Michael Epps Utley 
Over just the past week, three major moves have signaled shifting dynamics in tech dominance, content creation, and search strategy. From Meta’s deepening investment in AI infrastructure to Amazon’s foray into automated video ads and Google pulling back on structured data features, these developments offer a glimpse into where digital marketing and artificial intelligence may be heading next.
Meta Buys Into Scale AI
Meta has acquired a 49% stake in Scale AI, a company that provides the training data infrastructure used by major AI players, including OpenAI. This move suggests a growing trend: tech giants aren’t just racing to build the best AI tools, they're racing to own the pipelines that fuel them.
As reported by Reuters, OpenAI has indicated it will continue working with Scale AI, despite Meta’s sizable investment.
This acquisition marks another step toward vertical integration in the AI space, where companies aren’t just offering models but are securing control over every link in the chain, from data to deployment. It’s a signal to watch closely: if this trend continues, expect more M&A activity that consolidates AI infrastructure under a handful of tech powerhouses.
Amazon Launches AI-Generated Video Ads
Amazon has begun selling AI-generated video ads, a development with major implications for marketers and creatives alike. The appeal is clear: brands can now tap into high-quality ad creation without shelling out for costly production teams.
But this development isn’t without risks. As Marketplace reports, AI-generated visuals can fall short, producing inaccurate, awkward, or overly generic content. Moreover, this shift could disrupt the traditional video production industry, potentially undercutting thousands of creators and agencies possessing important skill sets.
That said, the democratization of video creation may help smaller businesses break into competitive ad markets. The real question is whether quality and brand authenticity can keep up with scale.
Google Cleans House on Structured Data
Meanwhile, Google has announced it is retiring seven types of structured data, including Book Actions, Course Info, Claim Review, Estimated Salary, Learning Video, Special Announcement, and Vehicle Listing.
According to Search Engine Journal, this change won’t affect rankings but will impact how some content appears in search results.
Why the shift? Google cites a lack of widespread adoption for these particular schema types. But for marketers and SEO pros, it’s a reminder that structured data strategies must evolve. If your content relied heavily on these markup types, it’s time to reassess your schema implementation and refocus on higher-impact formats like FAQ, HowTo, Product, or Review.
What Now?
These moves—Meta’s strategic stake in Scale AI, Amazon’s rollout of AI video ads, and Google’s pruning of structured data—underscore a single truth: the AI-powered future of digital marketing is already here, and it’s evolving fast.
Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, or creative, now’s the time to monitor these developments closely. The rules of content, visibility, and influence are being rewritten—make sure you’re not reading yesterday’s playbook.
Want help navigating the future of digital marketing? Let’s talk. Whether you need a smarter video strategy, updated SEO tactics, or guidance on integrating AI into your content, we’re here to help. Reach out today and stay ahead of the curve.
