Sam Blumenthal

As online video platforms seek a business model beyond advertising, and short videos start to look more and more like commercials, it turns out that commerce may be video’s killer app. And not only could video apps become ecommerce apps, but all ecommerce apps may also have to become video apps. Various platforms from China show us how this can be... See more

Retailers respond to Swaypay because by offering discounts in exchange for social sharing, they can increase conversion at checkout, acquire new shoppers while generating margin on the first sale, and drive stickiness by working with shoppers. The shopper wins, the retailer wins, Google and Facebook lose (a little).  Currently, Swaypay works with... See more

By definition, a virtual influencer is a fictional AI-generated person with realistic characteristics, features and personalities of humans. They behave just like real-life influencers. They speak to the camera, share selfies, feelings and thoughts. The only difference is the content. And, well, the obvious – they’re computer-generated with... See more

On Instagram, Olaplex has long defended its reputation for quality via a robust network of affiliated stylists. But the brand has taken over TikTok with a different approach, owing its prominence largely to organic endorsements from amateur beauty and lifestyle creators. In contrast to Instagram content from haircare professionals, which tends to... See more