Tag: #streaming

Tesco Mobile Ireland Survey Reveals Digital Clutter, Streaming Regrets, and Pet Obsession

A new survey commissioned by Tesco Mobile Ireland has unveiled a nation grappling with digital clutter, streaming service regrets, yet a unified picture of mobile habits, with the majority of users relying on their devices for the same core activities: chatting, scrolling, and sharing. This proves that everyone does the same things with their phones, but with Tesco Mobile Ireland, customers can get the same coverage and reliability of a big network, but with the great value and service of Tesco.

The survey also reveals that while Irish consumers are savvy in managing their core digital needs, they often feel shortchanged in other areas of their lives.

More than 1 in 3 people (37%) admit to having more apps than they need on their mobile phones with a staggering majority (92%) admitting that they have apps on their phone that they never use. However, the focus remains on essential communication, with calls and messaging dominating usage, particularly among female consumers.

Unsurprisingly, messaging and social media apps came out on the top as the types of apps consumers use most frequently at 76% and 73% respectively with a significantly higher percentage of females (85%) using social media apps compared to males (65%). The data points to a broader trend: despite the endless variety of apps available, most consumers ultimately gravitate toward the same digital habits.

Streaming Subscriptions: More Regret Than Reward

Streaming services and subscriptions, however, emerged as a source of regret and dissatisfaction for many. 67% of consumers subscribe to more than one streaming service, yet only 31% use all their subscriptions each week. Additionally, over half (55%) have regretted subscribing to streaming services which points to consumers increasingly scrutinising the value of their digital subscriptions. This is also evident when it comes to mobile phone plans with 60% of consumers comparing mobile plans at least once a year to ensure they are getting the best deal.

“Our survey shows that Irish consumers are increasingly discerning, focusing on what truly matters in their digital lives. They want value, simplicity, and reliable connectivity, which is precisely what we offer.” said Sean Nolan, Director of Tesco Mobile Ireland.

Paws, Pics & Priorities: The Pet Obsession is Real

Elsewhere, the survey found that when it comes to consumers using their phones to capture everyday moments, more than a third (36%) of pet owners say that they use their mobile phone to take photos of their pets daily with over half (56%) of consumers admitting that they have 50 photos of their pets, and a select few (7%) have over 1,000! Even among parents, 62% say they take more pictures of their children, but 17% confess to prioritising snapping pictures of their pets instead.

The findings also reveal a significant level of dissatisfaction with the value received from gym memberships (50%), indicating a broader trend of consumers feeling shortchanged.

Sean Nolan added, “Consumers are clearly looking for value across all aspects of their lives. Tesco Mobile Ireland is committed to delivering that value, ensuring our customers get the most out of their mobile experience. With the added benefits of Clubcard vouchers and exclusive Clubcard Prices, our customers can enjoy even more rewards just for staying connected.”

Tesco Mobile remains the only mobile operator in Ireland to have guaranteed no price increases for its customers consistently for the last four years.

With nearly 500,000 customers enjoying Tesco Mobile’s award-winning customer service and 99% population coverage powered by the Three network, there’s never been a better time to switch and lock in great value. Whether you’re already with Tesco Mobile or considering making the move before another provider hikes your bill, now’s the time to take advantage of Ireland’s best mobile commitment.

Fancy a laugh? Check out the latest ad from Tesco Mobile Ireland!: https://youtu.be/e1DpI74yelU

Vodafone crowned Best Mobile Internet and 5G Provider in Ireland

<a href=”https://n.vodafone.ie/en.html”>Vodafone Ireland</a> has been awarded Best Mobile Internet Performance 2024, for a third year in a row, and Best 5G Provider in Ireland for 2024 at this year’s nPerf Awards. This recognition follows Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network transitioning customers to a faster, more efficient 4G and 5G network in 2024.

Short for network performance, nPerf is a trusted partner for both fixed and mobile operators, providing comprehensive network testing solutions and analysis. The results for 2024 were based on thousand of actual tests performed by users in real conditions using the nPerf application available on Android and iOS. nPerf points are calculated across five factors – Download (DL) Speed, Upload (UP) Speed, Latency (delay), Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming.

Vodafone Ireland maintained its leading position in Ireland’s mobile market, achieving the highest score of 108,153 nPoints, demonstrating its promise of a premium network making every connection count for its customers. The operator excelled in multiple categories and was the best-performing provider across four – Upload Speed, Latency, Web Browsing, and YouTube Streaming – showcasing reliable performance in the 5G sector.

