Vulnerability, spontaneity, imperfection and not trying to please everyone are keys to unlocking successful brand creativity, writes Matt McCain, co-founder of Little Hands of Stone. He adds, "If you're willing to loosen your grip on the steering wheel and let your brand show up as its authentic, flawed, quirky whole self, you'll build deeper connections with your audience."

Google Ads' Demand Gen now lets advertisers create images by prompting generative AI and use their existing assets to spawn similar visual content. The company promises that all images the engine creates will be unique.

Yahoo has expanded its Next-Gen Solutions and ConnectID identity programs to include connected TV media. As IP address identification and third-party cookies decline, Yahoo executives say, new forms of data become increasingly important.

Integral Ad Science has incorporated Global Alliance for Responsible Media misinformation discussion standards into its Total Media Quality AI-powered brand safety product. Other new features include enhanced reporting at the content level, more streamlined user experiences and the ability to track brand suitability and safety over time.

J.M. Smucker has reinvigorated market share growth for several iconic brands such as Jif, Folgers and Smucker's itself since adopting the "Power of One" marketing model six years ago, said Gail Hollander, chief marketing officer. "[W]e fuel these iconic brands with modern energy by thinking about the brand's DNA and by uncovering a big brand platform idea, and those ideas tap into culture in unique and ongoing ways," explained Hollander.

Demand for digital streaming and podcast advertising drove radio's digital revenue up 6.8% to reach $1.9 billion last year, a Borrell Associates and Radio Advertising Bureau study reveals. Data from the Interactive Advertising Bureau indicates that digital audio's 18.9% 2023 revenue increase made it the fastest-growing segment in online advertising.

Red Lobster has used AI to create two playlists with 30 original songs in multiple genres, all to celebrate the seafood chain's Cheddar Bay Biscuits. The songs were developed using fan feedback about the popular menu items and have titles like "Cheddar Bay Serenade," "Chedda Bay Bouncin'" and "My Ride or Dine."

John Deere is inviting social media users to enter a contest to be the brand's "chief tractor officer," a real job that will involve creating its TikTok content. A video touting the competition follows NFL stars and teammates Brock Purdy and Colton McKivitz as they attempt to set off on a road trip on a tractor, only to get constantly interrupted by athletes and social stars who want to apply for the job.

The number of companies with C-suite leaders specializing in AI has more than tripled in the past five years, according to LinkedIn, but not all companies may need that level of expertise. HR experts reflect on the factors to be considered, noting what an AI executive can bring to an organization as well as the difficulties that may be encountered finding someone who's truly qualified.

Boston Dynamics announced that Atlas the humanoid robot that "sparked the imagination" -- and some "Terminator"-inspired fear, especially when it became untethered -- was being retired, and you can even post your well wishes in the comments of the farewell video on YouTube. The video is a clip show not unlike watching your human baby growing to adulthood, but in this case a clumsy lump of metal and hydraulic fluid blossoming into a graceful athlete worthy of competing on "American Ninja Warrior" if it had a robotics division. Enjoy your golden years, Atlas!