Month: February 2024

Google faces $2.27 billion lawsuit by publishers over advertising practices

Google is facing a $2.27 billion lawsuit by 32 media groups claiming that the company’s digital advertising practices have led to financial losses.

The publishers, including Axel Springer and Schibsted, are based in various countries across Europe, such as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, and Sweden.

What the lawsuit is saying. A statement issued by the media groups’ lawyers Geradin Partners and Stek said per Reuters:

  • “The media companies involved have incurred losses due to a less competitive market, which is a direct result of Google’s misconduct.”
  • “Without Google’s abuse of its dominant position, the media companies would have received significantly higher revenues from advertising and paid lower fees for ad tech services. Crucially, these funds could have been reinvested into strengthening the European media landscape.”

What Google is saying. Google denies the allegations and has described them as “speculative and opportunistic.” Oliver Bethell, Legal Director, Google, told Search Engine Land in a statement:

  • “Google works constructively with publishers across Europe – our advertising tools, and those of our many adtech competitors, help millions of websites and apps fund their content, and enable businesses of all sizes to effectively reach new customers.”
  • “These services adapt and evolve in partnership with those same publishers. This lawsuit is speculative and opportunistic. We’ll oppose it vigorously and on the facts.”

Timing. This lawsuit follows the French competition authority imposing a $238 million fine on Google for its ad tech business in 2021, as well as the charges brought by the European Commission last year, both of which are referenced in the media groups’ claim.

Dutch court. The group chose to file the lawsuit in a Dutch court because the country is well-known for handling antitrust damages claims in Europe. This decision helps avoid dealing with multiple claims across different European countries.

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Deep dive. Read our antitrust trial updates article for information on Google’s legal battles in the U.S., where the tech giant is being sued by the U.S. Justice Department.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-lawsuit-advertising-practices-media-groups-axelspringer-437982

YouTube expands free editing app to 13 new markets

YouTube Create, a mobile app designed to make editing videos easier, is expanding to 13 more markets in beta.

Content creators can now download the app for free in the PlayStore on Android in the following additional countries:

  • Argentina
  • Australia.
  • Brazil.
  • Canada.
  • Finland.
  • Hong Kong.
  • Ireland.
  • Netherlands.
  • New Zealand.
  • Spain.
  • Taiwan.
  • Thailand.
  • Turkey.

What is YouTube Create? YouTube Create is a free mobile app that allows you to edit Shorts or longer videos for YouTube. You can also add soundtracks, captions, and more, all directly from your phone.

Why we care. The app helps users to enhance the quality of their YouTube content without the need for additional expensive editing tools or complicated desktop software.

What YouTube is saying. Conor Kavanagh, Lead for Monetization Policy at YouTube, said:

  • “In September, we announced the beta launch of YouTube Create, a new app that gives mobile creators the tools they need to take their videos to the next level.”
  • “With YouTube Create, you can easily make high-quality videos with editing tools, effects, filters and transitions all in an intuitive easy-to-use interface.”

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Deep dive. Watch YouTube’s announcement in full for more information.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/youtube-create-expands-markets-437985

Innovative Uses for Steel Reels in Various Industries

Home Business Magazine Online

In the dynamic world of industrial applications, the adaptability and resilience of steel reels have positioned them as a fundamental component across a broad spectrum of sectors. While traditionally tethered to the wire and cable industry for their primary use in transportation and storage, the uses for steel reels have broadened, finding innovative applications that transcend their original purpose.

This exploration sheds light on the diverse and creative uses of steel reels in various industries, underscoring their versatility and significant contributions to enhancing operational efficiencies and sustainability.

Uses of Steel Reels in the Construction Industry

The construction sector has embraced steel reels for their robustness and versatility, extending their use beyond cable management. Steel reel has been ingeniously repurposed for scaffolding frameworks, temporary structural supports, and even integral components in concrete formwork systems.

Their durability makes them particularly suited to the demanding conditions of construction sites, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution for various construction needs. This innovative application optimizes resource use and contributes to waste reduction by repurposing and recycling materials.

