When we launched The AI EDGE Newsletter in February 2024, our goal was simple: to provide insight and perspective on the rapidly evolving world of technology and artificial intelligence and its impact on broadcasters, especially at the station level.
At the time, AI was still largely a mystery and, for many, a source of concern. AI DJs were making headlines, AI-generated commercials were just emerging, and major platforms were releasing groundbreaking AI updates almost weekly. It felt like something new — and potentially disruptive — was always around the corner.
Now, 54 editions later, AI innovation continues at a strong pace. But the tone has shifted. Guardrails around AI usage are more clearly defined, and AI is no longer just a curiosity, it’s a tool being actively used across nearly every department in the building. The changes today are more incremental, less likely to knock you out of your chair — but no less important.
As Paul, Fred, and I have discussed how best to evolve this newsletter, one thing has become clear: the rapid growth of digital media revenue and consumption cannot be overstated. The latest financial results from public companies offer a quarterly reminder that the shift of ad dollars to digital is accelerating. As the saying goes, “first slowly, then all at once.” So we are evolving the focus of this newsletter to include digital revenue news and opportunities you can use to remain in alignment with where the industry is heading.
For almost a year, I’ve been consulting several broadcasters of all types — large and small market as well as public radio stations — on developing their digital revenue programs. We’ve discovered there is no one way to do it — every station has its own assets and structure — but the theme remains the same: stations that invest in growing their digital revenue are successful, and based on the data, there’s no end in sight.
So, in keeping with this newsletter’s original mission — to provide meaningful insight into how technology is reshaping our industry — I’ll be placing a greater focus on digital revenue moving forward. And of course, I’m happy to have a conversation with you about your station’s needs and see if we can’t help you build and grow your digital revenue program.
We’re excited about what’s next and hope you’ll continue with us on this journey.
AI Headlines from around the web
- Asking Chatbots for Short Answers Can Increase Hallucinations
Longer answers encourage truthier answers (with stats) - Meta’s Next-Generation AI Glasses Will Have Facial Recognition
Privacy concerns, but less “Hey You!” in conversations - Actors Licensing Their Likenesses to AI Are Shocked to See What They Are Endorsing
Always read the fine print - Jim Fagan, NBC’s 90’s NBA Voice Who Passed in 2017, Returns Next Season Via AI
The next iteration from the network that brought AI-Al Michaels to the Olympics
Digital Video Advertising Continues to Soar with SMBs
As access to video creative and CTV/OTT networks increases, the use of digital video continues to soar. The IAB reported last week that CTV/OTT video will be up 30% this year and social video will grow over 60% from 2023 spends. The “ability to link spend to outcomes has empowered small and mid-size businesses to get a piece of the CTV pie,” says IAB CEO David Cohen [details]
Good News For Audio: Engagement Rates Are Up
Deloitte’s recent analysis highlights that media companies are increasingly adopting audio content and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The integration of AI is enhancing content personalization and operational efficiency, while the resurgence of audio formats like podcasts and streaming services is capturing growing audience engagement. This strategic shift underscores the industry’s commitment to innovation and adaptation in response to changing consumer behaviors and technological advancements. [details]
Google Rolls Out AI-Max to Make SEM Campaign Management Easier
On Tuesday, Google announced upgraded functionality for search campaigns with AI-Max for Search, which will match dynamically-created ads with user intent, even beyond manually selected keywords. The system adds analysis of existing ads and creative assets to automatically generate optimized headlines, descriptions, and ad placements. It also introduces improved reporting on performance. Overall, Google claims the new system, which will begin its roll-out this month, streamlines campaign management, reducing manual effort. [details]
May 20 – Google I/O
June – Father’s Day and Graduation campaigns
June 9 – Apple’s WWDC
June 19 – New TikTok deadline for divestment
August – Back to School campaigns
September 17 – Meta Connect
October – Renewals / Annuals
Originally published by Jacobs Media
