Gaming
APPOCALYPSE NOW: MOBILE ADVERTISERS HAVE THEIR SAY ON PRIVACY-FIRST MARKETING
– Industry defining report from Tenjin and Growth FullStack sheds a light on mobile marketing one year on from Apple’s privacy changes –
Tenjin, a leading mobile measurement platform for indie and mid-sized mobile game publishers, together with Growth FullStack, a platform powering custom business intelligence for mobile advertisers, today release the full report of their revelatory research findings about the state of mobile marketing.
With billions of people shopping, socializing, scrolling and, of course, gaming on mobile for up to a third of their waking moments, it’s hardly surprising that mobile ad spend reached a spectacular $300 billion in 2021. This amount could hit as much as $350 billion in 2022, reflecting the strength of an industry boosted by permanent changes to user behavior brought about by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Yet, for an industry that is so accustomed to knowing whom its dollars target and the return on investment they deliver with pinpoint granularity, the last year has been a rude awakening. Privacy-first changes have forever altered familiar ways of targeting and measuring ad performance, particularly on what is often seen as the most lucrative ecosystem of them all – Apple’s iOS.
Between the doomsaying predictions and a picture of booming ad spend, the reality mobile advertisers are operating in is much more nuanced. Tenjin and Growth FullStack wanted to drill deeper, and commissioned market research agency Atomik Research to conduct an online survey of more than 302 mobile advertisers in the UK and US.
Christopher Farm, CEO and Co-Founder of Tenjin, said:
“While the appocalypse may not have materialized as first predicted, our research shows that there are indeed some tectonic shifts underway. The reality is that the full ramifications of privacy-first marketing aren’t yet understood, even by people like us who spend their days entirely focused on deciphering them and coming up with solutions.”
Key findings:
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Expectations vs reality – Despite feeling reasonably well prepared for Apple’s privacy changes (53% fairly, 15% very), the majority (55%) of mobile advertisers say that mobile advertising became more difficult in 2021. This had a considerable negative impact on advertisers’ revenues – The median estimated revenue loss due to Apple’s privacy changes was 39%.
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Patchwork strategies – Mobile advertisers are using a patchwork of strategies to achieve success. 85% used probabilistic attribution or fingerprinting in 2022, despite more than three-quarters (77%) expecting Apple to clamp down on fingerprinting.
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Teething problems with SKAN – Making the most of Apple’s anonymized SKAdNetwork data is a challenge for mobile advertisers. Few (32%) of companies have access to in-house data science talent, but three-quarters (75%) have implemented some form of marketing automation to gain insight from large, disparate datasets.
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Gaming – Mobile games advertisers felt the impact of Apple’s privacy-first changes most keenly of all. They were more convinced that mobile marketing became more difficult in 2021 (gaming 68% vs 43% non-gaming), more likely to shift budget to Android (63% vs 48%), and use attribution methods such as probabilistic attribution or fingerprinting (91% vs 70%).
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Optimism for 2022 – Despite a tough 2021, mobile advertisers are largely positive and bullish. 85% were optimistic that marketing would be less challenging in 2022, while almost two-thirds (65%) planned to increase rather than decrease their ad spend.
Christopher Farm commented on the findings:
“Mobile marketing can be best characterized as in a zombified state that’s somewhere between the familiar era of unrestricted targeting and the new, privacy-first one. The sustainability of the current patchwork model remains to be seen. It’s likely that, in the not too distant future, committing to understanding SKAN will become imperative rather than optional. And yet, despite a rough 2021 for mobile advertisers’ bottom lines, and with more change ahead, our research shows that advertisers’ optimism remains strong. After all, one thing is unchanged: the best mobile content and services are in high demand from billions of people the world over, on both iOS and Android.”
The research fieldwork took place with 302 companies with no known affiliation to Tenjin or Growth FullStack, and was conducted by Atomik Research, an independent creative market research agency that employs MRS-certified researchers and abides to MRS code.
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Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.
“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”
A New Era of Interactive Entertainment
The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.
“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”
Built for Content Partners
Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.
Key Features of Fourth Star
- VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
- Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
- Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
- Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
- Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
- AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon
FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star
FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:
- VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
- Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.
A New Paradigm in Entertainment
Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:
- A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
- A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
- Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
- Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.
Availability and Access
Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.
The post Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Significant industry first will see game launch from day one across 5 alternative stores in addition to Apple and Google.
Flexion, the games marketing company, announces a partnership with preeminent developer King to market new game Candy Crush Solitaire© in alternative app stores.
Expected to be one of the exciting game announcements of the year, Candy Crush Solitaire© will be available on the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei App Gallery, Xiaomi GetApps and ONE store from the get-go thanks to Flexion’s expertise and technology. The game launches globally across platforms on 6 February and is already available for preregistration in all the stores.
Flexion has had a partnership with King since June 2024 to market Candy Crush Saga© on the alternative stores. With this latest deal, both companies are breaking new ground with concurrent launches, taking them to the leading edge of games marketing.
“This is the first time King will launch simultaneously across such a wide range of platforms,” says Jens Lauritzson, Flexion’s CEO. “King has recognised that mobile audiences come from a more diverse range of markets these days, and we are thrilled to be able to help them reach those markets. Flexion has brought to the partnership the tech, experience and expertise to ensure the ultimate in user choice.”
Commenting on the deal, Benjamin Pommeraud, General Manager of Strategic Initiatives at King, says: “We’re excited to partner with Flexion to make Candy Crush Solitaire available to more players. As our first expansion of the Candy universe into a new genre, this collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality experiences that are accessible to everyone, no matter where they choose to play.”
The post Flexion partners with King to launch Candy Crush Solitaire© simultaneously across platforms appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
FreezeNova
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
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