Revolutionizing the Energy Sector

In the realm of energy, particularly within the burgeoning field of renewable resources, steel reels have played a pivotal role in transforming operational practices. Wind energy projects, for instance, leverage steel reels to efficiently handle and deploy the extensive cabling required to connect turbines to the power infrastructure.

This application streamlines the installation process, bolstering the safety and reliability of energy transmission networks. The inherent durability of steel reels ensures they can withstand the rigors of diverse environments, from the challenging conditions of offshore wind farms to the expansive reaches of solar energy installations, underscoring their value in promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Steel Reels in the Entertainment Industry

The entertainment sector, particularly in the context of large-scale events and productions, presents an unconventional yet highly effective application for steel reels. Employed to manage the extensive array of cables required for lighting, sound, and special effects, steel reels ensure the logistical aspects of event setup and breakdown are streamlined, safe, and efficient.

This application highlights the adaptability of steel reels, demonstrating their capacity to support the intricate and dynamic requirements of the entertainment industry, thereby facilitating the seamless execution of events.

Expanding Horizons in Logistics and Transportation

The logistics and transportation industry has also discovered innovative uses for steel reels, leveraging their strength and durability to optimize the handling and distribution of goods. Steel reels are secure mounting frames for transporting delicate equipment, ensuring stability and protection during transit.

This application minimizes the risk of damage and enhances the efficiency of loading and unloading operations, contributing to smoother logistics workflows and reduced operational costs.

Steel Reels in the Manufacturing Sector

In manufacturing, steel reels have found a new purpose in the organization and management of raw materials and finished products. They are robust cores for winding materials, from textiles and films to rubber and metal sheets, facilitating efficient storage, transportation, and subsequent processing.

This innovative use of steel reels in manufacturing processes underscores their contribution to maintaining product integrity and streamlining production lines, thereby boosting overall manufacturing efficiency.

The Role of Steel Reels in Environmental Sustainability

Beyond their functional applications, uses for steel reels play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability across industries. Their durability and reusability reduce the need for single-use packaging and storage solutions, contributing to waste reduction and resource conservation.

Moreover, the recyclability of steel reels aligns with circular economy principles, further minimizing their environmental footprint. By facilitating the reuse and recycling of materials, steel reels embody sustainable practices that resonate with the growing global emphasis on environmental responsibility.

Steel Reels in Art and Public Installations

Venturing into the realm of creativity, steel reels have been repurposed as elements in art installations and public sculptures. Artists and designers have recognized steel reels’ aesthetic and structural potential, transforming them into striking pieces of public art that challenge perceptions and inspire communities.

This unconventional application showcases the versatility of the use of steel reels and contributes to cultural enrichment and the beautification of public spaces.

Future Prospects: Innovations and Developments

As industries continue to evolve, the potential for innovative uses of steel reels is boundless. Technology and materials science advancements may lead to the developing of even more durable, lightweight, and adaptable steel reels. This would further expand their applications in various sectors.

Integrating smart technologies could also enhance the functionality of steel reels, enabling real-time tracking and management of resources, thereby contributing to the advancement of smart logistics and manufacturing practices.

Conclusion

The innovative uses of steel reels across various industries underscore their adaptability, durability, and value. From construction and energy to logistics, manufacturing, and even art, steel reels have proven to be more than just a tool for cable management. They are a versatile asset that enhances operational efficiency, promotes sustainability, and inspires creativity.

As industries continue to seek innovative solutions to meet evolving demands, the role of steel reels is set to grow. This further solidifies their position as an indispensable component in the industrial and creative landscapes.

The post Innovative Uses for Steel Reels in Various Industries appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/management/operations/innovative-uses-steel-reels-industries/

Exploring the Advantages of Pursuing a Bachelor of Business in Australia

Home Business Magazine Online

Embarking on a Bachelor of Business in Australia equips students with a robust foundation in business mechanics, essential for thriving in contemporary corporate landscapes. This comprehensive program fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, crucial for navigating and innovating within dynamic markets. Globally, students are drawn to Australia’s educational clout, with its programs offering a unique blend of academic rigor and practical learning opportunities.

