ChatGPT ads are live
State of play: OpenAI has begun rolling out ads within ChatGPT, marking the first time the popular AI chatbot will display sponsored content to users. Ads are clearly labeled and only appear for users on the standard free and “ChatGPT Go” plans. The rollout comes just hours after Anthropic, a major rival, aired Super Bowl commercials mocking the idea of advertising embedded in AI assistants – depicting humorous scenarios where chatbot answers abruptly pivot into awkward product pitches. This move highlights both the mounting pressure for OpenAI to monetize ChatGPT and the growing debate within the industry about the role and risks of advertising in conversational AI.
Why it matters: The introduction of ads in ChatGPT signals a pivotal shift in AI monetization strategies, raising questions about user trust and the integrity of AI-generated answers. Anthropic’s Super Bowl campaign – satirizing the potential for intrusive ads in chatbots – underscores public skepticism and competitive tensions as the industry navigates how to balance revenue generation with user experience. OpenAI’s approach will set important precedents for transparency, influence, and the future of AI-powered platforms, as rivals position themselves as ad-free alternatives and consumer expectations evolve.
TikTok’s US joint venture deal saves it from being banned in America
State of play: TikTok has avoided a US ban by forming the TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, transferring control of its American operations to a consortium of US investors led by Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX. ByteDance now holds less than a 20% stake, with the new entity overseeing US data protection, algorithm security, content moderation, and software assurance. Oracle will serve as the trusted security partner, responsible for compliance with national security terms. The move follows years of scrutiny over TikTok’s data practices and an executive order requiring Chinese divestment.
Why it matters: This restructuring marks a watershed for platform governance, signaling a shift toward national oversight of algorithms and user data. The US TikTok experience will change, with algorithms retrained on domestic data and new moderation standards. Brands and creators should prepare for evolving audience dynamics and regulatory expectations. The deal sets a precedent for how governments may intervene in platform operations to address security and content concerns, with implications for global digital strategy.
Fitness social media platform Strava files for IPO
State of play: Fitness tracking app Strava has confidentially filed for an IPO, underscoring the rise of social platforms built around ranking, tracking, and sharing personal achievements. Strava’s model echoes a broader trend – apps like Beli (for restaurant visits), Letterboxd (for films), and Goodreads (for books) are reshaping how users quantify and share everyday behaviors, turning personal data into social capital.
Why it matters: As social media evolves beyond likes and follows, platforms that gamify and socialize tracking are capturing new audiences and brand partnerships. For marketers, these platforms offer rich, intent-based data and opportunities to engage consumers around passion points. The IPO signals investor confidence in niche, data-driven networks, and suggests brands should monitor emerging platforms that turn everyday actions into shareable content.
Snapchat’s Spain to ban social media for individuals under 16, joining Australia, France, Malaysia, and Denmark
State of play: Spain has announced plans to ban social media access for minors under 16, joining Australia, France, Malaysia, and Denmark in a growing movement to protect young users from online harms. The Spanish government will require robust age verification and hold executives liable for illegal content and algorithmic manipulation. The coalition of “digitally willing” nations aims to enforce cross-border regulation and accountability.
Why it matters: This sweeping regulatory push reflects mounting concern over youth safety, misinformation, and algorithmic influence. Brands targeting young audiences must navigate stricter compliance and shifting demographics. Platforms face new operational and legal risks, potentially reshaping global content strategies. The coalition’s cross-border approach could accelerate harmonized regulation, raising the bar for platform responsibility worldwide.
New social media site Moltbook is like Reddit for AI chatbots
State of play: A new social media site, Moltbook, has gone viral as a platform where AI agents, dubbed “Molts,” interact, post, and share knowledge. Created by Austrian coder Peter Steinberger, Moltbook has attracted massive adoption and attention for its agentic, conversational interface. However, cybersecurity firm Wiz recently flagged a major security vulnerability, raising questions about user manipulation and agent safety.
Why it matters: Moltbook represents the next frontier in social interaction, where AI agents are both participants and creators. The platform’s rapid growth highlights the appeal of agent-driven communities, but also the urgent need for robust security and ethical standards. Brands and platforms should monitor the emergence of AI-native social networks, which could redefine engagement, moderation, and trust in digital spaces.
Amazon plans to use AI to speed up TV and film production
State of play: Amazon has announced plans to use AI to speed up TV and film production, aiming to streamline scriptwriting, casting, and post-production workflows. The initiative reflects broader industry adoption of generative AI tools to enhance creativity, efficiency, and cost management.
Why it matters: AI-driven production could transform the entertainment industry, enabling faster content creation and more personalized storytelling. For brands and creators, the shift opens new opportunities for collaboration and audience targeting. However, it also raises questions about copyright, creative control, and workforce impact—areas where regulatory clarity and ethical frameworks will be essential.
Google is paving the way for task-completing AI agents
State of play: Google is laying the groundwork for an internet where AI agents rather than humans directly interact with websites to complete tasks like shopping, booking, and customer support. Its new protocol, WebMCP, lets sites define clear, structured actions for AI agents, making these interactions faster, more accurate, and less error prone. The protocol is now in early preview for developers, signaling a major step toward seamless agent-driven online experiences.
Why it matters: As AI agents become capable of handling complex tasks across the web, the way businesses engage with customers and structure their digital presence will fundamentally change. Brands and platforms that adapt to this agentic internet by making their sites “agent-ready” will gain a competitive edge in discoverability and efficiency, while those who lag may lose relevance as AI increasingly mediates online interactions.
