U.S. ad spend will grow 9.5% in 2026, fueled by AI in planning, activation, and measurement, along with cyclical events like the midterms and Olympics. Social, connected TV, and commerce media are expected to post double-digit gains,
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/22/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-22-25/) - The 6 biggest ad tech stories of the year — and what they mean for 2026 The Current highlights six major forces shaping marketing in 2026, from AI-powered ad tools to the growth of connected TV. The piece calls for smarter planning through automation and transparency as platforms consolidate power and new measurement norms take
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/19/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-19-26/) - Google brings Personal Intelligence to AI Mode in Google Search Google’s AI Mode in Search now includes “personal intelligence,” allowing users to connect apps like Gmail and Calendar for more personalized, context-aware answers. Participation is optional, giving users greater control over their data. Read more from Search Engine Land. Netflix more than doubled its ad
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/12/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-12-26/) - Apple picks Google’s Gemini to run AI-powered Siri coming this year Apple is in talks with Google to bring Gemini AI to Siri, possibly alongside its own models. The move shows Apple’s intent to accelerate AI on iOS while keeping privacy controls and user experience at the forefront. Read more from CNBC. Retail media invests
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/5/26](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-5-26/) - Smart TVs are primary streaming devices in homes: study Smart TVs have overtaken dedicated streaming boxes and consoles as the top streaming device in U.S. homes. Built-in apps and platforms are fueling adoption, making smart TV data and ecosystem partnerships vital for advertisers. Read more from TheDesk. Publishers back OpenAds to bring transparency to programmatic
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/29/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-29-25/) - The year AI shaped marketing and media Executives reflect on how AI is transforming media planning, production, and personalization heading into 2026. Brands are using AI to optimize performance and streamline creative workflows across channels. Read more from The Current. Disney moving forward with shutdown of Hulu app Disney is phasing out the standalone Hulu
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/15/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-15-25/) - AI agents and tighter budgets are reshaping holiday retail media Retail media is becoming the go-to ad channel this holiday season as AI shopping tools and cautious spending shape brand strategies. A forecast projects global retail media spend will top $196.7 billion in 2026, surpassing TV. Success hinges on speed and data precision. Read more
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/13/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-13-25/) - Purchase intent jumps 40% when ads appear in premium media: study New research from PA Consulting and The Trade Desk finds that ads placed in premium media environments drive a 40% increase in purchase intent. The study links trusted, high-quality content settings to stronger brand impact and better ad performance. Read more from The Current.
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/20/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-20-25/) - Google holding on to market share in search Google retained roughly 90% of global search traffic in September, maintaining its lead despite growing interest in AI-powered platforms. While Bing saw only small gains, Google’s integration of generative AI into its core search experience appears to be helping it sustain user engagement. Read more from MediaPost.
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/27/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-27-25/) - PayPal signs deal with OpenAI to become the first payments wallet in ChatGPT PayPal has integrated with OpenAI’s ChatGPT, enabling users to complete purchases directly in the app using PayPal or Venmo. The move positions ChatGPT as an emerging channel for conversational commerce and could signal a shift in how digital payments are initiated. Read
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/3/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-3-25/) - Google’s AI Overviews guide research, but search still wins the sale: study A new study shows that Google’s AI Overviews are increasing total searches and ad clicks, contradicting fears that generative results reduce engagement. Users interacting with AI Overviews spend more time in sessions and perform more follow-up queries, suggesting AI may drive more sales
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/24/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-24-25/) - FAST viewing has surged 43% in the U.S. since last year Free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) services like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Roku Channel have surged in popularity, with U.S. viewership up 56% year over year. The growth reflects shifting consumer behavior toward free, easily accessible content and presents new advertising opportunities for brands seeking
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/10/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-10-25/) - Local news goes over the top: OTT app viewing is growing in US markets Local news is increasingly being consumed via OTT apps, according to Nielsen. In August 2025, station groups averaged 61,000 OTT viewers—up 69% year over year—with audiences trending younger and more diverse. The shift signals changing habits in how viewers access local
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/17/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-17-25/) - Despite October NFL gains, broadcast share continues to erode Nielsen’s October data shows that while NFL broadcasts helped boost viewership, broadcast TV’s overall share still declined year-over-year to 22.9%. Streaming grew to 45.7%, with platforms like YouTube and FAST channels seeing notable gains, highlighting the ongoing shift in audience preferences. Read more from MediaPost. As
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/1/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-1-25/) - Google AI Mode sends traffic on 69% of transactional queries: New data New research shows Google’s AI mode in Chrome drives engagement on 69% of transactional queries. Rather than replacing search, the mode encourages high-intent actions like bookings and purchases, suggesting AI is enhancing user outcomes within search workflows. Read more from Search Engine Land.
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/8/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-8-25/) - Meta prioritizes Gen Z in Facebook redesign Meta is redesigning Facebook to appeal more to Gen Z users by elevating Reels and Marketplace, adding Instagram-style layouts, and expanding personalization. The update also emphasizes creator tools and friend discovery to encourage engagement from younger audiences. Read more from MediaDailyNews. YouTube adds more AI creation tools and
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/6/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-6-25/) - Trade Desk Founder To Create A Fair Ad Auction The Trade Desk has launched “OpenAds,” an open-source auction platform designed to bring more transparency to digital advertising. The platform supports direct connections between publishers and advertisers, with a simplified version on the way for smaller publishers. Read more from MediaPost. Retail media’s next act: Instacart
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/22/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-22-25/) - YouTube, Disney, and Netflix remain on top of August rankings According to Nielsen’s August data, YouTube (13.1%), Disney (9.7%), and Netflix (8.7%) led U.S. TV viewership. Disney and Fox gained share thanks to football coverage, while YouTube and Netflix held strong despite seasonal back-to-school dips. Read more from TVTechnology. Gen Z holiday spending forecasted lower
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/15/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-15-25/) - Nielsen: Football, back-to-school trends boost traditional TV viewing in August Nielsen data shows that traditional TV viewership received a boost in August, driven by live football, back-to-school content, and syndicated programming. These factors temporarily slowed the decline in linear viewing, especially among key demographic groups. Read more from TVTechnology. CTV set to fuel record U.S.
