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JANUARY 7, 2026 |
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What is the top metric that marketers use to measure AI search engine (AEO) performance? |
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A) Site traffic B) Conversions C) Brand mentions in AI responses |
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TOP STORY |
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AI search is no longer an experimental tool for consumers. Daily AI search users in the US rose from 14% in February 2025 to 29.2% in August 2025, according to a HigherVisibility report. |
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While not all consumers explicitly turn to AI for search, Google’s prioritization of zero-click, AI-generated responses has cornered many into it. Instead of sifting through multiple pages, they trust concise summaries to make decisions quickly. |
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IN THE NEWS |
Why an OpenAI acquisition of Pinterest would help it compete with Google, Meta, and Amazon. OpenAI could explore a potential acquisition of Pinterest to secure a direct source of human-generated data, particularly around product discovery and shopping intent, The Information reports. Read online |
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Other headlines: |
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NBCU unveils agentic AI system to plan and optimize TV in seconds. NBCUniversal, RPA, FreeWheel, and Newton Research unveiled a proof-of-concept that uses agentic AI to plan, execute, and optimize a single premium video investment across linear TV and streaming in seconds. Read online
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iSpot inks measurement deal with Roku, the second largest CTV operator. Roku will be the first streaming publisher to integrate iSpot’s Outcomes at Scale product, the companies announced Tuesday. Read online | | | |
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ANALYSIS |
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Amid a challenging economic climate, luxury brands seek new ways to prove value to and win over young shoppers. By serving food and drink alongside products, retailers are turning stores into places where consumers can linger, connect, and spend. Coach’s coffee strategy is a prime example. |
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PODCAST |
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On today's episode, our analysts compete in a "Great British Bake Off"–style competition, discussing how ecommerce's digital shelf will adapt for AI audiences and how retailers will counter AI’s rise by connecting with customers IRL. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Or watch our video podcast on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram. |
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