This educational journey not only sharpens creativity and innovation but also positions graduates for global career successes. If you’re contemplating a business degree, Australia’s unique blend of academic excellence and real-world relevance is an option that merits serious consideration.

In the future, you may even want to pursue a postgraduate course in business — a savvy move that could amplify your professional growth.

Benefits of Pursuing a Bachelor of Business in Australia

Experience Australia’s Exemplary Education Standards

Students in Australia benefit from a meticulously regulated education system that prioritises their well-being and ensures the highest standard of learning. Regulatory bodies, such as the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), actively oversee educational institutions.

These agencies guarantee that your experience will be nothing short of exceptional. Moreover, Australian business schools are renowned for their state-of-the-art facilities and stimulating learning atmospheres. This powerful combination not only enhances academic knowledge but also significantly elevates one’s professional trajectory.

Enhance Your English Proficiency and Communication Skills

In the realm of international business, proficiency in English is not just advantageous; it’s essential. Australia, with its immersive English-speaking environment, provides an ideal backdrop for honing your language skills to a professional level. As you navigate through a Bachelor of Business program in this vibrant setting, you’re likely to see a marked improvement in your fluency and grasp of business-related communication nuances.

Australian educational institutions are particularly attuned to the needs of international students, offering tailored English language support that empowers you to build confidence and competently engage in diverse professional scenarios. Whether presenting in a boardroom or negotiating with international clients, your refined linguistic abilities will serve as a cornerstone for success in a global marketplace.

Broadens Career Prospects and Opportunities

Securing a Bachelor of Business degree from Australia can dramatically amplify your employability, giving you an edge in a competitive job market. Recognised globally, Australian qualifications resonate with employers who value the multifaceted expertise and innovative approach that such graduates bring to the table.

Equipped with this degree, you stand poised to excel in any corporate arena – be it with a fledgling startup, an established multinational, or the adventurous path of entrepreneurship. An Australian business education doesn’t just empower you to chase your dreams—it gives you the practical tools to transform them into tangible achievements.

Concentrate on the Right Field of Study

Universities across Australia offer an extensive selection of business courses, ensuring that international students can pinpoint the exact field that aligns with their aspirations. Whether you’re inclined towards marketing, accounting, finance, or international business, you’ll find programs tailored to both your professional objectives and academic interests.

Additionally, the plethora of institutions available means that you’ll have the flexibility to choose a school that not only suits your learning style but also offers specialised resources to support your individual career path.

Immerse Yourself in Australia’s Vibrant Lifestyle and Culture

As you embark on your educational journey, Australia’s inviting cities offer more than just outstanding academics; they represent some of the most liveable cities in the world. The experience of studying for your Bachelor of Business in Australia is akin to discovering a hidden gem. Each day presents an opportunity to create memories that last a lifetime. While academia can sometimes be demanding, the satisfaction and personal growth you gain are nothing short of captivating.

Moreover, balancing work and study is a realistic option in Australia. International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic semester, allowing them to complement their studies with practical experience and financial independence. This not only enhances your resume but infuses your academic endeavours with real-world insights.

Australia is a nation renowned for its relaxed ethos and high quality of life. It’s an environment where the pursuit of knowledge meets the pleasure of cultural exploration, making for an enriching and balanced education experience.

Gain Personal Independence and Self-Discovery

Living and studying in Australia presents a unique opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Far from the familiarity of home and family, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant culture, tasked with navigating day-to-day life independently. While such a transition can be challenging, it also catalyses the development of key life skills that are invaluable to your professional journey.

You’ll likely notice an evolution in yourself, becoming more punctual, organised, and confident as you adapt to your new environment. These traits, forged in the crucible of personal independence, are not just markers of self-improvement, but assets that will enhance your career resilience and capability.

Foster Heightened Self-Confidence Through Rigorous Academia

An unparalleled advantage of obtaining a Bachelor of Business in Australia is the profound impact it has on both your professional portfolio and your self-assurance. The notable presence of an Australian business degree on your curriculum vitae serves as a beacon to prospective employers, signalling a candidate of exceptional calibre. More than a mere academic accolade, this degree is a testament to your tenacity and adaptability, central pillars of self-confidence.

