The 2026 World Cup was more than just a tournament; it was a watershed moment in digital history. As the world’s attention turned toward the host nations, the Meta ecosystem—spanning WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Threads—transformed into the heartbeat of the global football conversation. From record-shattering messaging traffic to a seismic shift in how fans interact […]
TikTok Bolsters Creator Protection: New AI Likeness Detection Tool Targets Deepfake Impersonation
In an era where generative artificial intelligence has made the creation of hyper-realistic digital avatars easier than ever, the boundaries of identity have become increasingly blurred. Recognizing the growing threat of unauthorized digital mimicry, TikTok has begun testing a robust, opt-in "Likeness Detection" tool designed to empower creators to combat AI-generated deepfakes that hijack their […]
One Nation, Infinite Celebrations: How YouTube Curated America’s 250th Birthday
July 17, 2026 — As the United States marked its semiquincentennial—a historic 250th birthday—the digital landscape became the true town square for the celebration. For the past six months, YouTube transformed into a multifaceted stage for national reflection, bridging the gap between historical education, scientific innovation, and the vibrant, lived experiences of millions of Americans. […]
Netflix says there is no future for theatrical releases in its streaming universe
Netflix may be willing to send Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Narnia movie into theaters, but if anyone in Hollywood was hoping that decision signaled a broader change of heart, the company just slammed that door shut. In a candid interview with The New York Times, Netflix film chairman Dan Lin made it clear that the streamer’s […]
Submissions are Open for 2026 ADWEEK Experiential Awards
Cannes Lions is where the biggest ideas take center stage. Join ADWEEK for must-see conversations, top industry leaders, and the moments everyone will be talking about. Submissions are now open for the 2026 ADWEEK Experiential Awards. Now in its 8th year, the Experiential Awards honor the bold ideas driving the future of experiential marketing. From […]
Beyond Instagram: Introducing the next generation of social apps
For years, our social media experiences have been dominated by Big Tech players like Meta (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp), Google (YouTube), Snapchat, TikTok, and X. But a growing number of startups are taking aim at these giants by building new, often smaller and more personal social networking experiences to connect people with friends, interests, and tighter-knit […]
Three ways creators use YouTube tools to build full-time careers
Three creators share how features like Channel Memberships, YouTube Shopping, and Shorts helped them take “the leap” and scale their brands. Jun 05, 2026 [[read-time]] minute read There’s a moment for many creators that’s both thrilling and terrifying: “the leap.†It’s that pivotal decision to go all-in, turning a passion project into a full-time business. […]
Fighting Spyware: An Update From WhatsApp
Last year, WhatsApp made history by securing a landmark verdict and permanent injunction barring NSO Group — a spyware firm blacklisted for actions contrary to US national security — from targeting WhatsApp and its users ever again. The court was unequivocal: NSO violated the federal and state laws against hacking. Today, we’re asking the court […]
How to measure and communicate the value of social media
Effective social media management requires investment: building and maintaining a dedicated social team, overseeing their time and using resources to support their work costs a business money. Budgeting for social relies on support from executive teams, so it’s vital that social marketers are able to communicate the value of their work. But communicating social media […]
The 11 Best Social Media Management Tools in 2026 — Tried + Tested
These are the 11 of the social media management tools — and plenty of alternatives to each tool, if you need them. Top options for social media management vary from beginner-friendly tools to enterprise-level platforms requiring deep analytics and CRM integration. Here’s a quick summary: Tool name Free plan / trial Latest public price Best […]