2024 saw Vodafone becoming the first mobile network provider in Ireland to switch off its 3G network. This upgrade to a more sustainable, efficient and reliable 4G and 5G network offers all Vodafone Ireland customers an enhanced experience with improved connection across the country. Vodafone’s 5G is now available across Ireland with 78% population coverage.

Over the past three years, Vodafone has invested over €300 million into its network nationwide, with plans to invest an additional half a billion euros over the next four years. This investment will further enhance call and text reliability, provide superfast 4G and 5G services, and expand high-definition voice coverage for Vodafone customers.

Accepting the award, <b>Sheila Kavanagh, Network Director at Vodafone Ireland</b>, commented:

<i>“Every day, we strive to offer our customers the best, most reliable mobile network experience and this award is a testament to our teams across Ireland who work to deliver on this promise day in and day out.</i>

<i>“This award recognises our ability to respond to the ever-evolving needs of our customers, who increased their data usage by 20% last year alone and still experienced the same premium service they have come to expect from Vodafone.”</i>

<i>“We remain focused on supporting businesses across Ireland, with 60% of Irish businesses entrusting their mobile business accounts to Vodafone. We understand the critical role that robust and reliable connectivity plays in today’s fast-paced business environment, and we are dedicated to maintaining our position as the leading provider of mobile internet services. We look forward to bringing even more cutting-edge solutions to our customers, enhancing their digital experiences and supporting their connectivity, growth and success.” </i>

Recognising <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=vodafone”>Vodafone’s</a&gt; continued success in 2024,<b> Sébastien de Rosbo, Managing Director nPerf</b>, stated, “The year 2024 has seen Vodafone continue its strong performance in the Irish mobile market, particularly in the 5G space, despite a slight decrease in overall testing volume.”

Almost half of people in Ireland use their smartphones during meals

Almost half of people in Ireland (47%) use their smartphones during meals and 70% say they spend too much time on their devices, a new Deloitte survey has found.

The survey of 1,000 people in Ireland was carried out as part of Deloitte’s Digital Consumer Trends report.

It shows that three-quarters of adults (74%) tend to use their mobile phones as soon as they wake up while 54% say they tend to stay awake later than planned because of their devices. Over one third (34%) check their phone at least 50 times a day and 15% do so more than 100 times.

Young people are also more likely to stay up later than planned due to phone use with 73% of those aged between 18-24 and 60% of those aged 25-34 years admitting it delays their bedtime. More women (74%) than men (66%) say they spend too much time on their smartphones while adults aged 18 to 44 express the most concern.

Nearly everyone in Ireland, 95%, now owns a smartphone, and almost half of those surveyed (47%) use their smartphone or smartwatch to pay for goods and services in-store through digital wallets, up from 36% in 2023.

The use of wearable devices (55%) has declined from 67% in 2023 while the ownership or use of games consoles is down from 40% to 37%, most likely due to the lack of new console releases in 2024. Just 7% of people own or have access to a VR headset.

42% of those surveyed own a Samsung, the most popular mobile phone brand, up from 38% in 2023, while 38% own an Apple phone.

Android is the most popular phone type in every age group with the exception of 18-24 where 64% own Apple handsets and 35% own Android. Almost three-quarters of those aged 65-75 (74%), 69% of those aged 45-54 and 66% of those aged 35-44 use Android phones.

The survey found the average respondent has access to 2.3 subscription services. 74% have access to a video streaming service and Netflix is the lead service by a significant margin despite a drop in penetration from 65% of respondents in 2021 to 59%.

Just 26% now say they share a video streaming service with someone from outside their household, down from 37% in 2023. This comes amid a clampdown on password sharing by Netflix, which introduced new rules and now effectively only allow users to regularly stream from one main location.

Younger subscribers are more likely to share accounts with people outside their households with 39% of those aged 18-24 doing so and 44% of those aged 25-34.

27% of those surveyed cancelled a video streaming subscription in the last 12 months. Unsurprisingly cost was the main reason for doing so jumping from 24% to 31%, followed by lack of usage at 29%, down 4 percentage points on 2023.

Fake news on the rise

 71% of respondents to the survey said they’d been exposed to online information designed to deliberately mislead. A total of 53% said they had more regularly found material online that was subsequently proven to be fake. This is up from 46% in 2023.

Television remains the most popular choice for news consumption in Ireland with more than half the population (57%) preferring it for updates. This trend is particularly strong among older demographics with 83% of those aged 65-75 choosing TV over other mediums.

The most popular method of staying up to date for the 18-24 (67%) and 25-34 (57%) age group is social media, which is cited by just 24% of the 55-64 and 11% of 65-75 age groups.

Overall, 40% say they like to get their news from radio, 39% use news websites or apps, and 38% use social media. Only 14% cite print as a preferred source.

