This week, the tech world continued its pivot to AI, while legal and creative sectors pushed back. In today’s MadTech Daily, we cover Microsoft Advertising’s decision to close Xandr DSP, the EU’s ruling of tracking-based advertising practices employed by tech giants as illegal, and EU regulators’ action against TikTok over alleged violations of the Digital Services Act.

Google made headlines with a USD$1.4bn (£1.1bn) settlement with the State of Texas over two lawsuits accusing the company of illegally tracking residents and collecting biometric data. As Google settles old legal battles, it’s charging ahead with new AI features. The company is now testing a redesign of its iconic Search feature on homepage, replacing the long standing ‘I’m Feeling Lucky’ button with a new AI Mode.

In digital media, the podcast industry got a major revaluation. A new report by Owl & Co revealed the global podcast market generated USD$7.3bn (£5.7bn) in revenue in 2024 more than double most previous estimates.

Meanwhile, the UK’s creative community voiced strong opposition to proposed AI copyright reforms. In an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Starmer, a coalition of leading artists and cultural organisations including Paul McCartney and Dua Lipa urged the government to scrap plans that would permit AI developers to mine copyrighted works without permission. 

Ireland is also stepping up regulatory efforts by proposing that Big Tech platforms be required to verify the legitimacy of financial services advertisers. The move, aimed at curbing a surge in online payment scams, would limit advertising to licensed providers only.