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, while linear TV is forecast to decline slightly despite live-event lifts. Read more from TVTechnology.
Google may let sites opt out of AI search features
Google is exploring new controls that could allow publishers to opt out of generative AI search features without affecting other search visibility. The potential change follows regulatory pressure and would give publishers more granular control than current tools allow. Read more from Search Engine Journal.
Disney+ forecast: +21% ad sales; +5% viewing
eMarketer forecasts Disney+ U.S. ad revenue will climb 21% to $1.2 billion this year and another 17% next year, even as viewing grows only modestly. The trend shows monetization is accelerating faster than audience expansion across major streaming platforms. Read more from MediaDailyNews.
Netflix continues live TV push as skyscraper climb draws 6M
Netflix reports 6.2 million global views for its Skyscraper Live event, underscoring its growing investment in live programming. The platform is adding interactive features like live voting as it expands beyond on-demand into event-based viewing. Read more from Front Office Sports.
NBC: Super Bowl LX, Olympics will stream in 4K
NBCUniversal says Super Bowl LX and the 2026 Winter Olympics will stream in full 4K on Peacock and supported NextGen TV stations. It marks the first time NBC will offer both events in 4K for their entire duration, with enhanced viewing features planned for Peacock. Read more from TheDesk.
