Deterministic data platforms remain marketing's most valuable infrastructure despite probabilistic AI dominance, but only when integrated as ecosystem orchestrators.
by Luis Rijo
OpenAI begins testing ChatGPT ads at $60 CPM while Google launches AI Mode shopping ad formats, Discover gets a core update, and Spotify drops manual coding.
Penske Media filed opposition arguments February 12 accusing Google of shattering the fundamental exchange that sustained the open internet for decades.
Google introduces shopping ad format in AI Mode on February 11, 2026, as VP Vidhya Srinivasan positions agentic commerce and Gemini-powered tools as defining marketing trends.
Advertising platform faces $75 million revenue headwind in 2026 after major retailers slash managed services.
Amazon today made Alexa+ available to all U.S. Prime members at no additional cost, bundling the $19.99 monthly AI assistant into memberships as voice commerce competition intensifies.
Nielsen tests smartwatch-style devices to track co-viewing during Super Bowl LX and major live events, building on Big Data + Panel measurement advances.
Search volatility intensified during the first week of February 2026 as Google deployed a Discover-specific update prioritizing local content, while OpenAI began accepting advertisers for ChatGPT placements at premium rates exceeding typical social media inventory.
European Commission charges TikTok with DSA violations over infinite scroll, autoplay and push notifications that fuel compulsive behavior among minors and vulnerable users.