The DL: Generation Alpha is growing up fully digital, with 43% using tablets by age 6 and 58% having smartphones by age 10. They’re already forming brand preferences, with nearly half of their parents reporting that their kids have favorite brands. Key channels to reach them include digital video—81.4% of internet users aged 0-11 watch monthly, and 50% stream daily—and gaming, with 47.7% participating monthly. Younger generations are also turning to social media over traditional search engines. Marketers that want to connect with Generation Alpha should prioritize digital video, gaming, and social media.

Read More: Basis Technologies

The DL: TikTok is shifting towards longer video uploads and seeing huge viewership growth in niches like "Beauty," "Music," and "Business and Finance." On YouTube, short video uploads (under 30 seconds) saw a 10% increase in the first half of the year, while longer clips (over 30 seconds) rose by 39%. Instagram engagement is also up, fueled by Meta's strategy to add more AI-recommended content, which now accounts for 50% of what users see. In contrast, Facebook posts are declining as users share fewer personal updates. Marketers need to adapt to these changes to stay relevant, engage audiences, and enhance brand visibility.

Read More: Social Media Today

The DL: Marketers should keep their copy short and simple to boost conversions, aiming for a fifth- to seventh-grade reading level. Focus on clear messaging, easy-to-navigate experiences, and regular testing to reduce friction and get better results.

Read More: MediaPost

The DL: Snapchat is introducing sponsored ads directly into users' conversations on the chat tab, marking a new advertising approach aimed at enhancing engagement. These ads, which will appear between chats with friends, are designed to feel less intrusive while still offering brands a direct way to connect with users. The company aims to balance the user experience with its advertising revenue goals, testing the waters on how sponsored content can coexist with personal messaging. This move reflects Snapchat’s strategy to innovate ad placements while keeping user interaction central.

Read More: The Verge