The academic rigour paired with the dynamic life experience Australia offers can indeed be demanding; however, the resilience and social dexterity you cultivate in response are priceless. As you return home, the transformative journey imparts a sharper professional edge, inspiring confidence and embodying the quintessence of growth and wisdom.

The post Exploring the Advantages of Pursuing a Bachelor of Business in Australia appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/lifestyles/education/eadvantages-pursuing-bachelor-business-australia/

Starting a Business from Your Home: Basics to Know

Home Business Magazine Online

Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey of starting a business from the comfort of your own home is both an exciting and daunting prospect. With the flexibility of setting your own hours and the reduction in overhead costs, it’s no wonder many are drawn to this appealing setup. Yet, the path to success is paved with its own unique set of challenges. This article aims to dissect the basics of starting a home-based business, ensuring you’re well-equipped to take your first steps.

Creating a Dedicated Workspace

The importance of demarcating a specific area of your home for work cannot be overstated. Not only does it enhance productivity by minimizing distractions, but it also helps in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Consider the ergonomics of your workplace; comfort and functionality should go hand in hand to foster an environment conducive to creativity and efficiency.

Networking and Collaboration

Creating a strong network of contacts and collaborators can significantly boost your home-based business. Leveraging professional networking sites, attending industry-relevant webinars and virtual meetups, and joining local business associations are smart ways to expand your network. Collaborating with other businesses can also open up new avenues for growth and innovation.

Whether you’re moving to accommodate a growing business or simply looking for a change in scenery, making smart decisions about your home’s sale can be crucial. For those based in Fort Worth, reaching out to Fort Worth TX home buyers can provide insight into alternative and simplified selling processes, offering a different perspective on real estate transactions in the area.

Understanding Legalities

Before you dive into the creative storm of your business idea, it’s crucial to navigate the legal landscape. This entails registering your business, understanding any zoning laws that apply to home-based businesses in your area, and obtaining necessary licenses or permits. Ensuring compliance from the start can save you from headaches down the road.

Developing a Business Plan

Every successful venture of starting a business from your home begins with a solid plan. This document will act as your roadmap, outlining your business idea, target market, competition, marketing strategies, financial projections, and more. It’s not just a requirement for seeking investment but a crucial tool for clarity and direction.

Finding Your Niche

Identifying a niche can make or break your home-based business. It’s about finding a balance between what you love, what you’re good at, and what the market needs. Conduct thorough market research to pinpoint a niche that’s both viable and underserved. This strategy enhances your chances of success by reducing competition and increasing market demand for your unique offerings.

Building an Online Presence

In today’s digital age, an online presence is indispensable for any business. Start by creating a professional website and engaging actively on social media platforms relevant to your target audience. This not only builds credibility but also allows you to market your business efficiently and cost-effectively.

Staying Motivated and Productive

When the novelty wears off, maintaining motivation and productivity can become a challenge in the home environment. Setting regular work hours, taking scheduled breaks, and dressing for work can create a more professional atmosphere and help in cultivating discipline. Joining online communities or networks related to your business can also provide support and inspiration.

Managing Finances

Effective financial management is the backbone of any business. For home-based businesses, it’s important to keep personal and business finances separate. Utilize budgeting tools and software to track your expenses and income. Additionally, understanding the basics of taxation for home-based businesses can ensure you’re not caught off guard when tax season comes around.

Adapting to Market Changes

Market trends and consumer needs are always evolving, making adaptability a key attribute for business success. Stay informed about your industry and be ready to pivot your business model or product offering to meet changing market demands. This agility can be a major competitive advantage, particularly for home-based businesses that often have more flexibility to implement swift changes than their larger counterparts.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance

One of the biggest challenges of starting a business from home is the potential for work to encroach upon your personal life. It’s crucial to set clear boundaries between work time and personal time. Make a conscious effort to unplug from your business activities during designated downtime. This discipline not only prevents burnout but also ensures that both your business and personal life can thrive.