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/8/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-8-25/) - FCC chairman: Agency will review broadcast ownership rules at meeting The FCC plans to revisit its broadcast ownership rules during its September meeting, spurred by Commissioner Brendan Carr’s call for modernization. Carr contends current restrictions are outdated in today’s digital-heavy media environment. Read more from TheDesk. Q2 ad spend rises on digital expansion, TV spend
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/29/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-29-25/) - ChatGPT now allows consumers to buy products on the platform OpenAI has launched Instant Checkout, enabling U.S. ChatGPT users to purchase products from Etsy and soon Shopify without leaving the platform. Powered by Stripe and the Agentic Commerce Protocol, this innovation could disrupt traditional e-commerce giants by merging discovery and checkout into a single conversation.
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/1/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-1-25/) - YouTube, Netflix ride the wave of summer streaming highs Nielsen's latest report shows YouTube and Netflix hit new viewership peaks in July, fueling a broader summer surge in streaming. The findings reflect strong engagement and continued audience shift toward digital platforms. Read more from Nielsen. The biggest takeaways from the Google search remedies ruling Google
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/25/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-25-25/) - Streaming ad revenue could grow by 40% over the next 4 years in the U.S. Ad-supported streaming in the U.S. is projected to hit $17.4 billion in 2024, driven by the rise of hybrid models that blend subscriptions with advertising. The trend reflects strong momentum in digital video monetization. Read more from The Current. Shoppers
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/18/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-18-25/) - Google quietly announces search partner network visibility Google has quietly updated its documentation to suggest advertisers may soon gain more transparency into placements across its Search Partner Network. This move could help improve campaign control and performance insight. Read more from Search Engine Journal. 2025 upfront deals reveal just how powerful streaming has become Streaming
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/11/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-11-25/) - Traditional search still dominates, but AI is making gains in the U.S. and Europe A new survey finds 90% of U.S. consumers still prefer traditional search engines, but AI-driven alternatives are gaining interest—especially among younger users. Marketers may need to evolve strategies as these behaviors shift. Read more from Martech. Google expands its use of
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/4/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-4-25/) - Disney is supersizing ESPN for streaming with NFL, WWE Disney is acquiring major NFL Media assets, including NFL Network and NFL.com, to boost ESPN's digital reach and strengthen its streaming and live sports portfolio. The move positions ESPN as a more powerful all-in-one sports destination. Read more from The Current. Skydance closes $8 billion Paramount
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/28/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-28-25/) - YouTube dominates as the top recipient of AI chatbot referral traffic New data from eMarketer shows that YouTube has become the top site linked by AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot, surpassing Wikipedia. The trend reflects a growing preference for video content in AI-generated search results. Read more from eMarketer. New bill would codify
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/21/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-21-25/) - Mediaocean: Connected TV sees strong interest among ad buyers Advertisers are expected to increase spending in connected TV and streaming in the second half of 2025, according to Mediaocean’s latest forecast. Brands are prioritizing measurable outcomes and shifting toward performance-driven channels with greater audience precision. Read more from TheDesk. Google users are less likely to
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/14/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-14-25/) - 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
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/7/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-7-25/) - TikTok eyes U.S.-only app TikTok is reportedly considering a U.S.-only version of its app in response to ongoing regulatory scrutiny, with Oracle emerging as a potential buyer of U.S. operations. The move could reshape how marketers plan and execute campaigns on the platform, especially if content, data policies, or user targeting features diverge between U.S.
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/30/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-30-25/) - FAST is booming as brand content and sports drive the surge Brands are increasingly turning to streaming platforms to deliver niche and engaging content, often pairing branded entertainment with sports programming and FAST channels. This approach reflects a broader shift toward more immersive and contextually relevant advertising that resonates with specific audiences. Read more from
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/23/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-23-25/) - Advertisers can buy product placement ads through The Trade Desk The Trade Desk has unveiled Rembrand, a generative AI tool that creates video ads tailored for streaming platforms. Designed to help brands scale creative production efficiently, Rembrand integrates with The Trade Desk's platform to automate elements of CTV campaign development. Read more from AdWeek. OTT
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/9/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-9-25/) - EDO’s TV data can now be accessed easily through The Trade Desk EDO and The Trade Desk are teaming up to improve CTV measurement and programmatic media buying. The integration links ad exposures with real-time consumer behavior, giving advertisers more insight into campaign effectiveness. It reflects a broader push to tie outcomes to media spend
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/2/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-2-25/) - TikTok announces AI ad tools for precise targeting TikTok is rolling out new AI-powered advertising tools designed to enhance targeting precision and campaign performance. The features include predictive audiences, automated creative suggestions, and real-time performance optimization. TikTok aims to attract ad dollars by offering more efficient and scalable tools to marketers. Read more from MediaDailyNews.
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/16/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-16-25/) - The Trade Desk introduces a native app on Snowflake for retail conversion data The Trade Desk has launched a native app on Snowflake, giving advertisers easier access to retail conversion data without moving it off-platform. This integration allows marketers to analyze campaign performance more efficiently while maintaining data privacy and control. It’s another move toward
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/26/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-26-25/) - Over 72% of TV viewing was ad-supported in Q1 this year Ad-supported platforms accounted for 41% of total U.S. TV viewing time in Q1 2025, with YouTube and Hulu leading the charge. Free, ad-supported platforms like the Roku Channel and Tubi also saw continued growth. Viewers are embracing this free content, which offers growing reach
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/21/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-21-25/) - 3 takeaways from the Google ad tech monopoly ruling In a recent antitrust ruling, a U.S. federal judge determined that Google unlawfully monopolized key segments of the digital advertising market by tying its publisher ad server and ad exchange together, limiting competition and harming publishers. This decision is seen as a potential turning point, offering
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/28/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-28-25/) - IAB: Digital video to capture 58% share of TV/video ad spend in 2025 According to the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), digital video advertising is projected to capture 58% of total U.S. TV/video ad spend in 2025, reaching $72 billion. This marks a significant increase from 2020, when digital video accounted for 29% of the market.
