| Google reports coronavirus has become the biggest search topic in the US this year, so the company has launched a new information portal with information and links, and an improved search experience. “This new format organizes the search results page to help people easily navigate information and resources, and it will also make it possible to add more information over time as it becomes available,” wrote Emily Moxley, Google’s product manager for search, in a blog post.
With so many people suddenly working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Google put the brakes on adding new features to Chrome and Chrome OS. “Our goal is to ensure they continue to be stable, secure & reliable for anyone who depends on them,” said Google, which will prioritize updates for security.
Also due to the surge in people working from home, Microsoft is scaling down to prepare for high usage. “To best support our Microsoft 365 customers worldwide and accommodate new growth and demand during these unprecedented times, we’re making temporary adjustments to select non-essential capabilities,” said the company in a message center. The company added it does not expect the changes to have significant impact on user experiences.
Apple announced a “huge” update for MacBook Air, along with a new lower price of $999 ($899 for education). The new notebook boasts faster performance, the new Magic keyboard, and twice the storage. Features also include a three-way mic array for more clear voice capture; Thunderbolt 3 ports for data transfer, charging and video output in a single connector; and advances stereo speakers. The Mac mini was also updated, with double the storage capacity.
Facebook is giving a $1000 bonus to each of its full-time employees (about 45,000) to help during the COVID-19 crisis. The tech giant is also giving away $100 million in “cash grants and ad credits” to 30,000 small businesses to help with rent, cover operational costs and connect with consumers.
Facebook, Twitter, Microsoft, Google, LinkedIn, YouTube and Reddit issued a joint statement saying they are “working closely together” to combat fraud and misinformation on their platforms about COVID-19, as well as elevate authoritative content on their platforms, and share updates.
In an effort to bolster local news, Google is partnering with the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media’s Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Local Media, local news association LION Publishers and consultant Douglas K. Smith for Project Oasis. The initiative is aimed at arming local news publishers with practices that will help strengthen their digital business models and strategies.
Hulu is adding a free, live news stream to its app to help customers stay up-to-date on COVID-19 news. The coverage, provided in partnership with ABC News, offers 24/7 news to Hulu on-demand subscribers, available in ad-supported and No Ads plans.
A Facebook glitch marked some coronavirus posts as spam, blocking legitimate entries. Facebook users began noticing the issue on Tuesday, while sharing articles about the outbreak from publications like USA Today, The Atlantic and others. Facebook VP for integrity, Guy Rosen, addressed the issue, noting that the problem was due to a bug in the company’s spam-filtering system and had been fixed. “We’ve restored all the posts that were incorrectly removed which included posts on all topics – not just those related to COVID-19,” said Rosen. “This was an issue with an automated system that removes links to abusive websites, but incorrectly removed a lot of other posts, too.”
An open-source project produced a prototype ventilator, using 3D-printed parts and available, inexpensive material, in seven days with an international group of over 300 tech experts that galvanized on Facebook. The prototype is expected to be validated by Ireland’s Health Services this week, according to OSV co-founder Colin Keogh.
In a COVID-19 world, business hours broadband consumption has risen by more than 41% and overall usage in March is on track to outpace the previous monthly records, according to OpenVault. Highlights include: Subscribers’ average usage during the 9a-to-5p daypart has risen to 6.3 GB, 41.4% higher than the January figure of 4.4 GB; during the same period, peak hours (6p–11p) usage has risen 17.2% from 5.0 GB per subscriber in January to 5.87 GB in March; and overall daily usage has grown from 12.19 GB to 15.46 GB, an increase of 26.8%. For more, go here. |
 |
As we all work through this difficult time together…
Cynopsis has prepared special ad packages & products to keep you top of mind with your clients. We are the media industry’s first morning read, with an extremely high open rate. Put Cynopsis to work – let us help you meet your Q1 (+beyond) goals with: Premium Ad Positions, Program Premieres, HTML Email Campaigns, Sponsored Content, and Featured Reports.
For more details, please contact [email protected]. |
|
Out of Home has taken on new meaning these days. During the first half of the week of March 9, OOH usage levels remained consistent with previous weeks. That changed on Wednesday, after President Trump’s address on the coronavirus; on Thursday and Friday, OOH usage was down 16% and 18% from earlier in the week. Saturday and Sunday were down 50% and 47%, respectively, as the seriousness set in. For details go here.
Disney is looking to sell off advertising tech firm TrueX, part of its $71 billion acquisition of 21st Century Fox, according to the Wall Street Journal. Reportedly, Disney does not consider TrueX a core asset and has not invested in it since the acquisition. Fox bought TrueX in 2014, and co-founder Joe Marchese, who then headed ad sales for Fox Networks Group from 2017-2019, is interested in buying it back, according to the WSJ.
