Snapchat Launches Programmatic Ads for Discover Content
Snapchat is taking a bold step to enhance its advertising strategy by introducing programmatic ads within Discover content, particularly for Snapchat shows. This approach is aimed at improving ad inventory fill rates and maximizing revenue opportunities. Below, we explore the critical aspects of this new initiative and its anticipated impact on the platform.
Key Details of Snapchat’s Programmatic Ads Initiative
Background: Addressing Ad Inventory Challenges
Snapchat has historically sold ad space directly, which limited its flexibility and led to challenges in effectively filling ad inventory. This resulted in many shows launching without ads, reducing the platform’s potential revenue from Discover content.
Programmatic Integration: A New Approach to Ad Sales
With programmatic buying, advertisers can now purchase ad space through Snap’s ad manager and various API partners. This new system offers advertisers more automation and flexibility, enabling them to target ad placements across the platform, including public user stories and curated Discover content.
Current Challenges for Programmatic Ads on Snapchat
Snap’s entry into programmatic ads for Discover content brings certain challenges:
- Inexperience with Programmatic Ads for Shows: Snapchat is still new to programmatic ad sales within show formats.
- Data Limitations: The platform currently lacks substantial performance data, making it harder to showcase the effectiveness of these ads to potential advertisers.
Revenue Sharing Model: Implications for Media Partners
Under Snapchat’s revenue-sharing model, media partners are responsible for funding the production of shows while Snapchat takes a 50% share of ad revenue. This setup has raised concerns, particularly for smaller publishers, who may find profitability difficult if they cannot generate sufficient advertising revenue.
Expected Outcomes of Snapchat’s Programmatic Ad Strategy
Increased Ad Inventory and Revenue Opportunities
The introduction of programmatic ads is expected to help fill previously unmonetized content, leading to better revenue outcomes for both Snapchat and its media partners. This expansion in ad inventory is anticipated to attract a wider range of advertisers who can benefit from Snapchat’s advanced targeting options.
Future Developments: Expanding Brand Integration
Snapchat is also seeking to recruit a head of brand integration to optimize brand placements within its shows and Discover content. This suggests a broader vision for enhanced monetization by offering more tailored advertising formats and greater brand engagement.
Broader Implications for the Digital Advertising Landscape
Snapchat’s pivot toward programmatic ads reflects a wider trend within digital advertising, where automation and data-driven decision-making play increasingly essential roles. Programmatic solutions are becoming crucial for platforms looking to maximize ad efficiency and create highly targeted campaigns.
How Digilogy Can Help You Navigate Snapchat’s New Advertising Opportunities
As programmatic advertising becomes an integral part of platforms like Snapchat, partnering with a skilled digital marketing agency can help you leverage these advanced tools to reach your audience effectively. At Digilogy, we specialize in optimizing ad campaigns across platforms, ensuring that your brand takes full advantage of the latest digital advertising innovations.
Contact Digilogy today to elevate your advertising strategy and connect with your audience in impactful new ways.