Conclusion

Starting a business from home is an adventure that requires careful planning, dedication, and resilience. While the journey may come with its set of challenges, the rewards of building something from scratch and watching it grow are incomparable. By paying close attention to the basics outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to laying the foundation of a successful home-based business. Remember, every big achievement begins with the decision to try. So, take the plunge and embark on your entrepreneurial journey today.

The post Starting a Business from Your Home: Basics to Know appeared first on Home Business Magazine.

Original source: https://homebusinessmag.com/business-start-up/how-to-guides/starting-business-from-home-basics/

Reminder – Google is enforcing stricter rules for consumer finance ad targeting

Google will start enforcing tougher restrictions on personalized ads related to consumer financial products and services from tomorrow, February 28.

Any breaches of the updated policy will prompt a warning, with the possibility of account suspension.

It’s worth noting that the full enforcement of these measures may take approximately six weeks to be fully implemented.

Why we care. Make sure your personalized ads comply with Google’s updated policy now, as this is your final opportunity before the new restrictions kick in. If your account gets suspended for policy violations, it can seriously impact campaign performance, and lifting suspensions can be difficult. Act now to avoid disruptions.

What’s changing? Google’s “credit in personalized ads” policy will be broadened to include “consumer finance in personalized ads.” The updated policy will say:

  • “In the United States and Canada, the following sensitive interest categories cannot be targeted to audiences based on gender, age, parental status, marital status, or ZIP code.”

The update will apply to offers relating to credit or products or services related to credit lending, banking products and services, or certain financial planning and management services. Examples include:

  • Credit cards
  • Home loans
  • Car loans
  • Appliance loans
  • Short-term loans
  • Banking and checking accounts
  • Debt management products

What Google is saying. A Google spokesperson told Search Engine Land:

  • “We’ve long had personalized ads policies that prohibit advertisers from targeting people on the basis of sensitive categories. This update strengthens our ongoing efforts to protect consumers, expanding our credit in personalized ads policy to additional consumer finance ad categories in the US and Canada.”

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Deep dive. Read Google’s full blog post for more information.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-enforcing-stricter-rules-consumer-finance-ad-targeting-437939

Google unveils major Search Partner Network update as it removes opt-out option

Google is giving advertisers more control over ad placement within the Search Partner Network.

From March 4, advertisers using Performance Max will have access to impression-level placement reporting of Search Partner Network sites.

Additionally, if you exclude certain ad placements at the account level, it will now apply to the Search Partner Network, as well as YouTube and display ads, according to Ad Age.

Why now? These substantial changes come after an Adalytics report accused Google of quietly placing search ads on inappropriate non-Google websites through the Search Partner Network – including sites containing pornographic, sanctioned and pirated content. Google denied the claims, saying Adalytics has a track record of publishing inaccurate reports that misrepresent Google’s products.

Changes. Before the Adalytics report was published in November, all Pmax campaigns were automatically opted into the Search Partner Network and could not opt out. For other campaigns, being opted into search partners was the default setting, but advertisers had the option to opt out.

Following the Adalytics report, Google temporarily permitted Pmax users to opt out of search partner inventory until March 1. As this option is set to be removed, Google is now providing advertisers with unprecedented insights and control over ad placement within the Search Partner Network.

Why we care. Advertisers will gain better control and insights into the placement of their ads within the Search Partner Network. This enables them to address concerns about their ads being placed near inappropriate content, safeguarding their brand reputation.

What is the Search Partner Network? The Search Partner Network consists of websites and apps that collaborate with Google to display search ads. This network extends beyond traditional search platforms and includes major Google properties such as YouTube and Google Discover. Additionally, it encompasses numerous other websites that may not be directly associated with typical search activities.

Why are campaigns added to the SPN? Google opts campaigns are opted into the Search Partner Network because the search engine claims it sees “a measurable improvement” in clicks and conversion when advertisers extend their reach to these sites.” Opting into the SPN can enable advertiser to reach customers on sites like YouTube.

What is Adalytics? Adalytics is a crowd-sourced advertising performance optimization platform that was set up to review and improve the digital advertising landscape. 

