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Elon Musk’s X tries to prove that pivoting to video is a smart strategy rather than a punchline

Published

9 months ago

January 10, 2024

Elon Musk's X tries to prove that pivoting to video is a smart strategy rather than a punchline

If in doubt, pivot to video.

Over the years, many struggling media companies have bet their futures on online video as a sort of Hail Mary after everything else has failed to turn their businesses around. The strategy, at one point, was so common and, invariably, such a failure, that it became a running joke among Silicon Valley insiders.

That brings us to yesterday, when Elon Musk’s X, the longtime home to brief text-based musings, and more recently, a cratering ad business thanks to its owner’s many missteps, declared that it had become a “video-first platform.” What the service, formerly known as Twitter, means by that statement wasn’t explained. But it suggests that X considers video to be a top priority, if not the top priority, and that many users are already visiting specifically for it. As proof, the company asserted that eight out of 10 user sessions on the service involve people watching videos.

It’s easy to guess why Musk, who paid $44 billion for X last year, only to destroy 71.5% of its value, by one measure, would want X to be “video-first.” It’s the same reason why countless media companies—Yahoo and a number of news outlets circa 2015, for example—bet their futures on video. Video ads command much higher prices than the mere pennies, or fraction of pennies, that individual text ad impressions generate.

But if video was a salvation, it probably would have saved the many media companies of yesteryear that piled on. Instead, it turned out to be yet another misguided strategy after the expected riches failed to pan out—and now the source of a tech industry punchline.

The wishful thinking for X continues when you consider the problem of YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, which already dominate free online video. They’re each helped by armies of creators who churn out clips watched by billions of users combined. X, meanwhile, is a relative newcomer to this space and is so far behind that it’s practically invisible (ironically, the pre-Elon Twitter once owned Vine, a short video app considered a progenitor to TikTok, but the company shut it down in 2017). Yes, X can fork over bucketloads of money to video creators in hopes of eventually catching up, but such a strategy has limited financial upside given that many big-time advertisers want nothing to do with the company and its owner.

Nevertheless, Musk is charging ahead with even more video-related ambitions. Last week, he shared his vision for creating a livestreaming service for video game play, much like Amazon’s Twitch. But again, he would be making a late entry into the free streaming niche, whose underlying value proposition—free—doesn’t exactly scream financial bonanza. In fact, in a sign of its business shortcomings, Twitch said today that it would cut 500 jobs, or 35% of its staff, after two rounds of layoffs last year.

This doesn’t mean X should abandon video. It could very well be a decent business, just probably not a big enough one to justify the company crowing that it’s now a “video-first platform.”

And in general, when you hear about a company pivoting to video, be sure to pivot to being skeptical.

Verne Kopytoff

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NEWSWORTHY

AI voices. SAG-AFTRA, the labor union representing Hollywood actors, has signed a deal with AI voiceover studio Replica Studios that sets terms for the use of digital voice replicas in video games, Variety reported. Union members went on strike last year in part over protections around AI.

Amazon cuts. Amazon cut hundreds of jobs in its Prime Video and MGM Studios divisions, CNBC reported. The news follows two years’ worth of mass layoffs at the company and comes the same day as Amazon-owned Twitch confirmed it will cut 500 employees.

Model 3 in America. Tesla launched the restyled Model 3 in North America, featuring a new rear display for backseat riders and a longer travel distance on a single charge, Reuters reported. The roll-out follows months of sales for the sedan in Europe and China.

IN OUR FEED

“The nice thing about what Adobe did is we said, ‘We’re sidestepping the whole copyright issue by training on licensed works.’ So no matter what happens in those class action lawsuits, our model is fine. We don’t have any concerns.”

—Adobe general counsel and chief trust officer Dana Rao said in an interview with the Verge about court cases surfacing against companies that have trained their AI models on copyrighted materials. Adobe’s Firefly trained only on Adobe Stock content.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Salesforce and Slack pause all hiring in technology and product divisions, according to leaked memo, by Kylie Robison

The European bureaucrat who sends a chill through Big Tech just said she’s looking closely at Microsoft’s relationship with OpenAI, by Paolo Confino

Bryan Johnson’s anti-aging Blueprint ‘basics’ are now officially available to the public for $333 a month—but you’ll need the right ‘vibe’ to join the ‘fun’, by Orianna Rosa Royle

Apple’s VP of finance is the new CFO at Sonos. Here’s what prepared her for the role, by Sheryl Estrada

Walmart experiments with generative AI-powered search tool, expands drone services for customers, by the Associated Press

Cheap EVs help China leapfrog Japan as the world’s largest car exporter—while foreign giants like VW and GM sink in the lucrative Chinese market, Nicholas Gordon

Hacked SEC Twitter account falsely posts agency approved Bitcoin ETFs, by Leo Schwartz

2023 was a worse year for corporate bankruptcies than 2020—and the highest since the GFC—after a stunning 72% surge, S&P Global finds, by Will Daniel

BEFORE YOU GO

Microsoft’s China lab. Microsoft is facing questions from U.S. officials about its 800-person AI research lab in Beijing as tensions between the U.S. and China mount, the New York Times reported, citing current and former Microsoft employees. The company’s top leaders, including CEO Satya Nadella and president Brad Smith, have reportedly discussed what to do with the lab over the past year.

