YOUTUBE INTEGRATION
Instagram’s 90-minute video bet could soon take it into direct confrontation with YouTube
Instagram is testing videos of up to 90 minutes with select creators in the US and Brazil as it looks to expand beyond short-form content and compete with YouTube and OTT platforms for viewers and advertising budgets. The move could bring podcasts, comedy specials and episodic shows to the platform, with creators using Reels to attract viewers to longer videos. Instagram is also working on a TV version of Reels to tap into connected TV (CTV) audiences. No India launch timeline has been announced.
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL review: Google's most complete Pixel yet, but can it win over iPhone users?
Google Pixel 11 Pro XL is Google's most complete flagship yet, with a premium design, excellent display, reliable battery life and improved cameras. While its Tensor G6 processor trails Apple's latest iPhone in raw performance, its smooth software, seven years of updates and better video recording make it a compelling Android alternative. Priced at ₹1,34,999, it is particularly appealing to iPhone users considering a switch.
Amazon steps up creator investments as it looks to convert social media influence into sales
Between January and September, creator content influenced 42 million customers on Amazon, of whom 28 million made a purchase. A total of 133 million products were purchased through creators during the period, said Nidhi Thakkar, head of social commerce for emerging marketplaces at Amazon. Influenced customers grew 50% year-on-year, while purchasing customers increased 92%. The figures were recorded before the Diwali shopping season.
If you invested $1,000 in Google stock in 2006, here’s how much your Alphabet shares would be worth today
A $1,000 investment in Alphabet at the end of September 2006 would have grown to about $32,804 by October 22, 2026, with dividends reinvested. Here’s how Google stock outperformed the S&P 500 over two decades and what the company’s latest earnings reveal about its growth and AI spending.
VETO streams Pakistan tri-series in India, raising questions over scope of MIB advisory
VETO, a streaming platform, is currently broadcasting a tri-series involving Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka. The Indian Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued an advisory regarding Pakistani-origin media content due to national security concerns. While the advisory includes various Pakistani content categories, it does not explicitly mention sports broadcasts. VETO asserts that the advisory does not apply to the ongoing cricket tournament as it is international.
Instagram challenges Youtube with 90-minute videos: All you need to know
Instagram is testing a new long-form video format called 'Features' to allow content creators to upload 90-minute videos. This format is currently available to select users in the United States and Brazil. Instagram aims to integrate long-form content into its existing Reels ecosystem to attract more creators. The platform is exploring various options to help long-form creators earn revenue.
The experience of the Shanti Rasa or Bhaav key reason behind Hanuman Ansh’s success: Producer Namrata G Singh
The film Hanuman Ansh has grossed nearly Rs340 crore at the box office, which is unprecedented for its modest budget. Producer Namrata G Singh emphasizes the significance of preserving intellectual property in storytelling. The film, rooted in spirituality, explores the life of Neem Karoli Maharaj and his connections with devotees. It also aims to expand into various formats and languages to reach global audiences.
Calcutta HC bars publication, sharing of video on PM Modi, Gautam Adani till Jan 31
The Calcutta High Court has issued an injunction against a documentary involving Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Gautam Adani. This order prohibits publication, sharing, and re-uploading of the video until January 31 next year. Justice Aryak Dutt mandated social media platforms to remove access to the video and related content. The Adani Group argued that the video contains false and defamatory statements against them.
Smartphones need some new smart sell
India's smartphone sales are in a slump, mirroring a global decline. Consumers are increasingly opting to hold onto their devices longer, while premium brands like Apple and Samsung show more resilience than their mass-market competitors. The industry appears to have hit a technological plateau, with minimal advancements noted. This slowdown may pave the way for future innovations that provide more essential features for users.
‘Brands need to be loved by humans and read by agents’: BCG’s Lauren Wiener on AI’s impact on marketing
The growing influence of AI and LLMs on purchase decisions is significant across various consumer touchpoints. Brands are now required to optimize content for both human and AI consumption to compete effectively. Marketing leaders are rethinking traditional media-budget allocation strategies in response to these changes. Personalisation and an integrated approach to agentic marketing are emerging as critical priorities for brands moving forward.