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Deep dive. You can learn more about Adalytics’ investigation by reading its report ‘Does a lack of transparency create brand safety concerns for search advertisers?‘

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-search-partner-network-update-control-437948

How SMBs are approaching digital marketing in 2024

A new report released this month by Intero Digital (disclosure: I previously worked with Intero), “Revolutionizing Reach: The 2024 Digital Marketing Landscape You Can’t Ignore,” checks the yearly pulse for the digital spending and marketing activities of its SMB client list. 

The report covers a wide digital landscape and includes the results of their client survey, as well as insights and strategies for addressing the pain points and goals marketers face this year. Some of the key coverage areas include:

  • Digital marketing spending trends.
  • Top digital marketing goals for 2024.
  • Content marketing trends.
  • Emerging trends and data in Amazon marketing.
  • Emerging trends in paid advertising.
  • Transformation in the SEO space.
  • Influencer marketing.
  • Video marketing tactics and strategy.

Let’s look at a few highlights and key insights from the report.

Key digital marketing priorities for SMBs in 2024

The first finding should not surprise those actively engaged in digital marketing across various industries, verticals, niches and three-letter acronyms like “B2C” and “B2B”. The most important thing on digital marketer’s minds in 2024 is revenue growth, prioritized as the top goal by 79% of respondents. 

While “growth” is something of a given for most marketers, it is still worth stating, if only to get it out of the way and focus on the digital marketing strategies and activities that actually drive it. But for the digital marketers in this survey, what really matters is the final result – the bottom line.

Marketers aren’t backing down this year in their quest for growth, with 46.2% planning to increase spending, zero percent decreasing and 53.8% planning to stay the same.

Digital marketing spend in 2024 - survey question

The biggest digital marketing pain points for 2024

The path to revenue growth and lead generation is filled with obstacles, and the survey respondents also outlined many of their common and shared challenges.

Biggest pain points in 2024 - survey question

Aside from revenue, the top pain points were lead generation, budget constraints, competition and changing algorithms and SEO best practices. While these points are cited individually, they are oftentimes interconnected. 

Competition is fierce everywhere marketers are chasing the bottom line across many different digital channels, and it doesn’t appear things will settle down any time soon. 

When competition is fierce, more investment is often needed to be competitive, be it paid or earned media. This leads to the pain point of effectively measuring digital marketing ROI.

Budget constraints often stem from ineffective measurement and tracking systems. Ultimately, what’s crucial is a comprehensive and well-executed digital marketing strategy and tactical plan, whether focusing on a single channel or across multiple channels.

Up to 7.7% of respondents had branding as a pain point. Building a brand across crowded and competitive digital spaces can be challenging this year, as it takes a lot of work, budget and time. Combined with multiple other pain points, marketers have a lot of work ahead of them this year.

The top digital marketing goals for 2024

Biggest goals in 2024 - survey question

In the “Biggest Goals” section of the survey, “Revenue growth” topped the list at 79.5%, then dropped a bit for each of the supporting goals. In second place were “More web traffic” and “Higher positioning in the SERPs” (each at 38.5%). 

Interestingly, while lead generation was the number two biggest pain point (33.3%), it came in fifth place for the biggest goal (30.8%). Are the lead generators giving up? Nope. With the close percentages, it appears they’re consistent with their priorities.

It is also interesting to see brand awareness and thought leadership prominently in this goal list (33.3%), especially when it is often difficult to attribute to revenue and it was not as much of a pain point. 

The biggest barrier to entry for thought leadership is actually having the best ideas and insight. For those who do, this can be one of the easiest goals to accomplish in 2024.

Again, when done well, it can complement and drive goals of more traffic, higher positioning, more growth, more qualified leads and so on.

Content marketing insights

Another interesting part of this study was a review of over 100,00 pieces of content. In their analysis, Intero found that the “most-shared” content had an average word count of 552, down considerably from the previous year’s analysis of 792 words. 

The implication is that messaging was more important than being wordy, at least in the social context. For marketers competing in the SEO space with higher word counts, a balance should be struck in the content strategy to emphasize both channels through content.

