Gen-Z loves Valentine's Day - How brands are responding

After years of resistance, Netflix is finally allowing some integration with Apple’s TV app, marking a major shift in its platform strategy. The Verge reports that Apple TV 4K users in the U.S. can now link their Netflix accounts, enabling features like adding select originals—such as Squid Game and Stranger Things—to their Apple TV watchlist and continue watching section. However, the integration remains limited, with only part of Netflix’s catalog available and no full third-party support. This move signals a potential shift in Netflix’s approach to content distribution, opening the door for further platform collaborations.

Cameron Diaz's return to acting in Netflix's "Back in Action," co-starring Jamie Foxx, has garnered significant attention. The film amassed 46.8 million views within its first three days, marking the biggest opening weekend for an English-language Netflix film since "The Adam Project."

Remember when streaming services felt like a breath of fresh air with bold, risk-taking content? Those days might be fading. Ars Technica reports that platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are shifting gears, focusing more on mainstream content—think live sports and reality TV—rather than the experimental storytelling that made them stand out. It’s a smart business move in a competitive market, but it begs the question: are we headed back to the same old formulaic entertainment we tried to escape?

After a temporary removal due to national security concerns, ByteDance's popular apps, TikTok and CapCut, have returned to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in the U.S. Fast Company reports that upon their reinstatement, both apps quickly climbed back to the top of the download charts, reflecting strong user demand.

Spotify’s investment in video podcasts is delivering major results. PPC Land reports that after launching its Partner Program in January across key markets, Spotify saw a 300% increase in video podcast revenue. By combining Premium user engagement payouts with ad monetization, the platform boosted video podcast consumption by over 20%, with top creators earning six-figure incomes.

As Valentine's Day approaches, brands are tailoring their campaigns to resonate with Gen Z's unique preferences. According to Ad Age, retailers like Anthropologie launched their Valentine's Day promotions earlier than ever, starting on December 26, to capture Gen Z's attention. Additionally, companies such as Grillo's Pickles have introduced unconventional products, like pickle bouquets, to appeal to Gen Z's appreciation for humor and novelty.

As frustration with dating apps grows, more people are turning to in-person connections through shared activities. WIRED reports that in San Francisco, athletic communities like The Mission Athletic Club, the cycling group Fatcake, and various running clubs are becoming popular alternatives to online dating. These groups foster organic relationships through consistent, face-to-face interactions, allowing connections to develop naturally without the pressures of apps. Prioritizing inclusivity and social bonds, this trend reflects a broader post-pandemic shift toward authentic, community-driven dating experiences.

With Super Bowl ads costing upwards of $8 million for just 30 seconds, brands made strategic choices on how to maximize their investment. Adweek explored whether longer ad spots delivered better results or if storytelling was the real key to success. They found that while 60- and 90-second ads provided more room for narrative, experts agreed that strong storytelling—regardless of length—was what made a commercial memorable.

In an era where standing out is harder than ever, Kendrick Lamar cracked the code. Adweek explores how his unconventional moves—dropping surprise projects, defying expectations, and sparking cultural conversations—set him apart. For brands struggling to break through the noise, Lamar’s approach serves as a bold, compelling roadmap.

Swipe left on dating apps? More people are doing just that. WIRED’s Uncanny Valley podcast explores why online dating feels broken—blame gamification, shady monetization, and scammy profiles. AI might step in to fix things, but if the solution is more bots, is that really the kind of match we’re looking for?