🐙 Let There Be Ads!

Recent TLC warning to drivers & vehicle owners about using T-Mobile-owned Octopus Interactive tablets, should serve as inspiration to (once again) push for regulated, in-car ads in all NYC FHVs

A few days ago, the TLC sent an industry-wide email, warning against the use of T-Mobile-owned Octopus Interactive passenger tablets, that some drivers and vehicle owners attach to the back headrests of their vehicles front seats. Octopus essentially gives a cut of the ad revenue they generate to drivers and/or vehicle owners.

T-Mobile acquired Octopus’ “rideshare advertising” tablet network in early 2022. The concept is fairly straightforward, it’s a modern day version of a “Taxi TV” that you find in the back of many yellow cabs. While some passengers famously ignore, shut off or mute backseat screens, companies are willing to pay money for ads. T-Mobile US, which has over 100 million wireless customers, wouldn’t have bought Octopus if it didn’t think there was value in their rideshare tablet ad network.

“With this move, we’re expanding our toolkit for marketers, meeting the needs of advertisers and empowering brands to better connect with consumers, beyond linear and traditional digi…