Interestingly, more than half (58%) of 18–34-year-olds have made a purchase through social media in the last year. 22% of 18–24-year-olds and 29% of 25-34 year olds have bought something through a brand advert or a sponsored post.

John Kehoe, partner, Audit & Assurance, Deloitte Ireland said: “Our digital consumer trends survey shows that smartphones have become the most essential device, surpassing laptops (81%) and tablets (61%) in accessibility and consistent use across all ages. They are replacing physical wallets and remain the preferred tool for banking, shopping, browsing and gaming. However, recent innovations have been incremental rather than groundbreaking. Generative AI could change this by making smartphones more personalised and intuitive. Despite their benefits, concerns about excessive use persist – 47% use phones during meals, and many delay sleep to stay online. As smartphones shape daily life, it’s important to balance convenience with mindful usage.”

Commenting on the rise of fake news revealed in the report, Lorraine Griffin, partner and Chair of Deloitte Ireland, Tax & Legal, said:

“Our research highlights the increasing exposure to misinformation, particularly online. As news consumption shifts towards social media, and almost three in four respondents in our survey encountering intentionally misleading content, the need for media literacy and critical thinking has never been greater. Education remains key in empowering individuals to navigate digital spaces responsibly, ensuring access to information is accompanied with the skills to assess its accuracy.”

What Are the Advantages of a 4K Smart TV?

Should you consider a TV update, you know about “4K Smart TV.” Though that seems impressive, what mainly justifies your expenditure? This essay rationally separates the advantages to assist in deciding the best course of action for your home.

Perfect Image Quality Clear Crystal

Most people referring to 4K TVs talk about their ultra-high-density resolution. These 3840 x 2160 pixel screens have four times the detail of a regular full HD TV. Returning to regular HD is challenging once you have seen the difference, since this upgrade greatly improves the viewing experience.

The end effect is… a more vivid, realistic image. Colors flash, and minute elements are more clear. On larger screens, where conventional resolutions could seem grainy, this is especially obvious. Imagine viewing a nature documentary in which every strand of fur on a lion or ripple on the surface of the water is clearly seen. Whether your viewing is of action-packed films or wildlife documentaries, the clarity is rather amazing.

Upscaling technology improves even older shows and DVDs on these TVs. On a 4K screen, this function sharpens and polishes lower-resolution content, significantly enhancing its appearance. When you revisit your favorite 90s sitcom, for example, you will find better lines and a cleaner presentation, revitalizing your beloved classics.

Improved Hue and Contrast

Many 4K TVs come with other technologies, including HDR (High Dynamic Range). That relates to you as well. Simply said, your viewing experience may be much enhanced by your screen’s more natural and lifelike colors.

Enhanced Color Spectrum and Contrast

Aside from a larger spectrum of colors, HDR improves contrast between light and dark areas. This creates terrific vistas even as it hides data in the shadows. Imagine seeing a scene set in a darkly lit cave; you could now see minute elements like the feel of pebbles or glints of light bouncing off moist surfaces. While sunset is vibrant and warm, with a mix of flaming colors and subdued purples that feel more genuine, dark scenes offer depth and richness.

Practical Benefits Across Content

This function goes beyond simple cinematic color accuracy. Streaming shows, gaming, and browsing your holiday pictures on a large screen also find great use. HDR gives movies and TV shows a better visual narrative, which makes the action feel like you are part of it.

Flawless Connectivity and Streaming

A “smart” TV beats superior pictures. Its capacity to run programs and link to the internet is clever. Direct access to well-known streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime comes directly from your television via a 4K Smart TV.

Optimization for Streaming Services

Usually, these sources have a lot of 4K video available, therefore you are optimizing your screen. Specifically meant to shine on 4K televisions, shows like Stranger Things or The Mandalorian have detailed visual effects that become more immersive. Here none of any twisted cables or devices are required. Many 4K Smart TVs also include voice commands, simplifying channel switching, setting adjustment, or program search. “Play the latest episode of The Crown” will get you going without requiring a remote.

Seamless Content Sharing

Smart TVs also usually include built-in capability to cast material from your tablet or smartphone. This function effortlessly enables you to share images, movies, or even presentations on the big screen. It makes presenting a PowerPoint of your trip experiences simpler and more enjoyable for organizing a party.

Experience Playing an Immersion Game

Most gamers consider a 4K Smart TV to be practically necessary. Modern game consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 give unmatched images when matched with these TVs, meant to maximize 4K quality.

