Today’s roundup explores how brands are bridging the gap between the digital and physical. From Google’s new ad deal with Roblox to the growing concern over data privacy, and a fresh look at why print still holds power, here’s what people are talking about this week.

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1. Google’s Most Immersive Ads Yet, Now in Roblox

Google has struck a deal with gaming giant Roblox to bring the latter’s immersive ad formats – like rewarded videos and 3D billboards – into its ad ecosystem. For the first time, advertisers can book Roblox placements using the same tools they use for YouTube or display ads… and reach up to 85.3 million daily active users who spend an average of 2.5 hours daily on the app.

For Roblox, it’s a revenue win. For Google, however, it’s a foothold in one of the most popular platforms for Gen Z and Gen Alpha. And for marketers? It’s a new way to show up in a space where users willingly spend hours a day, highly focused and engaged.

What this means for you:

Roblox is a huge platform with a staggering number of users, so consider adding this platform to your advertising strategy, especially if you’re planning to target younger demographics. You can start small, with rewarded video units, for example, to see what works, and track both engagement rates and brand recall metrics to assess if this is worth a bigger investment.

2. Google Fingerprinting Raises Privacy Alarms

Cookies may be going out of style, but much to the surprise of nobody, Google’s still keeping tabs on your data – just with a newer, more sophisticated method. “Google fingerprinting” collects hardware-specific data, like browser extensions and screen resolution, to create a digital signature that follows users across devices and platforms.

Unfortunately, this method collects data whether you’re logged into your Google account or not. While Google maintains it never sells personal information and uses the data collected for better ads and greater security, the lack of control or ability to delete this data has left privacy advocates worried.

If you’re concerned, VPNs and disabling unnecessary browser extensions may offer some protection.

What this means for you:

Thanks to Google fingerprinting, targeting remains precise despite the disappearance of traditional cookies. However, it’s also gotten less transparent. Hence, amidst the backlash, it’s wise to keep an eye on evolving privacy policies and growing user sentiment. Transparency in how you collect and use data isn’t just ethical – it’s essential in maintaining customer trust.

3. Print Makes a Comeback Amidst Digital Fatigue

In a world of overflowing email inboxes and digital ads at every click, print is quietly making a case for itself. While everyone else battles for milliseconds of attention online, some businesses are rediscovering that tangible items – like business cards and postcards – create lasting impressions that digital ads cannot match.

The advantage of print isn’t just nostalgia; it’s science. Since physical materials engage multiple senses, they’re better trusted, remembered, and often kept. They do the same job as online ads, but as they sit patiently on desks, fridges, and countertops, they leave a longer-lasting impact.

And with tools like QR codes, it’s easy to bring the offline online.

What this means for you:

Start by identifying one print element that complements your existing marketing efforts – perhaps high-quality business cards, well-designed flyers, or postcards with special offers (don’t forget your QR code). To measure results, you can use specific codes printed on your materials or generate a survey to track how many recipients mention receiving your print ads.

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