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In an ever-evolving digital landscape, understanding the latest updates in technology and advertising is essential for staying ahead. The following highlights key innovations and updates that can transform your marketing strategies and improve your results.
Google Tests AI-Powered ‘Ask for Me’ Feature for Local Business Calls
Google’s new “Ask for Me” feature automates local business calls to provide pricing and availability, streamlining user experience. Implementing this can save time for consumers and businesses, offering efficiency and transparency.
Google has unveiled the AI-powered “Ask for Me” feature, currently tested in Search Labs, to assist users in gathering pricing and availability details from local businesses. This innovative tool focuses on simplifying service queries for businesses like auto repair shops and nail salons. Accessible via desktop and mobile, users can input preferences, and AI, leveraging Google Duplex technology, completes the calls on their behalf.
Businesses retain autonomy, as they can opt out and receive notifications for AI-driven interactions. Additionally, human reviewers ensure call quality and accuracy. While still in a trial phase in the U.S., this feature signals a significant step in enhancing local business accessibility, potentially expanding into other industries. Companies adopting AI solutions like this can improve customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Full article URL: https://labs.google.com/search/experiment/26
Meta to Remove Audience Type Selection in Advantage+ Catalog Sales Campaigns
Meta’s removal of manual Audience Type selection emphasizes AI-driven targeting, promoting better results with reduced manual effort. Advertisers should adapt to leverage the Audiences interface for efficient campaign customization.
Meta plans to phase out manual Audience Type selection in Advantage+ catalog campaigns. Advertisers will shift to creating catalog-based custom audiences through the Audiences interface, preserving current functionality with minimal disruption.
This move aligns with Meta’s focus on AI-powered broad targeting, encouraging adoption of Advantage+ solutions. While no timeline is announced, businesses should prepare by familiarizing themselves with the new interface. These changes reflect Meta’s aim to simplify targeting while maintaining precision, enabling more effective and scalable advertising strategies.
Full article URL: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7290674824622788609/
Microsoft in Talks to Acquire TikTok Amid Bidding War Interest
Microsoft’s potential TikTok acquisition, spurred by national security concerns, could reshape the app’s U.S. operations. Companies following such developments can align strategies with emerging consumer trends.
Amid growing pressure from U.S. administrations, ByteDance is compelled to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations. Microsoft has emerged as a key contender, with President Trump advocating for a competitive bidding process.
Although ByteDance approached Microsoft in 2020, the potential acquisition remains uncertain, with interest from Oracle and other parties. As the situation evolves, businesses can anticipate changes in social media dynamics and adjust strategies accordingly.
Full article URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g3z55zz7xo
Google Enhances Performance Max with Advanced Reporting and Targeting Features
Google’s Performance Max updates provide advertisers with detailed targeting and reporting capabilities, enabling optimized campaigns with greater transparency. Businesses leveraging these tools can drive higher ROI.
Performance Max has introduced new features for 2025, including campaign-level negative keywords, advanced customer acquisition goals, and improved brand exclusions. New reporting tools also offer insights into search themes and asset group performance.
Advertisers can expect enhanced control over ad placements and creative strategies, with the updates shaped by user feedback. These changes reflect Google’s commitment to improving ad efficiency and transparency across platforms.
Full article URL: https://blog.google/products/ads-commerce/new-performance-max-features-2025/
Instagram Extends Reels Duration to Three Minutes
Instagram’s extension of Reels to three minutes allows for richer storytelling and enhanced user engagement. Adapting to this change can help creators and brands expand their reach.
Acknowledging creator feedback, Instagram has increased Reels’ maximum video length to three minutes. This update offers more flexibility while maintaining its short-form video essence.
The update is live, enabling creators to produce more dynamic content that aligns with their storytelling needs. Businesses can capitalize on this feature for more engaging campaigns.
Full article URL: https://www.threads.net/@mosseri/post/DE-efFqyStv
Google Enhances Demand Gen with New Controls and Features
Google’s Demand Gen updates empower retailers with expanded ad placement controls, creative enhancements, and improved performance metrics. Brands using these tools can expect superior campaign outcomes.
New features include channel customization for YouTube Shorts, product feeds, and enhanced creative options like vertical video ads. Reporting improvements also allow comparison with social ad metrics.
Retailers benefit from real-time product availability displays, helping drive in-store visits. These updates ensure businesses can achieve better ROAS while engaging visually-oriented audiences like Gen Z.
Full article URL: https://developer.chrome.com/blog/web-vitals-extension-merged
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