EU files antitrust charges against Google – here's how the ad tech at the heart of the case works

Antitrust suits against Google for its advertising practices center on the technology for buying and selling online ads. A computer scientist explains how these ad networks work.

Eric Zeng, Postdoctoral Researcher in Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University • conversation
June 15, 2023 • ~10 min

AI's threat to Google is more about advertising income than being the number one search engine

Could Google’s undisputed dominance as a search engine come under threat from AI?

Andy Tattersall, Information Specialist, University of Sheffield • conversation
Feb. 17, 2023 • ~8 min

Elon Musk's plans for Twitter could make its misinformation problems worse

Twitter, more than other social media platforms, fosters real-time discussion about events as they unfold. That could change now that Musk has gained control of the company.

Anjana Susarla, Professor of Information Systems, Michigan State University • conversation
April 25, 2022 • ~9 min

Elon Musk's bid spotlights Twitter's unique role in public discourse – and what changes might be in store

Twitter, more than other social media platforms, fosters real-time discussion about events as they unfold. That could change if Musk gains control of the company.

Anjana Susarla, Professor of Information Systems, Michigan State University • conversation
April 15, 2022 • ~8 min

Why 'bad' ads appear on 'good' websites – a computer scientist explains

A combination of volume, technology and financial need has opened the door to sleazy and dangerous advertisements on reputable websites.

Eric Zeng, PhD Candidate in Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington • conversation
April 13, 2022 • ~10 min

Google’s scrapping third-party cookies – but invasive targeted advertising will live on

Google's shift to 'profiling' is being billed as a privacy boon – but it's also a strategic pivot.

Eerke Boiten, Professor of Cybersecurity, School of Computer Science and Informatics, De Montfort University • conversation
March 8, 2021 • ~7 min

Instagram's redesign shifts toward shopping – here's how that can be harmful

Instagram's Shop button signals the growing commodification of human interactions on social media.

Nazanin Andalibi, Assistant Professor, School of Information, University of Michigan • conversation
Dec. 28, 2020 • ~9 min

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