Superior Graphics and Features

Better images, usually better performance, and smoother gameplay follow from this. On a 4K display, games like Elden Ring or Horizon Forbidden West highlight wonderfully realistic landscapes, rich character designs, and finely realized textures. Faster refresh rates on some TVs also help to cut lag and increase the enjoyment of fast-paced games, such as first-person shooters or racing titles, where every millisecond matters.

Advanced Gaming Capabilities

Furthermore, advanced gaming capabilities such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) are supported by 4 K Smart TVs. These characteristics guarantee seamless frame transitions and lower input delay, therefore providing competitive game participants with an advantage. Whether you’re exploring open-world adventures or facing online rivals, the immersive gaming experience on a 4K Smart TV is unparalleled.

Slick Design and Space Conservation

The long-gone era of big TVs is behind us. Most 4K Smart TVs are little, beautiful, lightweight machines. They hardly occupy too much space and fit rather beautifully in contemporary houses. Indeed, their elegant designs sometimes take the right stage in living areas.

Compact and Stylish Design

Some models even provide practically endless wall-mounting choices or designs. They are ideal for minimalist homes, where little is more. Some models’ almost bezel-less designs produce a “picture-on—wall” impression that effortlessly fits your home décor. These TVs offer a big-screen experience without the bulk for compact houses or flats where space is a luxury.

Subtle Accessories

Even the accompanying stands and accessories are made to be understated so the TV blends naturally into your environment. This combination of utility and beauty transforms an ugly TV into a showcase item, enhancing the look of your living space.

Longevity and Energy Consumption

4K Smart TVs not only appear better but also are more efficient. LED and OLED technologies help them to use less energy than previous versions. This is a major benefit for environmentally concerned consumers trying to lower their energy footprint.

Durability and Cost Efficiency

This makes homeowners striving to cut their energy consumption a better option. A 4K Smart TV is a reasonably priced investment since, over time, the energy savings can mount up. Furthermore, their better build points to their intended survival, therefore you won’t have to replace your TV very soon. Extended warranties, which many companies now provide, help consumers even more to be confident of their durability.

Availability of Smart Characteristics

Watching movies or shows on a 4K Smart TV provides more than entertainment. You might check the weather, search the internet, or even link your smart house appliances. Some types work fairly neatly with devices like Alexa or Google Assistant.

Integration with Smart Homes

Would you like to lower the thermostat or cut the lights without leaving your sofa? Ask your TV just like you would. Done correctly, it is convenient. Modern smart TVs’ advanced artificial intelligence capabilities also allow them to suggest material depending on your viewing behavior, therefore assuring you never run out of things to see.

Personalized User Experience

These TVs also allow multi-user profiles, enabling everyone in the family to have a customized experience. Everyone has fast access to their preferred material, from children’s cartoons to sports highlights.

It really Excellent Value for the Money

Four years ago, 4K Smart TVs were considered a luxury. These days, they are far more reasonably priced. Reduced pricing brought about by brand competitiveness has increased the audience who can use them.

Affordable and Worthwhile

Given their features and lifetime, you are most definitely getting great value. Even mid-range models today show exceptional performance and include features traditionally only in pricier versions. These TVs’ low cost makes them available to a larger spectrum of buyers, therefore assuring that more people may take advantage of 4K technology.

Long-term Value

Furthermore, considering their innovative features, durability, and energy economy helps one to clearly see the long-term value of a 4K Smart TV. Fantastic quality is not something you must go broke for; this is enjoyment made available.

Flexibility for All Your Needs

A 4K Smart TV finds applications elsewhere other than essential TV viewing. Perfect family movie evenings, fierce game sessions, or online meetings would all fit here.

Multipurpose Usability

Screen mirroring lets you directly cast movies, presentations, and pictures from your laptop or smartphone. This adaptability makes it ideal for any family member and hence a great addition to any house. Professionals working from home, for example, might use the TV as a second screen for presentations or video calls, while children might enjoy their educational apps on a big display.

Fitness and Beyond

Fitness aficionados who can stream yoga lessons or workout videos and follow along on a large screen also fit under this versatility. This function converts your living room into a multifarious area fit for your way of life.

Wall Mounting a 4K TV

Wall mounting a 4K TV is an excellent way to enhance your viewing experience and maximize space. Here are some essential considerations for a successful installation:

  • Choose the Right Mount: Ensure the wall mount is compatible with your TV’s size and weight. Look for VESA compliance, as this standard ensures a secure fit.
  • Select the Best Wall Location: Pick a wall that minimizes glare and provides an optimal viewing angle. Measure the height to ensure the screen aligns with your eye level when seated.
  • Cable Management: Use cable covers or in-wall solutions to keep cords organized and hidden. This not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures safety.
  • Proper Tools and Safety: Gather necessary tools like a drill, level, and stud finder. Mounting the TV onto studs provides secure support. If unsure, consider hiring a professional installer.
  • Accessibility: Ensure the mounted TV is accessible for connections and adjustments. Swivel or tilting mounts provide flexibility for different viewing positions.