Viral Gains announced the launch of its VoiceAlike™ artificial intelligence technology, which leverages consumer interaction and proprietary AI to help marketers maximize customer response to their advertisements. Viral Gains magnifies brands’ ability to gauge sentiment from consumers through predicting survey responses for those who saw an advertisement with a ViralGains’ survey, but did not answer; instead of retargeting consumers with the same ad, marketers can predict their sentiment and either serve them a more appropriate ad based on their buying stage with a brand or remove them from future ads if they are not a good fit. For more, go here.
Broadcom, a supplier of chips for cable set top boxes, is suing Netflix for allegedly violating eight patents covering technologies used to run Netflix’s streaming infrastructure, including dynamic load balancing on networks, systems and methods for processing data. As a result of Netflix’s streaming services, Broadcom contends, “the market for traditional cable services that require set top boxes has declined, and continues to decline, thereby substantially reducing Broadcom’s set top box business.”
Amazon is buying the former Lord & Taylor flagship store on NYC’s Fifth Avenue, according to the New York Post. The landmark building, for which Amazon will pay $1.15 billion, will serve as the company’s New York HQ.
Programmatic ad platform Simpli.fi has released an OTT/CTV attribution feature aimed at direct-to-consumer and ecommerce marketers that measures the effectiveness of ads in near real-time. “We recognize that advertisers are in uncharted territory, and business needs are shifting,” said Frost Prioleau, CEO and co-founder of Simpli.fi. “Keeping revenue flowing is key to operating during a down-cycle. Advertising is an important way to maintain and grow revenue and it will be essential for advertisers to be able to measure against online actions.”
Media agency USIM announced a strategic relationship with Inscape, the provider of smart TV viewing data, enabling USIM to utilize Inscape’s smart TV viewing data to better understand how to use media to more precisely drive foot traffic to specific locations of its retail brand clients. “Smart TV viewing data allows USIM to better target consumers based on preferred TV channels and specific programming genres and even the devices being used which makes it possible for the agency to buy against the shows that index the highest among our retail clients’ active customers and prospects,” said Rob Jayson, EVP of Insights & Analytics for USIM. For more, go here.
STREAMING
Fox Corporation took a deep dive into the streaming business with the purchase of AVOD Tubi for $440 million. “Tubi will immediately expand our direct-to-consumer audience and capabilities and will provide our advertising partners with more opportunities to reach audiences at scale,” said Fox CEO Lachlan. “Importantly, coupled with the combined power of FOX’s existing networks, Tubi provides a substantial base from which we will drive long-term growth in the direct-to-consumer arena.” Tubi will run as an independent service, but will now offer older Fox shows for free to subscribers.
The streaming battle for eyeballs among big players like Disney, Netflix and Hulu is a big bucks competition – but how do smaller media companies and content providers compete for a piece of the expanding audience? Jonathan Laor, Founder and CEO of global tech company Applicaster, offers his insights. “While you can’t get to the Netflix level on a shoestring you definitely can walk in that direction and develop a toolkit that can grow along the way, even on smaller budgets,” he tells Cynopsis. Native apps, and particularly mobile apps, “are robust foundations for a data strategy,” adds Laor. For more, go here. |
|
Now More Than Ever…
You need the Cynopsis Upfront Navigator. Our constantly updated online resource for the busiest time of the year is the best way to keep track of the shifting Upfronts schedule.
Access:
>Calendar of the Upfront timetables: As many companies go virtual, we’ll have all the info.
>Programming News for Networks + Streamers: Guides outlining new/renewed programs, demo info, new advertiser offerings, etc.
>Updates & Press Releases: Announcements are being made daily – stay in the know!