The lab, which opened in 1998, has spearheaded Microsoft’s work in speech, image, and facial recognition. Bill Gates previously called it “an opportunity to tap into the deep pool of intellectual talent in China.”

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12 Proven Methods to Make Money Blogging in 2024

Published

5 months ago

May 14, 2024

Entireweb News Bot

This is a contributed article.

The world of blogging continues to thrive in 2024, offering a compelling avenue for creative minds to share their knowledge, build an audience, and even turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger or just starting, there are numerous effective strategies to monetize your blog and achieve financial success. Here, we delve into 12 proven methods to make money blogging in 2024:

1. Embrace Niche Expertise:

Standing out in the vast blogosphere requires focus. Carving a niche allows you to cater to a specific audience with targeted content. This not only builds a loyal following but also positions you as an authority in your chosen field. Whether it’s gardening techniques, travel hacking tips, or the intricacies of cryptocurrency, delve deep into a subject you’re passionate and knowledgeable about. Targeted audiences are more receptive to monetization efforts, making them ideal for success.

2. Content is King (and Queen):

High-quality content remains the cornerstone of any successful blog. In 2024, readers crave informative, engaging, and well-written content that solves their problems, answers their questions, or entertains them. Invest time in crafting valuable blog posts, articles, or videos that resonate with your target audience.

Focus on evergreen content: Create content that remains relevant for a long time, attracting consistent traffic and boosting your earning potential.
Incorporate multimedia: Spice up your content with captivating images, infographics, or even videos to enhance reader engagement and improve SEO.
Maintain consistency: Develop a regular publishing schedule to build anticipation and keep your audience coming back for more.

3. The Power of SEO:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ensures your blog ranks high in search engine results for relevant keywords. This increases organic traffic, the lifeblood of any monetization strategy.

Keyword research: Use keyword research tools to identify terms your target audience searches for. Strategically incorporate these keywords into your content naturally.
Technical SEO: Optimize your blog’s loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall technical aspects to improve search engine ranking.
Backlink building: Encourage other websites to link back to your content, boosting your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines.

4. Monetization Magic: Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. When a reader clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you get a commission.

Choose relevant affiliates: Promote products or services that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate relationships clearly to your readers and build trust.
Integrate strategically: Don’t just bombard readers with links. Weave affiliate promotions naturally into your content, highlighting the value proposition.

5. Display Advertising: A Classic Approach

Display advertising involves placing banner ads, text ads, or other visual elements on your blog. When a reader clicks on an ad, you earn revenue.

Choose reputable ad networks: Partner with established ad networks that offer competitive rates and relevant ads for your audience.
Strategic ad placement: Place ads thoughtfully, avoiding an overwhelming experience for readers.
Track your performance: Monitor ad clicks and conversions to measure the effectiveness of your ad placements and optimize for better results.

6. Offer Premium Content:

Providing exclusive, in-depth content behind a paywall can generate additional income. This could be premium blog posts, ebooks, online courses, or webinars.

Deliver exceptional value: Ensure your premium content offers significant value that justifies the price tag.
Multiple pricing options: Consider offering tiered subscription plans to cater to different audience needs and budgets.
Promote effectively: Highlight the benefits of your premium content and encourage readers to subscribe.

7. Coaching and Consulting:

Leverage your expertise by offering coaching or consulting services related to your niche. Readers who find your content valuable may be interested in personalized guidance.

Position yourself as an expert: Showcase your qualifications, experience, and client testimonials to build trust and establish your credibility.
Offer free consultations: Provide a limited free consultation to potential clients, allowing them to experience your expertise firsthand.
Develop clear packages: Outline different coaching or consulting packages with varying time commitments and pricing structures.

8. The Power of Community: Online Events and Webinars

Host online events or webinars related to your niche. These events offer valuable content while also providing an opportunity to promote other monetization avenues.

Interactive and engaging: Structure your online events to be interactive with polls, Q&A sessions, or live chats. Click here to learn more about image marketing with Q&A sessions and live chats.

9. Embrace the Power of Email Marketing:

Building an email list allows you to foster stronger relationships with your audience and promote your content and offerings directly.

Offer valuable incentives: Encourage readers to subscribe by offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access to new products.
Segmentation is key: Segment your email list based on reader interests to send targeted campaigns that resonate more effectively.
Regular communication: Maintain consistent communication with your subscribers through engaging newsletters or updates.

10. Sell Your Own Products:

Take your expertise to the next level by creating and selling your own products. This could be physical merchandise, digital downloads, or even printables related to your niche.