Wall mounting your 4K TV transforms your living space into a sleek, modern entertainment hub while improving safety by keeping the screen out of reach of children or pets.

Final Thoughts

Getting a 4K Smart TV has many advantages, from amazing visuals to clever tools that streamline your life. Beautiful, flexible, and well-built, they are meant to provide tech aficionados as well as entertainment junkies an immersive experience.

A 4K Smart TV delivers great value whether you purchase your first flat-screen or upgrade from an older model. It goes beyond just following trends here. It’s about increasing your appreciation of the chosen games, movies, and more. Investing in a 4K Smart TV is never a better time, given its sophisticated features and reasonable price.

The Latest Advances in OTT Technology for Advertisers

The world of advertising has experienced a seismic shift with the rise of over-the-top (OTT) platforms. As more viewers migrate away from traditional cable TV to streaming services, advertisers are increasingly turning to OTT technology to engage consumers in new and innovative ways. In this article, we explore the latest advances in OTT technology that are reshaping digital marketing and offering advertisers new opportunities to enhance campaign performance.

Understanding OTT Advertising

OTT (Over-The-Top) advertising refers to ads that are delivered through internet-connected devices rather than traditional cable or satellite television. OTT platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube are becoming dominant forces in the media industry, providing advertisers with a unique avenue to reach targeted audiences across multiple devices.

OTT advertising allows advertisers to deliver personalized, data-driven ads to consumers watching their favorite shows or movies, creating a more engaging and less disruptive experience than traditional TV ads. As OTT consumption continues to grow, leveraging OTT technology for advertising is becoming increasingly important for businesses looking to remain competitive in a digital-first world.

The Shift from Traditional TV to OTT

Traditional TV advertising has long been a cornerstone of the advertising industry. However, in recent years, there has been a clear shift toward OTT platforms as viewers increasingly cut the cord and opt for streaming services. According to recent studies, over 50% of U.S. households have adopted some form of connected TV, making it an essential platform for advertisers.

This migration presents both challenges and opportunities for advertisers. The challenge lies in navigating the fragmented landscape of OTT platforms and devices, while the opportunity is in leveraging the power of digital tools like data analytics and programmatic advertising to reach more precise audiences.

Latest Developments in OTT Technology

1. Advanced Targeting Capabilities

One of the most significant advances in OTT technology is the ability to target specific audiences with high precision. Thanks to the vast amounts of data available through digital streaming services, advertisers can now reach their target demographic more effectively than ever before.

Modern OTT platforms offer advanced targeting options that allow advertisers to target users based on:

  • Demographics: Age, gender, income level, etc.
  • Location: Geographic targeting to local, regional, or national audiences.
  • Viewing Habits: Based on the type of content viewers consume (e.g., sports, drama, comedy).
  • Device Type: Whether viewers are watching on smart TVs, mobile devices, or desktops.

By using this rich data, advertisers can deliver more relevant, personalized ads, improving both engagement rates and ROI.

2. Programmatic Advertising in OTT

Programmatic advertising has become a game-changer for OTT advertising. This automated buying and selling of digital ad space allows advertisers to optimize their campaigns in real-time, targeting the right viewers at the right time with minimal manual intervention.

With programmatic advertising, advertisers can leverage:

  • Real-Time Bidding (RTB): This feature allows advertisers to bid on ad inventory in real-time, ensuring they pay the optimal price for ad placements.
  • Data-Driven Optimization: Ads can be optimized based on viewer behavior, maximizing effectiveness and return on investment.
  • Cross-Platform Integration: Programmatic ads can be served across various devices, ensuring consistent messaging regardless of the viewer’s screen.

This level of automation and data-driven optimization helps advertisers achieve more efficient campaigns and reduces the complexity of managing multiple ad placements.

3. Connected TV Advertising

Connected TV (CTV) is one of the most significant trends in the OTT space. CTV refers to any television set that is connected to the internet, including smart TVs and gaming consoles. Advertisers are increasingly turning to CTV as a way to combine the targeting capabilities of digital with the expansive reach of traditional TV.

The key benefits of CTV advertising include:

  • Broad Reach with Precision: CTV allows advertisers to reach a mass audience, but with the ability to target viewers based on data insights.
  • Engaging Ad Formats: CTV ads offer more engaging formats compared to traditional TV, such as interactive ads that allow viewers to take immediate action.
  • Seamless Integration: CTV ads integrate well into the streaming experience, making them less intrusive and more likely to be viewed in their entirety.