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/5/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-5-25/) - YouTube's audience outnumbers even its greatest rivals YouTube boasts 2.5 billion monthly active users globally, surpassing all other digital platforms, according to eMarketer's 2024 forecasts. This achievement is particularly notable given YouTube's absence in China, one of the world's largest digital markets. Despite its vast user base, YouTube doesn't lead in global digital ad revenue
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/12/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-12-25/) - The Trade Desk announces OpenSincera The Trade Desk has unveiled OpenSincera, a new application designed to enhance transparency in digital advertising by providing comprehensive insights into ad quality and supply chain health. This tool is freely accessible to all participants in the advertising industry and includes an API to facilitate integration into various ad-tech platforms.
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/19/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-19-25/) - In uncertain waters, smart marketers are holding the line Brands are approaching economic uncertainty by leaning into sustained marketing investment rather than pulling back. Marketers are emphasizing long-term brand strength and consumer trust, even amid tariff concerns and shifting budgets. Many are turning to creative pricing strategies and strategic messaging to maintain relevance. This approach
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/14/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-14-25/) - Google is found guilty of operating an ad-tech monopoly A U.S. federal judge ruled that Google illegally monopolized key segments of the digital advertising market. The court found that Google used anticompetitive practices to dominate the publisher ad server and ad exchange markets, violating the Sherman Antitrust Act. This decision marks a significant legal setback
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/7/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-7-25/) - Google remains go-to search engine over AI tools A recent survey revealed that 57.8% of U.S. consumers prefer using Google Search over AI platforms like ChatGPT for factual information. Additionally, 25% of non-AI users cited a lack of trust in AI search accuracy as a reason for not adopting these tools. Despite the rise of
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/31/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-31-25/) - Streamers to surpass broadcasters in global content spending in 2025 Global content spending is projected to reach $248 billion in 2025, with streaming services’ investments surpassing commercial broadcasters for the first time. Streamers are expected to allocate $95 billion to content, strategically focusing on digital platforms. This is a first in the new era of
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/24/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-24-25/) - E.U. says Google Search violated competition rules in preliminary findings The European Commission’s preliminary findings indicate that Alphabet, Google’s parent company, likely violated the Digital Markets Act by favoring its own services, such as shopping and travel, in search results over competitors. This self-preferencing is seen as limiting consumer choice and affecting competition. Google contests
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/17/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-17-25/) - Meet the Netflix ads suite, set to launch April 1 Netflix is set to launch its proprietary advertising platform, the “Netflix Ad Suite,” on April 1, as announced by Advertising VP Nicolle Pangis. This initiative aims to enhance advertisers’ experience by providing more control and transparency in their campaigns. The suite will integrate with major
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/10/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-10-25/) - Increased consumer purchases expected to be influenced by AI: study A recent study shows that AI is expected to play a growing role in influencing consumer purchase decisions, with advancements in personalization and predictive analytics driving more tailored shopping experiences. Marketers are increasingly leveraging AI-driven recommendations to optimize ad targeting and product suggestions. Read more
- [Celebrating working women on International Women's Day](https://umiusa.com/celebrating-working-women-on-international-womens-day/) - President & CEO, Anne Carnathan recently spoke to CBS 21 for International Women’s Day about how the pandemic has changed priorities, especially for working moms. Anne Carnathan serves as President & CEO of Universal Media-Analytics and has been with UMI for over 10 years. Prior to joining the company, she spent 25 years in the broadcasting industry and has
- [Kyle Cook presents on panel during “From Print to Digital: The Next Generation of the Circular” webinar](https://umiusa.com/umi-svp-presents-at-from-print-to-digital-the-next-generation-of-the-circular-webinar/) - Kyle Cook, Senior Vice President of Digital and Emerging Media at Universal Media-Analytics recently presented as a panel member during “From Print to Digital: The Next Generation of the Circular” webinar. The online event took place on Wednesday, April 7. The webinar covered important topics such as the evolution of the circular and how the
- [UMI supports Children’s Hospitals Week](https://umiusa.com/umi-supports-childrens-hospitals-week/) - Children’s Hospitals Week kicked off on Monday, April 19 through 25 to help raise funds for Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. Universal Media-Analytics partnered with Children’s Miracle Network Hershey as a sponsor to help raise vital funds during the event. Over the course of the week, donations were raised for the Children’s Miracle Network Patient
- [Re-thinking your print program in a changing landscape](https://umiusa.com/re-thinking-your-print-program-in-a-changing-landscape/) - With the changing landscape of print media and the accelerated adoption of digital solutions, how do you know if it’s time to scale back or even abandon your print advertising programs altogether? The answer lies in the data. Whether your key performance indicators for success are conversions, sales to conversion costs, hot zip codes or
- [Children’s Miracle Network Telethon raises record-breaking $388,550](https://umiusa.com/childrens-miracle-network-telethon-raises-record-breaking-388550/) - A record-breaking $388,550 was raised for the 37th annual Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Telethon for Penn State Health Children’s Hospital. Over the course of the week, June 7-10, funds were raised for lifesaving equipment, patient programs, and pediatric research for the hospital, which treats more than 100,000 children every year. As a part of Universal
- [Impression-based media planning: The shift from points to impressions](https://umiusa.com/impression-based-media-planning-the-shift-from-points-to-impressions/) - The timing is right, and really, overdue, for impression-based media planning on a local level. The foundations and data necessary to make the shift from ratings-based planning to impression-based are phasing in across the various Nielsen market types on a local DMA (designated market area) level. What is Impression-based Planning? Quite simply, impression-based planning is
- [A beginner's guide to creating engaging ads on Facebook](https://umiusa.com/a-beginners-guide-to-creating-engaging-ads-on-facebook/) - Imagine having a tool to help you reach roughly 2.85 billion people based on their interests, likes and behaviors. Look no further than the biggest social network worldwide, Facebook. Facebook’s Ads Manager allows you to reach even more people, 3.45 billion according to statista.com, through the company’s core products, which not only include Facebook but
