CMORoom News Insider; 1.26.26

1. Get ready for the AI ad-pocalypse

Generative AI is rapidly reshaping advertising, lowering production costs and flooding feeds with AI-generated ads, but also sparking backlash about creativity, authenticity, and consumer reactions. Some brands embrace AI, others push back, and a counter-movement celebrating imperfect, human creativity is emerging. Source: https://tinyurl.com/AI-Ads-Verge

2. TikTok launches new ad solutions targeting entertainment marketers

TikTok is expanding its ad offerings with Streaming Ads and New Title Launch tools, designed to help entertainment brands deliver personalized, platform-native content and drive subscriptions and ticket sales. Source: https://tinyurl.com/TikTok-Entertainment-Ads

3. Pinterest announces major marketing leadership hires

Pinterest appointed new top business and marketing leads to accelerate growth as an AI-driven shopping destination. These moves signal a stronger focus on advertising, brand strategy, and Gen Z engagement as the platform evolves. Source: https://tinyurl.com/Pinterest-New-CMOs

4. Hot debate: controversial David protein bar ad campaign

A recent billboard and short film campaign has sparked criticism for leaning into outdated gender tropes and shock tactics, triggering industry conversation about when provocative advertising crosses the line and what authentic empowerment looks like. Source: https://tinyurl.com/David-Protein-Ad

5. Salesforce taps MrBeast for a Super Bowl ad

The blockbuster collaboration between Salesforce and YouTube megacreator MrBeast ahead of Super Bowl 60 shows how brands are partnering with cultural stars for buzzworthy big-game creative, a key trend in experiential and social-first marketing. Source: https://tinyurl.com/MrBeast-SF-BowlAd