This month’s latest updates include Meta’s customer targeting update, Google Search Ads 360’s partnership with Microsoft, Google deactivation of Russian accounts and so much more. Here is your August 2024 digital marketing news:
1. Meta’s new ad updates to improve customer targeting
- Meta introduces new ad tools to drive more precise customer targeting.
- One of the features, Conversion Value Rules, define a higher bid for conversions businesses value more rather than creating a separate campaign.
- Businesses also have access to new optimization tools, attribution models and more powerful analytics models.
Source: Meta
2. Google SA360 now allows Microsoft automated bidding
- Google’s Search Ads 360 now supports Microsoft automated bidding in real-time.
- Advertisers can activate Floodlight data sharing to optimize campaigns.
- This new update features cross-engine optimizations and efficient budget and bid strategies.
Source: Google
3. WhatsApp message extensions now available in 11 more countries
- Google’s search ads WhatsApp extensions, which allow users to message advertisers directly, are now available in 11 more countries.
- The future version is now in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Singapore and Thailand.
- This feature requires you to have a business WhatsApp number and you can automate a starter message.
Source: PPC News
4. Reddit targets users with interests, not data
- Reddit wins over advertisers by targeting users’ interests and conversations rather than their data like competitors.
- The platform achieves this by matching advertisers with potential customers in subreddit communities.
- Reddit CEO states that users reveal information about themselves they don’t on other platforms.
Source: Bloomberg
5. Google deactivates Russian-based AdSense accounts
- Google announces the deactivating Russian-based AdSense accounts after suspending ad serving in 2022.
- They will begin disbursing July earnings between the 21st to 26th of August if you meet minimum payment thresholds.
- The remaining balance will be disbursed within 60 days if you meet the cancellation threshold.
Source: Google AdSense
6. Lawmakers write to Meta CEO over illicit drug ads
- A group of US lawmakers wrote to Mark Zuckerberg over the advertisement of illicit drugs on Facebook and Instagram.
- They expressed concern about their continuous facilitation of the use of illegal drugs after ongoing investigation on the same issue.
- The 19 reps sent Mark 15 questions investigating the problem, which he is to respond to by September 6.
Source: CNBC
7. TikTok makes update to alcohol policy
- TikTok updates alcohol advertising policy to adhere to applicable laws and regulations.
- To advertise alcohol, advertisers must comply with certain requirements such as promotion in approved countries, disclose alcoholic content and obtain necessary licenses.
- The policy includes a general restrictment on alcoholic ads targeting minors, featuring people below the age of 25, pregnant people, excessive drinking, amongst others.
Source: TikTok
8. Court rules Google to be a monopolist
- A US federal judge, Judge Amit Mehta, ruled that Google has violated Section 2 of the Sherman Act by monopolising search advertising.
- This decision will facilitate innovation and secure access to information for Americans.
- The court will determine the fate of Google in the next round of proceedings.
Source: The Verge
9. Google now chooses photos for local services ads
- Google will now choose from your business Local Services profile for several benefits.
- Such benefits include better user understanding, increased visibility, and ad ranking improvements.
- Advertisers must upload photos of proper size and format to their profiles.
Source: Google
10. TikTok partners with Amazon for in-app shopping
- TikTok has partnered with Amazon so users can shop without leaving the app.
- Users can enjoy this experience through product ads in TikTok’s native environment.
- Product recommendations will be displayed on the app’s For You page.
Source: PC Mag
11. X sues advertisers over alleged boycott
- X led by CEO Elon Musk, sues a group of advertisers over an alleged massive advertiser boycott.
- The suit alleged that the aliens Global Alliance for Responsible Media enabled a suspension of advertising on the platform.
- They claim that advertisers boycotted the app due to fear of their ads displaying next to hate speech and pro-Nazi content.
Source: CNBC
12. Google updates Performance Max tools
- Google introduces new AI Performance Max tools to enhance creativity and conversion.
- Advertisers now have conversion metrics and third-party verification.
- Other updates include YouTube video placements, AI image editing and expansion to App and Display campaign.
Source: Search Engine Journal
13. Pinterest testing ad auction for publishers
- Pinterest is testing a new feature that allows publishers and news platforms to sell ads by auction.
- This feature which LinkedIn is also testing may be the future of collaborations between publishers and advertisers.
Source: Search Engine Land
14. Microsoft introduces impression-based remarketing
- Microsoft introduces impression-based remarketing which helps advertisers target the audience that has seen their ads previously.
- This tool helps to enhance brand visibility and improve bids and targeting.
- Advertisers must choose a campaign or group to create an automatic list.
Source: Microsoft Advertising
15. Google adds 2.5% surcharge fees for Canadian ads
- Google announces advertisers will now be paying a 2.5% Canada DST Fee effective from October 1, 2024.
- They will add the fees to Google Ads invoice in Canada at the end of each month.
- These surcharges are subject to sales tax, VAT, GST, QST or other taxes in their respective jurisdictions.
Source: Google Ads
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