- [Keep your print marketing in check among rising postage rates](https://umiusa.com/rising-postage-rates/) - A postage rate increase by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) marks the second increase for 2021, the first increase going into effect on January 24, 2021. Postage rate increases for mailing services, such as letters and postcards, will be implemented on August 29, 2021, based on approval given by the Postal Regulatory Commission. The hike in
- [TikTok enables DMA geo-targeting for businesses](https://umiusa.com/tiktok-enables-dma-geo-targeting-for-businesses/) - As you’ve heard many times before, location is everything. Buying a home? Opening a business? Providing consumers relevant ads? Location, location, location. Location is an important aspect of everyday life. That is why being able to advertise based on location is key for any successful digital campaign. In the digital marketing world, geo-targeting is the
- [Basics of Digital Marketing Video Series: Part I](https://umiusa.com/basics-of-digital-marketing-part-1/) - The proper tools are essential to set up and monitor any digital media campaign. In part one of the “Basics of Digital Marketing” series, we explore how to get started as you begin building a digital campaign for your brand using Google’s various products. Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.Google My Business, a free
- [Basics of Digital Marketing Video Series: Part II](https://umiusa.com/basics-of-digital-marketing-video-series-part-ii/) - Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.Part two of the “Basics of Digital Marketing” video series continues as we explore key performance indicators (KPIs) and the important role they play in marketing campaigns. A KPI can be defined as a metric that measures the performance and effectiveness of any business process or task. Its goal
- [Basics of Digital Marketing Video Series: Part III](https://umiusa.com/basics-of-digital-marketing-video-series-part-iii/) - Sorry, your browser doesn't support embedded videos.This marks the third and final installment of the “Basics of Digital Marketing Series,” with Danny Dierdorff, Director of Digital Activation. In the final video, we explore the Marketing Funnel, which is used to help guide customers towards making decisions to purchase a product/service. The funnel is a representation
- [Kyle Cook appears on three local news networks for Data Privacy Week, January 24-28](https://umiusa.com/midstate-expert-weighs-in-the-best-way-to-protect-yourself-is-with-good-passwords/) - APPEARANCE ON ABC27 NEWS On January 20, Kyle Cook sat down with abc27’s Kendra Nichols for a discussion about how to protect your online data. With data breaches on the rise, some companies and lawmakers are making changes. To read the full article and watch his interview, check out Midstate expert weighs in: “the best
- [abc27 News spotlights GMA's Ginger Zee appearance on Grit & Gravitas podcast](https://umiusa.com/abc27-news-spotlights-good-morning-americas-ginger-zee-appearance-on-grit-gravitas-podcast/) - Grit & Gravitas recently welcomed special guest and ABC News Chief Meteorologist Ginger Zee of Good Morning America virtually into their Camp Hill studio. The podcast hosts, Universal Media President & CEO, Anne Carnathan along with co-host Anne Deeter Gallaher, Owner/CEO of Deeter Gallaher Group, spoke in more detail about the experience in an interview
- [Universal Media Sponsors Celebration of Potential Honoring Micah Parsons](https://umiusa.com/universal-media-serves-as-sponsor-for-the-salvation-army-event-honoring-micah-parsons/) - Universal Media, Inc. served as the Presenting Sponsor for The Salvation Army’s Celebration of Potential ceremony honoring Micah Parsons on Thursday, April 28 at the Hershey Lodge. NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Dallas Cowboys Linebacker, PSU Football alum, and, most importantly, Harrisburg native, Parsons, accepted the Celebration of Potential Award in front of friends,
- [Quarterly Report: Social Media Marketing for the Grocery Industry](https://umiusa.com/quarterly-report-social-media-marketing-for-the-grocery-industry/)
- [Comparing Paid Social Media Advertising: Dark Ads Versus Boosted Ads](https://umiusa.com/dark-ads-versus-boosted-ads-a-comparison-of-the-two-ad-types/) - You have likely scrolled past a flash sale for your favorite brand on social media to later realize you cannot find the advertisement on the brand page, which is weird because you see other advertisements. Where did the ad go, or did the brand delete the post? The answer, no. Rather, you have discovered a
- [Universal Media Promotes Executives and Key Team Member](https://umiusa.com/promotes-executives-and-key-team-member/) - News Release Mechanicsburg, PA (February 6, 2023) – Anne E. Carnathan, President and CEO of Universal Media Inc. (UMI), a media strategy firm headquartered in Mechanicsburg, PA, is pleased to announce the promotions of Kyle Cook, Executive Vice President, Media Strategy; Mark Jones, Senior Vice President, Integrated Process and Development; and Colin Cross, Director of
- [Universal Media's Legacy of Service](https://umiusa.com/childrens-miracle-network/) - When Ann Shields first joined the board at the Children’s Miracle Network, it was because she believed in their mission and the values they stood for. Now, over 20 years later, those original core values are integrated in the relationship between Universal Media and CMN, and have helped impact the lives of countless children and
- [For Anne Carnathan the Grit & Gravitas Podcast Is Both a Gift and a Lesson](https://umiusa.com/grit-gravitas-podcast/) - The Grit & Gravitas podcast, hosted by Universal Media, Inc. CEO Anne Carnathan and Deeter Gallaher Group founder Anne Deeter Gallaher, has remained true to its original vision in many ways. Carnathan and Deeter Gallaher started the effort in 2021 in an effort to aid women in business and help teach the lessons they were
- [A New Frontier: How Universal Sports & Entertainment is Breaking New Ground](https://umiusa.com/how-universal-sports-entertainment-is-breaking-new-ground/) - What makes Universal Sports & Entertainment different from Universal Media at large? For Nick Mickley, Vice President of the new division, the answer is simple. “Sports and entertainment is such a unique space,” Mickley said. “The biggest difference is how the sports or entertainment brand connects our partners with their consumers. Additionally, our USE partners
- [Making Magic: How Anne Deeter Gallaher Brings the Grit & Gravitas Podcast to Life](https://umiusa.com/making-magic-how-anne-deeter-gallaher-brings-the-grit-gravitas-podcast-to-life/) - Making magic is one thing, but knowing the steps that go into pulling off the trick is another challenge entirely. The latter is the job of Anne Deeter Gallaher, founder of Deeter Gallaher Group and one half of the Grit & Gravitas podcast alongside Universal Media President and CEO Anne Carnathan. After two whirlwind seasons,
- [Leaving a Legacy - The Life and Career of Don Young](https://umiusa.com/leaving-a-legacy-the-life-and-career-of-don-young/) - It is 1987, and Don Young is rolling down the open road on the way to Raleigh, North Carolina with a chicken salad sandwich in his bag and a dream in his heart. He has a meeting with Rose’s stores, one of the few small clients that he serves as a member of Universal Media,
- [Universal Media Inc. Celebrates Growth of Universal Sports & Entertainment Division to Expand Experiential Marketing and Deepen Community Relationships](https://umiusa.com/universal-media-inc-celebrates-growth-of-universal-sports-entertainment-division-to-expand-experiential-marketing-and-deepen-community-relationships/) - Universal Sports & Entertainment, a division of Universal Media Inc., was launched in 2022 to open fresh opportunities for corporations, brands, and businesses.