CTV offers an opportunity for advertisers to leverage the power of both TV and digital, allowing for a more integrated and effective advertising strategy.

4. Interactive and Shoppable Ads

With the increasing demand for more interactive and engaging ad experiences, OTT platforms are introducing new formats that go beyond passive viewing. Interactive and shoppable ads are gaining popularity as they allow viewers to engage with the content directly.

  • Interactive Ads: These allow viewers to interact with ads by choosing their preferred options, watching additional content, or even participating in polls or quizzes. These ads lead to higher viewer engagement and brand recall.
  • Shoppable Ads: Shoppable ads enable viewers to purchase products directly from the ad itself, providing a seamless transition from viewing to buying.

By incorporating these interactive features into OTT ads, advertisers can create more immersive and actionable experiences, driving higher conversion rates and improving campaign performance.

5. Advanced Analytics and Attribution Models

As the OTT advertising space matures, the importance of advanced analytics and attribution models has become more evident. Advertisers now have access to sophisticated tools that provide insights into how ads are performing across various platforms and devices.

  • Cross-Device Tracking: With OTT technology, advertisers can track users across multiple devices, providing a more holistic view of their behavior and interactions with ads.
  • Attribution Models: New attribution models allow advertisers to understand which touchpoints along the customer journey contributed most to conversions, helping them optimize future campaigns.
  • Real-Time Analytics: Access to real-time data enables advertisers to adjust their campaigns on the fly, making improvements to targeting, messaging, and ad spend allocation.

These advancements in analytics empower advertisers to make data-driven decisions and ensure that their OTT campaigns deliver maximum ROI.

6. Privacy and Data Protection

As the digital landscape evolves, so too do concerns around privacy and data protection. OTT platforms are investing heavily in securing user data and complying with regulations like the GDPR and CCPA. Advertisers must also stay ahead of these regulations to ensure their campaigns are compliant and transparent.

  • Data Security: Advanced encryption methods are being implemented to protect user data from breaches.
  • User Consent: OTT platforms are adopting clear consent mechanisms, allowing users to control the types of data they share.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Advertisers must navigate increasingly stringent privacy laws to ensure their campaigns adhere to legal standards while still delivering personalized ads.

As privacy concerns continue to grow, advertisers must find ways to balance personalized targeting with consumer privacy rights, ensuring they maintain trust and comply with regulations.

The Future of OTT Advertising

The future of OTT advertising looks promising, with continuous innovations in technology creating new opportunities for advertisers. From AI-driven targeting to enhanced programmatic capabilities, the potential for highly effective, data-driven advertising is greater than ever. However, as the OTT space becomes more competitive, advertisers will need to adapt quickly to stay ahead of the curve and leverage the latest tools to connect with their audiences.

Key Takeaways

  • OTT Technology is revolutionizing the advertising landscape by offering advertisers more precise targeting, better campaign optimization, and improved ROI.
  • Programmatic Advertising enables real-time bidding and data-driven optimization, streamlining the ad-buying process.
  • Connected TV Advertising combines the reach of traditional TV with the precision of digital, allowing advertisers to deliver more relevant, engaging ads.
  • Interactive and Shoppable Ads offer more immersive experiences, driving higher engagement and conversion rates.
  • Advanced Analytics and Attribution Models enable advertisers to optimize campaigns with real-time insights and data-driven decisions.
  • Privacy and Data Protection are crucial considerations as advertisers navigate the growing complexities of user data management and regulatory compliance.

Conclusion

OTT tech continues to reshape the advertising landscape, offering new and innovative ways for advertisers to reach and engage with consumers. As the industry evolves, staying up-to-date with the latest advancements will be key to maximizing the impact of your advertising campaigns. By leveraging the power of OTT, connected TV, and programmatic advertising, businesses can drive more effective, targeted, and engaging campaigns, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.

Edifier Announces M60 Compact Multimedia Desktop 2.0 Speakers

Designed for High- Resolution audio, delivering impressive power output and perfectly suited for any desktop set-up.

With a 3-inch full-range driver and an efficient bass reflex port, the M60 delivers rich, immersive audio for all your multimedia needs.

Stream high resolution audio with the built-in Bluetooth V5.3 audio receiver. It supports the LDAC codec, offering a maximum transmission bitrate of 990 kbps. Stream high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz from Android devices running version 8.0 or later.

Measuring 100 mm (W) x 168 mm (H) x 147mm (D) the M60 fits perfectly on any desk or shelf.