TAKE ME THERE |
|
SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
FETV
NYC
Seeking a linear TV sales professional to generate new advertising accounts and revenue. Dvlp sales strategies for new bus. development. Bachelor’s degree; 8+ years of television selling or related advertising sales experience. Full info HERE (4/2)
SENIOR ANALYST, RESEARCH & STRATEGIC INSIGHTS >>
Bravo, Oxygen and E!/NYC: Partner with Finance, Consumer Marketing, Promo Scheduling, and Development to directly impact content strategy and audience targeting. BA degree & 2+ years of Media research experience at a broadcast or cable network, agency or vendor. Full info HERE (4/2)
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR (ADVANCED TV) >>
NBCU/NYC: Play a critical role within our fast-paced advertising sales team. 8+ years of relevant direct selling experience in advertising sales (Advanced TV) Full info HERE (4/1)
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR (ADVANCED TV) >>
NBCU/LA: Play a critical role within our fast-paced advertising sales team. 8+ years of relevant direct selling experience in advertising sales (Advanced TV) Full info HERE (4/1)
MEDIA SALES PLANNER >>
Fuse Media/NYC: Experienced candidate to join dynamic team developing customized plans and presentations for Ad Sales clients. 2-4 yrs exp media sales co., or advertising agency pref’d w/strong knwldg media math. Exc problem solving & analytical skills. Full info HERE (4/1)
Sr PUBLICITY & COMMUNICATIONS MGR >>
BABYGRANDE PR/Santa Monica: Motivated PR exec for Sr mgr or above position to dvlp strategies & implement publicity/comm campaigns for content-creators/producers. 5-7 years minimum of publicity and communications exp. Full info HERE (3/27)
MANAGER, DIGITAL SALES OPERATIONS >>
NBCU/NYC: Lead a team of Campaign Specialists responsible for setup, trafficking and optimization of Ad sales campaigns across all NBCU News properties. Min 5 yrs ad ops exp. Knwldg industry tools incl DFP, Operative, Canoe and Freewheel. Full info HERE (3/27)
ANALYST SALES OPERATIONS >>
NBCU/NYC: Help identify, evaluate & dvlp to strengthen the division, expand revenue streams that align with NBCU’s long term convergence strategy between linear & digital operations teams. Min 2 yrs of professional exp in digital advertising. Full info HERE (3/27)
MANAGING DIRECTOR, DIGITAL >>
Spectrum Networks/NYC: Lead talented team of journalist ensuring our trusted news networks engage our audience. Manage digital teams in mult locations. 10+ years relevant newsroom management experience in a fast-paced, constantly evolving digital publishing envir. Full info HERE (3/26)
MANAGING DIRECTOR, DIGITAL MID-WEST >>
Spectrum Networks/Columbus OH: Lead the pioneering approach on delivering impactful and relevant content to the communities we serve. Manage digital teams in mult locations. 10+ years relevant newsroom management experience in a fast-paced, constantly evolving digital publishing envir. Full info HERE (3/26)
MGR, CHILDRENS TV >>
The Jim Henson Co/LA: Self-starter w/ability to work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced envir for Creative Affairs dept. Identify new projects & talent, oversee dvlpmnt of series to pitch & sell to the various ntwrks & studios. Min 2 yrs exp as a Coord in children’s TV w/exp in preschool arena. Full info HERE (3/26)
GRAPHIC OPERATIONS MANAGER >>
PAC-12/SF: Oversee the building, development and localization of studio-based Chyron package. Minimum of 7+ years in production and technical operations is necessary. Full info/apply HERE (3/26)
MGR, BRAND STRATEGY & COMMUNICATIONS >>
PEACOCK – NBCU/NYC: world-class strategist who will bring every aspect of our brand to life—from go-to-market planning, to IP, to audience development. 6 yrs brand planning/marketing strategy exp (TV/DTC) from the entertainment, advertising, or consumer products industry. Full info HERE (3/25)
VP PROGRAMMING >>
TLC/New York or Silver Spring MD: Critical thinker to drive audience growth for TLC’s content. Responsible for inventory planning, scheduling, budgeting, and cross-departmental communication. 10+ yrs relevant exp required. Apply Full info HERE (3/25)
MANAGER, CONTENT ACQUISITIONS DILIGENCE >>
ION TELEVISION/NYC: Resp for quantitative diligence & analytical support for content acquisitions. Transform data-driven insights into quantitative analysis, financial modeling and presentations. Mng Content Mkt Pipeline, incl exhibition & sales history. Full info HERE (3/25)
SPECIALIST – DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA >>
TLC/Silver Spring MD or NYC: Create and publish the best digital & social content experiences for TLC and Discovery Life. Implement effective, innovative & influential social media strategies as the brand’s voice. 3+ yrs exp in social media marketing required. Full info/apply HERE (3/25)
MEDIA SALES PLANNER >>
Fuse Media/NYC: Experienced candidate to join dynamic team developing customized plans and presentations for Ad Sales clients. 2-4 yrs exp media sales co., or advertising agency pref’d w/strong knwldg media math. Exc problem solving & analytical skills. Full info HERE (3/24)
