Instagram Testing "Storylines"

The DL: Instagram is testing a new Stories feature called “Storylines,” which allows friends to collaboratively build a larger, connected Story around shared events like concerts or parties. Users can add related content to each other’s Stories, creating a multi-perspective narrative that increases visibility and engagement. If public, these collaborative Stories can reach wider audiences and encourage more participation. For advertisers, this feature offers potential for organic exposure through shared experiences and user-generated content tied to real-life events. It also reinforces Instagram’s shift toward deeper, more interactive engagement—especially in Stories and DMs, which are now the app’s primary engagement zones.

Google Keeping Cookies

The DL: Google is keeping cookies in their current form, a complete shift of its five-year plan to phase out the internet trackers that symbolize privacy invasion. Tuesday 4/22, Google announced it will no longer roll out a “user choice” button in Chrome this year – this feature would have let users opt out of being tracked by third-party advertisers. The technology Google developed to serve internet ads without cookies, called Privacy Sandbox, was sometimes faulty, making it difficult for ad tech partners to conduct business, and there have been regulators in Google’s way. Keeping cookies means that the new ad tech won’t be as necessary, and that comes after tens, if not hundreds, of millions of dollars went into developing Privacy Sandbox within Google.

TV Networks Back Consistent Streaming Ads

The DL: Major TV networks including NBCUniversal, Paramount, Fox, and Warner Bros. are backing OpenAP’s push for consistent streaming advertising. The initiative aims to unify how ads are targeted, delivered, and measured across various Connected TV (CTV) and streaming platforms. By standardizing these processes, advertisers can more easily run cross-platform campaigns and measure results consistently. A key component is OpenID, a privacy-compliant identity solution that enables audience targeting without relying on third-party cookies. This collaboration signals a shift from competition to network cooperation in response to advertiser demand. It also presents a united front to compete with dominant digital ad players like Google and Amazon. This effort reflects the ongoing convergence of linear TV and digital media.

Small Businesses Deal With Shifting Economy

DL: Navigating today's shifting economic landscape presents significant hurdles for small to medium-sized businesses. Ongoing trade tensions, particularly tariffs, are creating ripples across various sectors, including media and marketing. SMBs are keenly focused on optimizing their expenditures and adapting their marketing approaches in response to these uncertainties. The fluctuating nature of tariffs introduces volatility in supply chains and consumer behavior, complicating long-term strategic planning. While some businesses explore diversifying their manufacturing or emphasizing domestic production, maintaining brand visibility through consistent marketing efforts remains a crucial consideration during these evolving times.

What's the download at hm?

April is Stress Awareness Month. Stress can impact our work and lives, but by fostering a positive environment and focusing on mental health, we can create a space where everyone thrives. Take a moment to prioritize self-care and work together to reduce stress in and out of the workplace.

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