Marketing publishers are also looking to diversify their content in 2024 beyond the written word. Some top asset types utilized by digital marketers this year include video (41% of marketers utilizing), podcasts (41%) and the top diversified activity, newsletters (47%).

Top asset types for SMBs in 2024

About the report

This article touches on only a few points from the report, providing strategic insights on digital marketing tactics and approaches for the year.

Will next year’s survey bring significant changes, or will things remain unchanged? It’s uncertain, but one thing is clear: the digital landscape is evolving rapidly, offering opportunities for early adopters to thrive in various channels despite competition.

All images in this report were provided by Intero Digital. You can download the full report here. 

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/smbs-digital-marketing-2024-437884

Google: Apple rejected Microsoft Bing deal over quality and advertising worries

Microsoft reportedly tried to sell Bing to Apple in 2018 – but failed.

The sale was unsuccessful because Apple had concerns about Bing’s search quality, advertising unit and monetization capabilities, according to a document in Google’s antitrust case against the U.S. Justice Department.

Google argues that the failed sale highlights that Bing lost out because it is an inferior search engine, not because Google has made the search market unfair for its competitors, per CNN.

Apple turns down Microsoft. Microsoft allegedly proposed either selling Bing to Apple or creating a Bing-joint venture together. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of services, explained why Apple said no to Microsoft in the filing:

  • “Microsoft search quality, their investment in search, everything was not significant at all. And so everything was lower. So the search quality itself wasn’t as good.”
  • “They weren’t investing at any level comparable to Google or to what Microsoft could invest in. And their advertising organization and how they monetize was not very good either.”

What Google is saying. Google claims that Microsoft’s failed attempt to sell Bing to Apple demonstrates that Bing is an inferior search engine. Google wrote in the filing:

  • “In each instance, Apple took a hard look at the relative quality of Bing versus Google and concluded that Google was the superior default choice for its Safari users. That is competition.”

Google also argues that Microsoft approached Apple multiple times – in 2009, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2020 – proposing to make Bing the default search engine in Apple’s Safari web browser. However, Apple consistently rejected the idea, citing concerns about the quality of Bing’s performance.

What Microsoft is saying. Microsoft denies its attempts to sell Bing to Apple were due to quality issues – on the contrary, the tech giant claims the sale was blocked by Google. Microsoft’s CEO of Advertising and Web Services, Mikhail Parakhin, said he offered Apple more than 100% of the revenue or gross profit to make Bing its default search engine – but the proposal was rejected because of the Apple’s deal with Google.

Speaking at the federal antitrust trial, Parakhin alleged this was despite Microsoft offering to pay Apple more than Google – which he claims was offering in the region of 60%. He said:

  • “We were just big enough to play but probably not big enough to win, if that makes sense.”

What the DOJ is saying. Google has a financial agreement in place with Apple to be the default search engine on its products at a cost of around $10 billion a year. In addition, Google pays Apple advertising revenue – which is one of the search engine’s biggest costs. The Justice Department asserted in its filing that Apple boss Cue testified:

  • “If Apple did not receive the massive payments it sought from Google, Apple would have developed its own search engine,” the Justice Department asserted in its filing.”

Google could pay Apple as much as $19 billion this fiscal year, according to an estimate from Bernstein analyst Toni Sacconaghi. The DOJ claims these substantial sums of money are why Apple turned down a potential joint venture with Microsoft – not because Bing is inferior to Google.

Why we care. The U.S. Justice Department is suing Google, claiming it uses unfair tactics to maintain its position as the top search engine globally. If Google can demonstrate its search engine’s superiority, it might succeed in the case. However, if it loses, Google could lose its automatic default search engine status on common Apple products, posing a potential threat to its dominance in the search market.

Market share statistics. The U.S. Justice Department claims Google owns a 90% market share in search. On the other hand, Bing has 3% of the global market share, according to StatCounter.

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Deep dive. Read our Google antitrust trial updates for everything you need to know.

Original source: https://searchengineland.com/google-micorosft-bing-sale-rejected-apple-quality-437914