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/15/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-15-24/) - Broadcast, Cable Continue Downward Trend In December It’s a rerun of sorts for broadcast and cable TV usage in December 2023 versus the year before — with viewing losses down 6% and 10%, respectively, according to Nielsen. For broadcast TV, December was down 4.3% from November 2023 in usage. Year-over-year, broadcast TV’s viewing share for
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/22/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-22-24/) - Cookies Will Finally Die in 2024 When Google first announced plans to disable third-party cookies on Chrome in January 2020, the news hit ad tech like an earthquake. But a lot has changed in the past four years. Now, as Google finally begins acting on those plans, the death of the third-party cookie is looking
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/29/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-29-24/) - Meta expands automated audience targeting options in latest AI push Meta’s Advantage detailed targeting is now available on all campaign objectives and optimizations. The decision to expand access to this automated audience targeting feature comes just weeks after the tech giant announced plans to sunset detailed manual ad targeting categories for sensitive topics. Advantage
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/5/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-5-24/) - TikTok Updates: UMG, Incentivized Video, Shoppable Posts, and More TikTok’s evolving landscape encompasses a myriad of changes, from Universal Music Group’s departure prompting copyright debates to the introduction of AI Song, which challenges the traditional creative process. Meanwhile, TikTok’s exploration of longer horizontal videos presents opportunities for deeper storytelling but risks alienating its core audience.
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/12/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-12-24/) - The Trade Desk’s SP500+: Revolutionizing Audience Targeting Across Premium Publishers The Trade Desk introduces SP500+, a breakthrough solution for audience targeting on 500+ premium publishers, including NYT, Disney+, and Spotify. Historically, demand-side platforms (DSPs) such as The Trade Desk have concentrated on assisting buyers in finding the ideal audience. However, with the impending deprecation of
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/19/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-19-24/) - Walmart buying TV-brand Vizio for its ad-fueling customer data California-based Vizio is best known for lower-priced TVs, but its real value to Walmart is its advertising business and access to user data.Walmart said it’s buying Vizio for approximately $2.3 billion, pending regulatory clearance and additional closing conditions. Vizio makes money by selling ads, including those
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/26/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-26-24/) - The latest data shows organizations are happy with retail media, but there’s room for improvement For 77% of US organizations, retail media has either met or exceeded KPI expectations, according to a December 2023 survey from Skai and the Path to Purchase Institute. Only 3% say it had little or no impact on desired objectives.
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/4/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-4-24/) - Ad Price Inflation Continues To Decelerate, TV Remains Deflationary Even as U.S. consumer price inflation has begun moderating, advertisers, planners and buyers are seeing their costs move in the opposite direction — especially for TV and “print” media — according to first quarter media price inflation estimates from ECI Media Management. While TV ad costs
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/11/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-11-24/) - What we’re seeing a week into the Google March 2024 core and spam updates The Google March 2024 core and spam updates have caused significant activity in search rankings, with both algorithmic shifts and manual actions enforcing updated spam policies. Google anticipates the core update to take a month and the spam update about two
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/18/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-18-24/) - Analyst Calls 2024 The Year Linear TV Advertising Officially Broke Michael Nathanson, senior research analyst at MoffettNathanson, has declared 2024 will likely be the year linear TV advertising officially breaks. “It is now clear that outside of sports advertising, there should no longer be expectations of a recovery for linear TV advertising,“ Nathanson said. “Of
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/25/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-25-24/) - Google Completes March Spam Update, Core Update Continues Google has completed its spam update rollout, which targeted AI-generated content, expired domain misuse, and authority abuse. The core update, incorporating the “Helpful Content” evaluation into the core algorithm, is still ongoing and will take a few more weeks to complete. Website owners and content creators should
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/1/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-1-24/) - Audio and retail are getting in tune with one another In September, eMarketer projected that digital audio would account for a fifth of time spent with digital media in the U.S. this year. For advertisers, that should be music to their ears. But while connected TV (CTV), for instance, has become a fast-growing digital channel
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/8/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-8-24/) - 32% of US streaming cancellations are ‘won back’ after 6 months Retaining subscribers has always been an obvious goal of streaming services. But recent data suggests that streamers likely have a big opportunity to “win back” people who cancel their memberships. About 1 in 3 U.S. subscribers to premium subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platforms who canceled
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/15/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-15-24/) - Lawmakers Express Support For Bill That Could Outlaw Behavioral Targeting Bipartisan leaders of the House Energy and Commerce Committee on Wednesday expressed support for privacy legislation that would restrict companies’ ability to harness consumers’ data, including information about their web-browsing activity. “Many companies are using their control over our data to erode people’s agency, their
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/22/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-22-24/) - Amazon launches grocery subscriptions for prime and EBT customers Amazon has introduced grocery delivery subscriptions for Prime members and EBT users. The new service, announced Tuesday (April 23), is launching in more than 3,500 locations around the U.S. It gives Prime members willing to spend $9.99 per month unlimited grocery deliveries on orders of $35
- [Top Takes: Week of 4/29/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-4-29-24/) - Retail media ad revenue hit $43.7 billion in 2023, surging 16.3% Despite concerns about privacy laws, attribution loss and economic instability, advertisers keep investing heavily in online ads — with retail media standing out as a fast-growing medium. Advertisers spent a record $225 billion on digital advertising in the U.S. last year, a 7.3% increase year over
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/6/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-6-24/) - Appointment TV isn’t dead. It’s making a comeback on streaming platforms. When Netflix popularized the binge model a decade ago, it brought with it a new way to consume television. Tuning in at a specific time for a live event or a single episode of your favorite TV show was no longer the only option.
