Social media giant Instagram is testing a new feature that will force users to watch advertisements before they can continue browsing the app. These unskippable ads will display a countdown timer, unlike current video ads that users can simply close. This move has sparked concerns among users who worry about the increasing presence of ads disrupting their experience.
While Instagram has not yet announced a wider rollout of the unskippable ads, the test itself signifies a potential shift in the platform's advertising strategy. It's likely that Instagram is looking for ways to increase ad revenue, and forcing users to watch ads could be a lucrative solution. However, this approach could also backfire, leading to user frustration and potentially driving them away from the platform altogether.
On a brighter note, the TechCrunch newsletter also highlighted some positive developments in the tech world. Sonos, a leading manufacturer of home audio systems, has finally entered the headphone market with its highly-rated new offering. This is welcome news for audiophiles looking for a premium wireless headphone experience from a trusted brand.
In the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), Neural Concept has secured $27 million in funding for its innovative design software. This application allows designers to virtually model the performance of components before they are manufactured, potentially saving time and resources across various industries.
The newsletter also dives into the world of finance, reporting on Ally Financial's launch of the Ally Innovation Challenge – Responsible AI. This initiative seeks startups specializing in AI infrastructure that can aid in the development and deployment of ethical and responsible AI solutions within the banking sector.