SOCIAL MEDIA INSIGHTS & ANALYTICS CONSULTANT (PT) >>
A+E Networks/NY: Part time candidate to provide insight to inform digital monetization team, guide strategy, provide feedback on performance, & identify key opportunities to build A+E’s presence across social platforms & maximize revenue. Full info HERE (3/24)
DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY >>
beIN Sports/Miami FL: Establish/maintain relationships w/ System level & Sr MSO staffs. Identify & direct mktg opps to ensure maximum revenue potential from accounts. Min 5-10 yrs exp in affiliate mktg or sales within ent/media, pref at a cable TV network w/est’d industry contacts. Full info HERE (3/24)
MANAGER, INVENTORY (TEMP) >>
Crown Media Family Networks/NYC: Mng process of monitoring and tracking all inventory through WideOrbit and Dealmaker reporting systems, while manually updating all ongoing daily changes. 2 or yrs exp in pricing and planning or advertising sales. Full info HERE (3/24)
SR DIRECTOR, INSIGHTS & POSITIONING OLYMPICS >>
NBCU/NYC: Drive research innovation, measurement opps & forward-thinking sales solutions for the Olympics. Must possess business & analytical acumen necessary to interpret and anticipate client needs & business implications. 10+ yrs exp rsrch, measurement or insights within sports ind. Full info HERE (3/24)
DIRECTOR, PROGRAMMING & PRODUCTION >>
WHYY TV12/Philadelphia PA: Oversee national & local TV programming on broadcast, cable/satellite, live linear streaming and digital video platforms. Key liaison between Content Prod, Communication & Member Relations, Development and Institutional Advancement. Full info HERE (3/24)
MGR, MEDIA RELATIONS >>
FX/LA: Mng daily implementation of public relations for assigned FX programs. Plan/implement press and PR-related objectives & programs, assisting with the strategic plan’g. 5 yr previous exp publicity at a network or agency pref’’d. Full info HERE (3/23)
SALES COORDINATOR >>
Dish Media/NY: Responsible for the daily account management and support to assigned Account Executives. Support 1-2 Account Executives and planners. Full info HERE (3/23)
MARKETING STRATEGY >>
MGR/Discovery/LA or NYC: Top creative to plan/execute campaigns on/off platforms to build awareness & drive engagement for the Discovery, Animal Planet & Science brands/shows. Analyze audience inside out to dvlp strong campaigns across on-air, cross and paid media 5+ yrs exp req’d. Full info HERE (3/23)
DIRECTOR, PAID MEDIA >>
STRATEGY/Discovery/NYC: Lead effort of all media strategy for a key group of networks, mktg counterparts & internal team to acquire consumers who will watch the Discovery networks on various devices while focusing on top level network analysis and more. 7+ yrs paid media plan’g exp req’d. Full info HERE (3/23)
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE DR >>
Fuse Media/NYC: Responsible for maintaining/growing our Direct Response business while working closely with internal depts to optimize inventory and maximize revenue to achieve quarterly and annual goals. Full info HERE (3/23)
DESIGNER ANIMATOR >>
A+E/NYC: Highly skilled 2d/3d Motion Designer/Animator to support growing team within Prod Operations. Create compelling, fresh design ideas and typography solutions that will help brand our Networks and be highly adept at broadcast design, branding, on-air & off-air design conventions & post-prod process. Min 5 yrs exp in Broadcast Design with a refined eye for design and extensive knowledge of Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Cinema 4D. APPLY HERE (3/23)
ASST MEDIA MANAGER (AMM) >>
Ad Council/NY: Seeking media strategist who is passionate about using their talent for social good work. The AMM is resp for assting day-to-day management of relats with pro-bono media agencies across all campaigns. Min 2 yrs exp in the media or adv. Must thrive on being organized/detail-oriented in a fast-paced and deadline-driven envir. Full info HERE (3/23)
MANAGER, AD SALES MKTG >>
Dish Media/NY: Looking for a smart, energetic and strategic thinker to drive awareness and rev for Dish and Sling in the advertising marketplace. Min 5 yrs in Advertising Sales or Marketing field with exp managing direct reports. Full info HERE (3/23)
SUMMER INTERN >>
Dish Media/NY: Is looking the next generation of leaders. Interns will have the opportunity to work in Advertising Sales/ Marketing, Data Analytics/ Market Research, Pricing & Inventory/ Finance. Full time from 6/8-7/31. Plus competitive pay. Full Info HERE (3/23)
VP, SALES DEVELOPMENT >>
ION Media/NY: Looking for a dynamic and exp. sales leader to oversee the development of overall sales strategies in breaking new categories and bringing in new business. Min 10 yrs. of Sales Management exp. with a demonstrated ability to bring in new revenue. Full info HERE EOE (3/23)
DIGITAL MRKTG MGR >>
NBC Universal/Phila, PA: Seeking a superstar to join our high-performance sls team. Ideal candidate must have digital mrktg knowledge, excellent people and communication skills, superior “bandwidth”, and is true team player. Min 5yrs exp with a deep understanding of digital video selling. Full info HERE (3/23) |
|
|