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/13/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-13-24/) - OpenAI launches new AI model GPT-4o and desktop version of ChatGPT OpenAI on Monday launched a new AI model and desktop version of ChatGPT, along with an updated user interface, the company’s latest effort to expand use of its popular chatbot. The update brings GPT-4 to everyone, including OpenAI’s free users, technology chief Mira Murati
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/20/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-20-24/) - Netflix is launching its own ad tech Netflix announced that its ad-supported plan now has 40 million monthly active users globally, up from 23 million in January. Considering that level of growth, Netflix also shared plans to launch its own ad tech platform, plus new partnerships with more programmatic platforms and measurement vendors. The company
- [Top Takes: Week of 5/27/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-5-27-24/) - 79% of U.S. households now own a smart TV There’s likely no greater indicator of streaming’s dominance than the rise of the smart TV. New data on the device’s presence in U.S. households puts a finer point on the matter. According to Hub Entertainment Research, 79% of U.S. homes now own a smart TV. That’s
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/3/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-3-24/) - Is social media the new Google? Gen Z turn to Google 25% less than Gen X when searching Generational gaps in technology use are widening, with Generation Z showing a decrease of 25% in Google usage compared to Generation X. This data points to a significant evolution in search habits, as younger users pivot to
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/10/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-10-24/) - The Roku Channel tops Comscore’s list of most popular FAST services A new report from measurement firm Comscore has shed light on the popularity of Roku, both as a streaming service and an operating system. According to the June findings, Roku is the most popular CTV operating system by time spent, representing 49% of the
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/17/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-17-24/) - Streaming share reaches all-time high with 38.8% of TV Streaming’s share of TV usage in the U.S. reached a record high in May in a new Nielsen report; FAST platforms Tubi and Roku Channel hit their highest marks. Typical for this time of year, overall TV usage was down just slightly on a monthly basis
- [Top Takes: Week of 6/24/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-6-24-24/) - Retail data is going global Global interest in retail data is increasing, with markets like Asia and brands worldwide recognizing its value. Predictive modeling and audience segmentation allow for tailored campaigns, significantly boosting ROI. Real-time measurement and optimization enhance campaign effectiveness. These data-driven approaches are enhancing the capabilities of companies to make informed decisions and
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/1/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-1-24/) - Travelers Just Want To Spend Getting ready to travel and being on the road puts people in a shopping mood – and not just for buying travel-related products. According to research released by TripAdvisor last month, 84% of travelers are actively in the market for electronics, streaming services, food, booze and financial services. For example,
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/8/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-8-24/) - Google will remain the top destination for ad spend in the generative AI era “Traditional search continues to be dominated by Google. This year, Google’s search ad revenues will reach $62.87 billion, per an Insider Intelligence forecast. By 2026, its search ad business will be more than 10 times the size of Microsoft’s. Some 71%
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/15/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-15-24/) - Time spent streaming surges to over 40% in June, the highest Share of TV Usage in the history of Nielsen’s The Gauge The month of June ushered in another blazing summer of streaming. According to Nielsen’s June 2024 report of The Gauge™, time spent streaming soared to 40.3% of total TV usage, topping the previous
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/22/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-22-24/) - Google Delays Chrome’s Third-Party Cookie Phaseout to 2025 Google has delayed the phaseout of third-party cookies in Chrome to 2025 due to challenges in addressing feedback from the industry, regulators, and developers. This delay gives advertisers more time to adapt to Google’s Privacy Sandbox, designed to provide privacy-centric alternatives for ad targeting and measurement. Despite
- [Top Takes: Week of 7/29/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-7-29-24/) - Paris Olympics viewership soars 79% to 34.5 million viewers The 2024 Paris Olympics attracted 34.5 million viewers over the first three days, a 79% increase from the Tokyo Olympics. NBCUniversal’s platforms, including NBC, Peacock, and others, reported high engagement, with advertisers experiencing significant boosts in attention and message recall. The unique River Seine Opening Ceremony
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/5/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-5-24/) - Roku, Trade Desk ink ID Graph deal for streaming ads Roku and The Trade Desk have partnered to integrate Unified ID 2.0 (UID2) across Roku’s premium streaming inventory. This privacy-centric identifier, derived from user emails or phone numbers, aims to enhance ad targeting precision. Roku’s 83.6 million streaming households provide substantial reach, and the deal
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/12/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-12-24/) - U.S. adults spend most social media time on Facebook, but Gen Z prefers TikTok A recent report shows that U.S. adults still spend the most time on Facebook, but Gen Z is favoring TikTok for their social media engagement. While Facebook remains dominant among older age groups, TikTok’s short-form video content has made it the
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/19/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-19-24/) - July exhibits rare upswing in TV viewing, amplified by streaming Nielsen’s latest “The Gauge” report reveals a rare upswing in TV viewing for July 2024, fueled by increased streaming and the start of the Paris Summer Olympics. This rise in viewership marks a significant shift as both traditional TV and streaming platforms saw gains, with
- [Top Takes: Week of 8/26/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-8-26-24/) - Global ad spend to top $1 trillion in 2025 Global ad spend is expected to surpass $1 trillion in 2024, driven by digital advertising growth. Key sectors contributing to this surge include e-commerce, technology, and entertainment. This marks a significant milestone in the advertising industry, highlighting the increasing importance of digital platforms in marketing strategies.