US midterm elections 2026: New Hampshire voters face last-minute shake-up as Supreme Court blocks student IDs weeks before voters head to polls
The Supreme Court has officially ruled that student IDs will not be accepted for voting purposes in New Hampshire. This decision is in light of a law signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte, which disqualified student IDs as valid identification for voters. A federal judge had previously acknowledged student IDs as sufficient alongside other verification methods.
Apple iPhone Duo review: Five days with Apple's first foldable is it worth Rs 3 lakh?
Apple iPhone Duo review after five days of use examines whether Apple's first foldable smartphone justifies its starting price of Rs 2,99,900. The device impresses with its premium build, vibrant displays, smooth performance and excellent battery life, which can last up to two days with light usage. However, third-party app optimisation needs improvement, multitasking remains limited, and the absence of a dedicated telephoto camera is a drawback. While the iPhone Duo offers an enjoyable foldable experience, it is best suited to buyers who can comfortably afford its price and genuinely need a larger display.
Reality shows, cricket turn advertisers' safe bets
Established non-fiction shows such as Bigg Boss and Kaun Banega Crorepati have continued to attract advertisers despite the blackout. Bigg Boss has roped in 95 sponsors across its language editions, while KBC has secured 25 sponsors. Cricket is also drawing advertiser interest, with India matches providing an opportunity to reach large audiences in a second half of the year largely devoid of marquee events such as the IPL or ICC tournaments. The India-West Indies series has drawn a strong response from brands, while the India-New Zealand series is also expected to see strong traction.
JetSynthesys launches AI-powered creative platform JetKreate
JetSynthesys has introduced JetKreate, an AI-powered platform integrating scripting, visuals, audio, and video production. This platform was revealed at the CII Big Picture Summit 2026 in Mumbai and aims to streamline content creation. JetKreate caters to individual creators, marketers, brands, and agencies by allowing the development of various types of content. The platform offers free credits for new users alongside paid plans for enhanced features.
Inside Google's Gemini safety strategy: Protecting children, verifying age and tackling AI misinformation
To tackle rising child safety concerns linked with AI, Google is taking proactive steps as children engage with chatbots. The focus is on ensuring age-appropriate interactions, encouraging parental oversight, and promoting responsible AI use. The upcoming Gemini platform will feature age assurance technology to evaluate users' ages based on their behavior.
81% of Indian marketers prioritise reach, only 17% attention quality: Report
A recent report indicates that 81% of marketers in India prioritize reach in media planning. Despite this, only 17% consider attention quality as important for their decisions. Measurement of attention remains a significant challenge, with 92% of marketers highlighting the lack of standardization. The report emphasizes the need for attention metrics to complement reach in advertising strategies.
‘This government will fall’: Rahul Gandhi alleges ‘millions’ added to, deleted from voter rolls
Rahul Gandhi claimed that millions are impacted by irregularities in electoral rolls across several Indian states. He addressed concerns about the integrity of India's democratic process linked to the BJP-led government. During a speech, he accused the Election Commission of failing to cooperate with opposition leaders who raised concerns. Gandhi urged continued pressure on the government from opposition leaders to restore democratic values.
CEC row: 42 former Judges write an open letter and warn against attempts to undermine Election Commission
A group of 42 judges and retired officials criticized ongoing attacks on constitutional institutions in India. They expressed concerns over the Election Commission and judiciary being unjustly targeted. The letter appeals for defending public trust in democracy and urges evidence-based criticisms of institutions. It also rebukes attempts to discredit the electoral process and encourages transparency from constitutional bodies.
Paramount Skydance merger: Is David Ellison’s $110 billion hollywood gamble now about tech?
Paramount Skydance has completed a $110 billion merger with Warner Bros. Discovery to reshape Hollywood's landscape. The merger combines major studios and platforms under one roof, aiming for efficiency and technological advancements. Skydance plans to streamline operations while managing considerable debt and integrating two large companies. Executives emphasize the importance of technology and artificial intelligence in enhancing viewer experiences.
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