Edifier International, the award-winning audio electronics designer announces the M60 Hi-Res Multimedia Speakers with Bluetooth. The Edifier M60 multimedia speaker system enhances your desktop audio with its compact size and powerful performance, making it ideal for streaming music, watching videos, or gaming. With a focus on delivering crystal-clear sound and user-friendly operation, the sleek design seamlessly fits into any workspace, elevating your everyday audio experience.

Compact Design/Powerful Output

Offering a stylish and compact design the Edifier M60 enhances workspace aesthetics while providing exceptional sound quality. Featuring hand-crafted wooden cabinets with a 1″ silk dome tweeter and a 3″ long-throw aluminium mid-low driver driven by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier from Texas Instruments, the M60 produces 66W RMS for a powerful and clear audio performance.

Wireless Streaming

Supporting wireless streaming through Bluetooth V5.3 and LDAC codec, The M60 enables high-resolution audio transmission up to 24-bit/96kHz at 990 kbps for Android devices running version 8.0 or later. 

Modern Aesthetic Meets Functionality

The Edifier M60 is designed for versatile audio enhancement across various media, including music, podcasts, movies, and gaming. Users can switch effortlessly between two audio sources—USB for PC or an analog connection—without the hassle of constantly plugging and unplugging cables. The M60 features a user-friendly top-mounted touch panel that automatically lights up when your hand approaches, enabling easy control via simple touch and swipe gestures,

Speaker Stands Included

The M60 includes a pair of exclusive aluminium speaker stands which effectively minimize sound colorations caused by reflections from the desktop surface. The stands are designed with a 15-degree angle, ensuring the sound is directed precisely at ear-level when placed on a desktop.

EDIFIER ConneX App

Download the EDIFIER ConneX mobile app to unlock a suite of enhanced features for your speaker, including playback control, customization of sound effects, settings for the touch panel backlight, and access to the user manual along with various other configurations.

See our Edifier reviews

Price & Availability:

The Edifier M60 is available at £159.99 from Amazon and K & B Audio – https://www.kbaudio.co.uk/products/edifier-m60-multimedia-speaker?srsltid=AfmBOornYUSR1muVn3a2tPu3CHG7_2iV3CIblyAsIVTfuN9DNoHnu10c

Dua Lipa and Coldplay’s Glastonbury 2024 performances to be livestreamed globally on BBC.com

For the first time, the BBC will livestream headline Glastonbury performances to a global audience, with Dua Lipa and Coldplay’s 2024 Pyramid Stage sets available to view on the recently relaunched BBC.com. 

Music fans around the world can tune into the stream, which is produced by BBC Studios, to watch Dua Lipa’s headline performance on Friday 28th June from 11pm-12.45am CEST and Coldplay’s headline set on Saturday 29th June from 10.45pm-12.45am CEST, both at BBC.com/pages/Glastonbury-live. Fans can also follow along with festival highlights, updates and analysis on BBC.com throughout the weekend. 

Tara Maitra, Chief Commercial Officer at BBC Studios says: “The Glastonbury Festival is an icon of British culture, and this livestream will give fans around the globe a front row seat to headline performances like never before. This is just the latest example of our focus on bringing more cultural-defining moments like Glastonbury to fans on our platforms outside the U.K. so users can experience the best of British culture wherever they may be.”  

Lorna Clarke, BBC Director of Music says: “At the BBC, we bring Glastonbury to you, and we’re incredibly proud of our coverage. It enables millions of people to access the magic of Emily and Michael Eavis’ festival each year. The global streams of Dua Lipa and Coldplay’s performances are another exciting addition to our offer, allowing us not only to unite music fans across the country, but across the world with the opportunity to experience these world class performances as they happen.” 

Seven-time BRIT and three-time GRAMMY Award winner Dua Lipa is making her first ever appearance on the famous Pyramid Stage, while seven-time GRAMMY Award winner Coldplay returns to headline Glastonbury for the fifth time, and for the first time since 2016. 

The BBC has been bringing Glastonbury Festival to UK audiences since 1997 and in 2024, returns with extensive coverage of the festival – including Pyramid Stage, headline performances from Dua Lipa, Coldplay and SZA – across its platforms. There will be over 90 hours of live performances from the five main stages on BBC iPlayer, 90 hours of radio programmes broadcast live from Worthy Farm, extensive coverage on TV and much more to discover on BBC Sounds.

More information about the BBC’s 2024 UK broadcast – a six-week long celebration of Glastonbury – is available here. 