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/2/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-2-24/) - Social media users will surpass linear TV viewers next year Social media users are expected to surpass linear TV viewers in 2024, according to new data. This shift reflects the growing dominance of digital platforms as people increasingly turn to social media for entertainment, news, and content consumption. The trend highlights the need for
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/9/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-9-24/) - What is the Google antitrust trial all about? Google’s antitrust trial could reshape the digital advertising landscape, with major implications for ad tech and market competition. The case examines whether Google has monopolized digital ad services, limiting competition and inflating prices for advertisers. As the trial unfolds, the industry is closely watching potential impacts on
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/16/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-16-24/) - Survey: Most advertisers measure retail media success through performance metrics Advertisers are increasingly measuring the success of retail media through performance metrics like return on ad spend (ROAS), sales lift, and shopper engagement. This shift highlights the demand for clearer insights into how retail media investments drive direct outcomes, particularly as brands seek to
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/23/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-23-24/) - Why retail media’s growth could change retail as you know it The future of retail advertising is shifting towards more data-driven approaches, with retailers leveraging first-party data to target consumers more precisely. This strategy is becoming crucial as privacy regulations tighten and third-party cookies phase out. Retailers are now focusing on building direct relationships with
- [Top Takes: Week of 9/30/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-9-30-24/) - Marketers expect AI to improve retail media recommendations Marketers are increasingly optimistic about the role of AI in improving retail media recommendations, anticipating more personalized and accurate product suggestions for consumers. AI is expected to enhance targeting precision, boost ad performance, and drive stronger customer engagement by leveraging advanced data analysis. As AI continues to
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/7/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-7-24/) - Meta announces new video & AI features at Advertising Week Meta announced new AI-driven video features at Advertising Week 2024, aimed at enhancing the way advertisers create and optimize video content. These tools leverage AI to automatically generate creative variations and improve targeting, offering brands a more efficient way to engage audiences. Meta’s push for
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/14/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-14-24/) - Google unveils AI-powered Google Shopping overhaul Google has unveiled an AI-powered overhaul of Google Shopping, aimed at enhancing personalization and search capabilities. The new features leverage AI to offer more tailored product recommendations, streamlined search filters, and easier discovery of deals. This upgrade is designed to improve the overall shopping experience by making it more
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/21/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-21-24/) - Instagram launches new profile cards Instagram has introduced new Profile Cards, allowing users to easily share their profiles across the app and in other digital spaces. These customizable cards make it simpler for users to promote their Instagram accounts, enhancing discoverability and engagement. The feature is designed to streamline the process of connecting with others
- [Top Takes: Week of 10/28/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-10-28-24/) - Meta takes step to replace Google index in AI search Meta has introduced its own AI-based search technology to reduce reliance on Google, integrating features designed to enhance user experience on its platforms. This shift allows Meta to control more of its search functionality and personalize search results using its data. The move reflects Meta’s
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/4/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-4-24/) - Nielsen gets shot in the arm from MRC’s livestream accreditation The Media Rating Council (MRC) has accredited Nielsen’s integration of first-party live-streaming data into its National Television service, making it the first live-streaming measurement solution with person-level granularity to receive this accreditation. The MRC’s accreditation reflects the growing emphasis on accurate cross-platform measurement in the
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/11/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-11-24/) - Connected omnichannel campaigns are 2.2 times less fatiguing to audiences, new research shows Recent research by The Trade Desk Intelligence reveals that connected omnichannel advertising campaigns are significantly more effective than traditional multichannel approaches. The study found that these integrated campaigns are less cognitively fatiguing for audiencesand more likely to connect with them. These findings
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/18/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-18-24/) - Worldwide B2B digital ad spend is set to nearly triple its pre-pandemic level by 2026 Worldwide B2B digital ad spending is projected to reach $70.65 billion in 2026, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This growth reflects a sustained shift toward digital channels, as businesses continue to invest in online advertising to engage target audiences effectively. As digital
- [Top Takes: Week of 11/25/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-11-25-24/) - The Trade Desk is building a CTV operating system called Ventura The Trade Desk has introduced Ventura, a new smart TV operating system designed to enhance the connected TV (CTV) advertising landscape. Ventura aims to provide advertisers with more precise targeting capabilities and improved measurement tools, addressing current challenges in CTV advertising. By offering a
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/2/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-2-24/) - The power of programmatic now showing at a movie theater near you In-cinema advertising is evolving with the integration of programmatic buying, enabling marketers to target moviegoers more precisely. Two leading U.S. cinema advertising firms have adopted this technology across their theater networks. This advancement allows advertisers to leverage data-driven strategies, enhancing the effectiveness of
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/9/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-9-24/) - Research: Consumers like locally-targeted ad messaging A recent study reveals that 68% of US internet users feel local messaging from national brands makes ads more relevant, and reflects investment in their communities. However, only 26% of marketers prioritize strengthening local advertising. Leveraging localized messaging—like featuring local sports teams or weather-specific content—can boost relevance, especially in
- [Top Takes: Week of 12/16/24](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-12-16-24/) - The future of cross-media measurement takes shape with AI and industrywide efforts Advancements in artificial intelligence are revitalizing traditional marketing mix modeling (MMM), enabling more precise cross-media measurement. AI enhances MMM's ability to process complex data sources quickly, providing marketers with granular insights across diverse channels. This evolution supports more informed decision-making in media planning
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/6/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-6-25/) - The year in data: What 2024's key stats mean for marketers in 2025 The Current takes a look at how five trends in 2024 will impact marketers in 2025, including statistics on digital audio and generative AI. The article includes a look back at the streaming records set by the Paris Olympics and the impact
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/13/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-13-25/) - TikTok's fight against going dark gains key support TikTok may delay its U.S. shutdown as discussions continue over its future operations in the market. The potential postponement could provide additional time for advertisers to evaluate the platform's availability and plan campaigns accordingly. This development highlights ongoing uncertainties around TikTok's status in the U.S. and its
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/20/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-20-25/) - Google Search ad spend climbs 10% YoY, despite AI disruptions Google search ad spend continues to climb, driven by strong performance in the retail and services sectors. Click-through rates have remained steady, while cost-per-click has shown moderate growth. The trend indicates sustained advertiser demand on Google's platform, even as broader economic challenges persist. Read more
- [Top Takes: Week of 1/27/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-1-27-25/) - Search ad spending surged in Q4 2024, with retail media leading: report In Q4 2024, digital ad spending experienced significant growth across retail media, paid search, and paid social channels, according to an industry report. Retail media led with a 23% year-over-year increase, driven by a rise in impressions and clicks. These trends underscore the
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/3/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-3-25/) - ChatGPT growing as a traffic referrer, reshaping search behavior: report ChatGPT is increasingly driving traffic to websites, having referred users to over 30,000 unique domains by November 2024. Notably, 70% of ChatGPT prompts are unique and rarely seen in traditional search engines, indicating a shift in how users seek information. Marketers may need to adjust
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/10/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-10-25/) - YouTube surprise: CEO says TV overtakes mobile as "primary device" for viewing YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced that viewers now watch over 1 billion hours of YouTube content daily on TVs, surpassing mobile device viewership. This shift underscores the platform's growing presence in the living room, with YouTube maintaining its position as the most-watched streaming
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/17/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-17-25/) - Google lifts ban on fingerprinting for advertisers Google's recent policy update permits advertisers to utilize digital fingerprinting techniques, enabling more precise audience targeting across various devices, including smart TVs and gaming consoles. This approach allows for the collection of device-specific data, such as browser type and operating system, facilitating the creation of unique user profiles.