Identify audience needs: Develop products that address the specific needs and desires of your target audience.
High-quality offerings: Invest in creating high-quality products that offer exceptional value and user experience.
Utilize multiple platforms: Sell your products through your blog, online marketplaces, or even social media platforms.

11. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations:

Partner with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored content or collaborations. This can be a lucrative way to leverage your audience and generate income.

Maintain editorial control: While working with sponsors, ensure you retain editorial control to maintain your blog’s authenticity and audience trust.
Disclosures are essential: Clearly disclose sponsored content to readers, upholding transparency and ethical practices.
Align with your niche: Partner with brands that complement your content and resonate with your audience.

12. Freelancing and Paid Writing Opportunities:

Your blog can serve as a springboard for freelance writing opportunities. Showcase your writing skills and expertise through your blog content, attracting potential clients.

Target relevant publications: Identify online publications, websites, or magazines related to your niche and pitch your writing services.
High-quality samples: Include high-quality blog posts from your site as writing samples when pitching to potential clients.
Develop strong writing skills: Continuously hone your writing skills and stay updated on current trends in your niche to deliver exceptional work.

Conclusion:

Building a successful blog that generates income requires dedication, strategic planning, and high-quality content. In today’s digital age, there are numerous opportunities to make money online through blogging. By utilizing a combination of methods such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling digital products or services, you can leverage your blog’s potential and achieve financial success.

Remember, consistency in posting, engaging with your audience, and staying adaptable to trends are key to thriving in the ever-evolving blogosphere. Embrace new strategies, refine your approaches, and always keep your readers at the forefront of your content creation journey. With dedication and the right approach, your blog has the potential to become a valuable source of income and a platform for sharing your knowledge and passion with the world, making money online while doing what you love.

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

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Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?

Published

7 months ago

March 18, 2024

Max

Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?

In a recent announcement, Snapchat revealed a groundbreaking update that challenges its traditional design ethos. The platform is experimenting with an option that allows users to defy the 24-hour auto-delete rule, a feature synonymous with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging model.

The proposed change aims to introduce a “Never delete” option in messaging retention settings, aligning Snapchat more closely with conventional messaging apps. While this move may blur Snapchat’s distinctive selling point, Snap appears convinced of its necessity.

According to Snap, the decision stems from user feedback and a commitment to innovation based on user needs. The company aims to provide greater flexibility and control over conversations, catering to the preferences of its community.

Currently undergoing trials in select markets, the new feature empowers users to adjust retention settings on a conversation-by-conversation basis. Flexibility remains paramount, with participants able to modify settings within chats and receive in-chat notifications to ensure transparency.

Snapchat underscores that the default auto-delete feature will persist, reinforcing its design philosophy centered on ephemerality. However, with the app gaining traction as a primary messaging platform, the option offers users a means to preserve longer chat histories.

The update marks a pivotal moment for Snapchat, renowned for its disappearing message premise, especially popular among younger demographics. Retaining this focus has been pivotal to Snapchat’s identity, but the shift suggests a broader strategy aimed at diversifying its user base.

This strategy may appeal particularly to older demographics, potentially extending Snapchat’s relevance as users age. By emulating features of conventional messaging platforms, Snapchat seeks to enhance its appeal and broaden its reach.

Yet, the introduction of message retention poses questions about Snapchat’s uniqueness. While addressing user demands, the risk of diluting Snapchat’s distinctiveness looms large.

As Snapchat ventures into uncharted territory, the outcome of this experiment remains uncertain. Will message retention propel Snapchat to new heights, or will it compromise the platform’s uniqueness?

Only time will tell.

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Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach

Published

8 months ago

February 26, 2024

Entireweb News Bot

Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach

While it is tempting to try to appeal to a broad audience, the founder of alcohol-free coaching service Just the Tonic, Sandra Parker, believes the best thing you can do for your business is focus on your niche. Here’s how she did just that.

When running a business, reaching out to as many clients as possible can be tempting. But it also risks making your marketing “too generic,” warns Sandra Parker, the founder of Just The Tonic Coaching.

“From the very start of my business, I knew exactly who I could help and who I couldn’t,” Parker told My Biggest Lessons.

Parker struggled with alcohol dependence as a young professional. Today, her business targets high-achieving individuals who face challenges similar to those she had early in her career.

“I understand their frustrations, I understand their fears, and I understand their coping mechanisms and the stories they’re telling themselves,” Parker said. “Because of that, I’m able to market very effectively, to speak in a language that they understand, and am able to reach them.”Â

“I believe that it’s really important that you know exactly who your customer or your client is, and you target them, and you resist the temptation to make your marketing too generic to try and reach everyone,” she explained.

“If you speak specifically to your target clients, you will reach them, and I believe that’s the way that you’re going to be more successful.

Watch the video for more of Sandra Parker’s biggest lessons.

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