Lenbrook Media Group Partners with HDtracks to Create Streaming Service for Music Enthusiasts and Audiophiles

Lenbrook Media Group, specialists in high resolution audio technology, and HDtracks, the pioneering service for audiophile quality music downloads, have announced a partnership to develop a streaming service aimed squarely at discerning music fans. Among a set of unique features, the service will offer consumers choice in formats and will be the first subscription service using a novel application of the AIRIA by MQA Labs codec.

“We have wanted to launch an HDtracks streaming service for some time. In Lenbrook we have a partner with global reach to help us launch a service ensuring quality and consumer choice,“ says HDtracks co-founder David Chesky, who has been a leader in high resolution audio alongside his brother Norman. “Fans will get to choose their format – either PCM/FLAC or MQA – in a service that will ensure high resolution audio streaming whether you are in your home or on-the-go.”

The HDtracks service will be the first to use Lenbrook’s AIRIA by MQA Labs, a transparent delivery codec equally suited for streaming from the cloud or wirelessly from a device to headphones. Designed for low-latency wireless communications by the inventors of lossless compression, it brings the benefits of a format-agnostic, scalable codec with an unmatched combination of audio quality, reliability, and data-efficiency.

“Our industry has been built by providing discerning music enthusiasts with choices while using innovation to advance digital music delivery,” explains Lenbrook’s Chief Strategy Officer, John Banks. “As audiophiles ourselves, it’s an exciting prospect to bring a service to life for the millions of global audiophiles that care so passionately about the quality of the music they listen to.”

The service will be available across platforms. In addition to its own applications for mobile, the service will find its way into many of the world’s leading high-end audio ecosystems, apps, and brands, that count on service providers for their content.

Mike Jbara, VP and GM of Lenbrook Media Group adds, “Norman and David are the perfect partners for Lenbrook. Their experience and understanding of the high-end audio fan is unique and their history with quality and innovation speaks for itself. We are ready to embark on this journey with them and think music fans are going to love it.”

Twitch Has Shut Down Its Streaming Platform in South Korea

In a surprising turn of events, Twitch, the globally renowned live-streaming platform, bid farewell to South Korea in December, leaving its community of streamers and viewers in the region in a state of uncertainty. The decision to shutter its operations in the country was driven by the formidable challenges posed by high-performance costs, signaling a significant shift in the dynamics of South Korean live-streaming market. 

Twitch’s Departure: A Loss for South Korean Streamers

For years, Twitch has been a cornerstone of the South Korean live-streaming scene, providing a platform for content creators to showcase their talents and engage with audiences in real-time. However, with the announcement of its departure, streamers and viewers alike were left grappling with the implications of losing access to the platform’s extensive array of features and community-driven culture.

Impact on the South Korean Live Streaming Landscape

Twitch’s exit from South Korea created a void in the live streaming market, prompting a reevaluation of the platforms available to both creators and consumers. With Twitch out of the picture, alternative platforms such as AfreecaTV and CHZZK quickly stepped in to fill the gap, vying for dominance in a landscape ripe for disruption.

AfreecaTV and CHZZK: Rising Stars in South Korea

AfreecaTV, a longstanding player in the South Korean live-streaming scene, emerged as a frontrunner following Twitch’s departure. With 98 million hours watched in the first quarter of the year, AfreecaTV reaffirmed its position as a leading platform for content creators and viewers alike. Additionally, CHZZK, backed by Naver, made significant strides, securing 59 million hours watched during the same period, cementing its status as a formidable competitor in the market.

The Emergence of Global Platforms: AfreecaTV’s SOOP and CHZZK’s Expansion

In response to the shifting landscape, both AfreecaTV and CHZZK announced plans to expand their reach beyond South Korea. AfreecaTV unveiled its plans to launch the beta version of SOOP, its global streaming service, in the first half of 2024, signalling its intent to compete on a global scale. Similarly, CHZZK, with Naver at its helm, initiated a beta rollout of its platform, setting the stage for a worldwide expansion in the near future.

South Korean Twitch Users Seek To Preserve Stream Memories

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Twitch’s departure, South Korean users flocked to third-party software tools to download their favorite streamer’s content. Clipsey is one of the most popular software tools used, as it allows users to download a streamer’s clips for offline viewing. It provides South Korean users with a means to preserve cherished memories even as they bid farewell to Twitch.

Looking Ahead: The Future of South Korean Live Streaming

As the dust settles on Twitch’s departure, the South Korean live-streaming market finds itself at a crossroads, poised for transformation and innovation. With platforms like AfreecaTV and CHZZK leading the charge, the landscape is ripe with opportunities for both creators and viewers to explore new avenues of content creation and consumption. As the industry continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the spirit of live streaming in South Korea will endure, fueled by the passion and creativity of its vibrant community.