- [Top Takes: Week of 2/24/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-2-24-25/) - Retail media ad impressions surpass 75 billion During the 2024 holiday season, U.S. retail media ad impressions exceeded 75 billion for the first time, marking a 4% year-over-year increase. This growth was driven by retailers like Best Buy, Chewy, and Uber Technologies, who significantly expanded their digital advertising efforts. Overall, U.S. digital ad spend across
- [Top Takes: Week of 3/3/25](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-week-of-3-3-25/) - Google tests AI mode with reasoning, thinking, and multimodal queries Google has introduced an experimental "AI Mode" in its search engine, offering users AI-generated summaries with advanced reasoning and multimodal capabilities. This feature, accessible through a new tab in Search Labs, aims to provide more comprehensive responses to complex queries by integrating text, voice, and

## Pages

- [Home](https://umiusa.com/) - At Universal Media, our approach to media strategy, planning, buying, and analytics provides clients with a clear and consistent path in today's media landscape.
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- [Kyle Cook, President/Chief Strategy Officer](https://umiusa.com/team/kyle-cook/) - I develop innovative digital media strategies by leveraging consumer data and combining it with adtech for our partners. I’m constantly guided by the mantra of “simple, simple, simple.” If we don’t make it simple, we leave our partner behind. In the current media cycle, the consumer content and decision journey is highly fragmented, which requires
- [Anne Carnathan, Chief Executive Officer](https://umiusa.com/team/anne-carnathan/) - When I joined the team 10 years ago, I had 25 years invested in the broadcasting industry. The mind-boggling media disruption in that short time has been staggering. Our job is to re-aggregate targeted consumers for retention and new growth. Every media dollar counts and our collaborative teams all have a voice at the table.
- [Nick Mickley, Vice President Integrated Media & Marketing Partnerships](https://umiusa.com/team/nick-mickley-vice-president-integrated-media-marketing-partnerships/) - Nick Mickley serves as Vice President of Media & Marketing Partnerships. He is also leading Universal Media Sports & Entertainment (USE), a division of UMI that provides partners with live Experiential Events. A team member since 2022, Nick has delivered fully Integrated Media Communications (IMC) to local and national partners for more than 18 years
- [Shaun Baker, Vice President Research & Print Media](https://umiusa.com/team/shaun-baker-vice-president-research-print-media/) - I oversee the print planning and buying while transforming traditional print-only strategies into our main vision, integrated media communications. We have seen tremendous growth in retail and digital by developing a robust, data-driven approach to our hyperlocal media services. My passion is to help companies make better, faster, more informed decisions by thoroughly analyzing media
- [Russell Rhodes, Senior Vice President Media Services](https://umiusa.com/team/russell-rhodes-senior-vice-president-media-services/) - I possess a thirst for learning that can never be fulfilled. I’ve always recognized learning is a journey, not a destination. In the current media climate, it has never been more critical. Learning is evolution and the stubbornness to keep demanding more. Tactical media is evolving so rapidly that engaging with current trends has become
- [Chris Young, CFO](https://umiusa.com/team/chris-young-cfo/) - As Chief Financial Officer, I am responsible for all aspects of controlling and forecasting the finances of the company. I have worked in all facets of the financial side of our business and have had the pleasure of being the CFO during a period of tremendous growth for the company, which we experienced over the
- [Ann Shields, Executive Vice President Chief Customer Officer](https://umiusa.com/team/ann-shields-executive-vice-president-chief-customer-officer/) - Customer service efforts are at the heart of our company. I have been a part of the team for over 30 years, starting with the company in 1988. While media has been epically disrupted, I strive consistently to make sure that ‘service’ isn’t a buzz word, it’s one of our core missions. It’s one of
- [Rick Jones, Executive Vice President Media Services](https://umiusa.com/team/rick-jones-executive-vice-president-media-services/) - I have come to realize the value of an intentional approach to growing our media expertise and application for the clients we serve. Our ongoing commitment to analyzing how and where individuals consume media has expanded our client’s opportunity for success in profound ways. We are adept, as a company, in reacting quickly to emerging
- [Don Young, Chairman](https://umiusa.com/team/don-young-chairman/) - Originally hailing from Mechanicsburg, Don started his career in New York and grew his impressive industry reputation there. When Don is not working, he spends time with his wife and family and enjoys competing at professional rodeo and tackling fishing expeditions. He is most proud of the legacy developed by the managing partners that has
- [Top Takes: Media Industry News from Universal Media Inc.](https://umiusa.com/top-takes-media-industry-news/) - TOP TAKES: MEDIA INDUSTRY NEWS Top Takes: Week of 7/6/26The AI commerce war will be fought at checkoutAs AI assistants take on more product discovery, the next competitive battleground is shifting to checkout. Retailers, payment providers, and marketplaces are [...]mitch2026-07-16T10:33:15-04:00July 10, 2026|Read More Top Takes: Week of 6/29/26Comcast eyes NBCUniversal spinoff from core business Comcast
- [Lisa Olmstead, Media Director](https://umiusa.com/team/lisa-olmstead/) - Lisa is a media and advertising professional with 20-plus years of experience in media buying and strategic planning. She started her career in Chicago and shared her time with a global, industry-leading ad agency, and a major media and communications agency. In addition to running a national fast food account, her experience extends into many
- [Mark Jones, Senior Vice President Integrated Process and Development](https://umiusa.com/team/mark-jones/) - I oversee all deployed technology to assist each department’s approved media execution. Since clear and direct communication is one of the key elements of successful media planning, deployment, and reporting, it is imperative that we utilize technology properly to collaborate with one another and our clients. Over the course of my more than 15 years

## Top Takes

- [Top Take Sample 1](https://www.engadget.com/amazons-prime-video-will-start-serving-ads-on-january-29-unless-you-pay-extra-040529534.html#new_tab) - Amazon has started notifying Prime Video subscribers that they have to pay extra if they don't want their viewing experience interrupted by commercials. In an email the company has sent to customers, it said that it will start showing "limited advertisements" with its service's movies and shows starting on January 29th. Those who want to keep