1. Google Sunsetting Universal Analytics In 2023
Google is getting ready to sunset Universal Analytics, which was the standard version of Google Analytics before GA4, in mid-2023. Universal Analytics 360 properties will have an extra three months of data processing, ending on October 1, 2023. After those dates, Google Analytics 4 will be the new go-to solution for monitoring website activity. [Source: Search Engine Journal]
2. Snapchat Adds New ‘Custom Landmarkers’ to Build Location-Linked AR Experiences
Snapchat’s adding another way for marketers to utilize its AR Landmarks feature, with a new Custom Landmarkers option in Lens Studio that will enable anyone to create a location-locked AR experience. [Source: Social Media Today]
3. Microsoft’s Automotive Ads get more placements, roll out globally
Microsoft Advertising has expanded Automotive Ads placements and rolled out the open beta to all advertisers globally. More ad placements may enable businesses such as car dealerships to get in front of more potential customers. [Source: Search Engine Land]
4. Google Launches New ‘Related Search for Content’ Ads to Help Improve On-Site Engagement
Google has added a new ad unit to its AdSense suite, with ‘Related Search for Content’, which aims to help drive users to more related elements on your site. [Source: Social Media Today]
5. Marketo’s March ‘22 release: Let’s chat
One of the biggest stories from Marketo’s latest release is their planned entry into the world of chat software. Marketo does seem to be entering a competitive space. Regardless, their intention to include this feature within all packages will certainly turn heads amongst the competition. [Source: MarTech]
6. Google rolls out Search Ads 360 integration for Google Analytics 4
Google has launched a Search Ads 360 integration for Google Analytics 4 (GA4). Integrating Search Ads 360 data into GA4 enables advertisers to see sessions, users and conversions within the context of dimensions such as source, campaign, medium and default channel grouping. [Source: Search Engine Land]
7. Microsoft releases DirectStorage: ‘a new era of fast load times and detailed worlds in PC games’
Microsoft says the DirectStorage API has arrived. This public SDK release begins a new era of fast load times and detailed worlds in PC games by allowing developers to more fully utilize the speed of the latest storage devices. [Source: The Verge]
8. Meta Adds New Parental Control Elements for Instagram and VR
Meta’s rolling out a new set of parental supervision and control tools for both Instagram and Quest VR, which address key elements of concern with usage and exposure among younger users. [Source: Social Media Today]
9. Google vehicle ads in Search now shows nearby cars for sale
Google has introduced vehicle ads, a new ad format in Search that shows nearby cars for sale as more and more people turn to the web to find their next car. Currently available in the US and coming to more countries soon, vehicle ads can help car sellers easily reach customers looking for a new ride. [Source: ET Brand Equity]
10. Google refine this search and broaden this search now live in search results
Google Search has rolled out the “refine this search” and “broaden this search” in the U.S.-based English search results. These new search features may lead to searchers finding more ways to discover your site in Google Search. [Source: Search Engine Land]
