This story was originally published in On Background with Mark Stenberg, a free, weekly newsletter that explores the key themes shaping the media industry. You can sign up for it here.
The outlet, which caters to a niche audience of serial travelers, brought in $18.3 million in revenue last year, up from $15.6 million in 2024, according to chief executive Louise Story.
The top-line figure still represents a downturn from years previous—in 2023, the company was on pace to bring in $24 million in total earnings—but the publisher was able to turn a profit this year of $2.6 million.
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Veteran Media Executive Lena Samuelsson Joins WAN-IFRA as Strategic Advisor
Table of Contents
- 1. Veteran Media Executive Lena Samuelsson Joins WAN-IFRA as Strategic Advisor
- 2. What are the key initiatives led by Lena K. Samuelsson at WAN‑IFRA to drive digital change in the global news industry?
- 3. Lena K. Samuelsson: Guiding Digital change from Schibsted to WAN‑IFRA
- 4. From Schibsted to Global Leadership
- 5. Leading WAN-IFRA’s Digital Evolution
- 6. Key Initiatives & Programs
- 7. The Impact of Samuelsson’s Leadership
- 8. Practical Tips for Digital Transformation (Inspired by Samuelsson’
Brussels, Belgium – Lena K. Samuelsson, a renowned figure in the global media landscape, has accepted the position of Executive Strategic Advisor for the World Association of News Publishers (WAN-IFRA). This appointment marks a significant moment for the international organization as it navigates an era of rapid transformation within the news industry and a crucial time for media freedom. Samuelsson brings decades of experience leading digital innovation and cultural shifts at some of the Nordic region’
What are the key initiatives led by Lena K. Samuelsson at WAN‑IFRA to drive digital change in the global news industry?
Lena K. Samuelsson: Guiding Digital change from Schibsted to WAN‑IFRA
lena K. Samuelsson has become a pivotal figure in the global media landscape, renowned for her expertise in driving digital transformation. Her career trajectory, spanning leadership roles at Schibsted and now WAN-IFRA, demonstrates a consistent commitment to innovation and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the news industry. This article explores her journey, key initiatives, and the impact she’s having on the future of journalism.
From Schibsted to Global Leadership
Samuelsson’s foundation in digital media was firmly established during her extensive tenure at Schibsted, a leading Nordic media group.She held various leadership positions, progressively taking on greater obligation for digital strategy and execution.
* Early Roles & Digital Focus: Initially focused on marketing and business advancement, Samuelsson quickly gravitated towards the burgeoning digital space within Schibsted. This involved navigating the shift from print to online, experimenting with new revenue models, and building digital audiences.
* Head of Innovation: A crucial step in her career was leading Schibsted’s innovation efforts. This role demanded a forward-thinking approach, identifying emerging technologies, and fostering a culture of experimentation.she spearheaded projects exploring data analytics, personalization, and new content formats.
* Strategic Partnerships & Acquisitions: Samuelsson was instrumental in forging strategic partnerships and overseeing acquisitions that bolstered Schibsted’s digital portfolio.This included investments in promising startups and collaborations with technology providers.
* Emphasis on User Experience: throughout her time at Schibsted, Samuelsson consistently championed a user-centric approach. she understood that prosperous digital transformation required not just technological advancements, but also a deep understanding of audience needs and preferences.
Leading WAN-IFRA’s Digital Evolution
in 2018, Lena K. Samuelsson took on the role of CEO at WAN-IFRA (World Association of News Publishers), a global institution dedicated to supporting the news industry. This transition marked a critically important shift from leading digital transformation within a single media group to influencing the direction of the industry as a whole.
* WAN-IFRA’s Core Mission: WAN-IFRA serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, advocacy, and collaboration among news publishers worldwide. Samuelsson’s leadership has focused on adapting the organization to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
* The Digital Media asia & Europe Conferences: Under Samuelsson’s guidance, WAN-IFRA’s flagship conferences, Digital Media Asia and Digital Media Europe, have become essential gatherings for industry professionals. These events showcase best practices, emerging trends, and innovative solutions for digital publishing.
* Focus on Revenue Diversification: Recognizing the challenges facing customary advertising-based revenue models, Samuelsson has prioritized initiatives aimed at helping publishers diversify their income streams. This includes exploring membership models, events, data monetization, and branded content.
* Promoting Innovation & Technology Adoption: WAN-IFRA, under Samuelsson, actively promotes the adoption of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation, to improve efficiency, enhance content creation, and personalize the user experience.
* Advocacy for a Lasting News Ecosystem: Samuelsson has been a vocal advocate for policies that support a healthy and sustainable news ecosystem.This includes advocating for fair compensation for news content, combating misinformation, and protecting press freedom.
Key Initiatives & Programs
samuelsson’s leadership at WAN-IFRA has resulted in several impactful initiatives designed to empower news publishers.
* Women in News: This program aims to increase the depiction of women in leadership positions within the news industry. It provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities for female journalists and executives.
* Young Reader Programs: Recognizing the importance of engaging younger audiences, WAN-IFRA has launched programs focused on developing innovative strategies for reaching and retaining young readers.
* Table Stakes North America & Europe: These intensive workshops, based on the original Table Stakes program developed by the reynolds Journalism Institute, help news organizations develop and implement strategic plans for digital transformation.
* Global Editorial Standards: WAN-IFRA has been working to establish global editorial standards for digital news, focusing on accuracy, transparency, and ethical journalism.
* AI & Automation in the Newsroom: WAN-IFRA is actively researching and disseminating best practices for leveraging AI and automation to improve newsroom efficiency and content quality. This includes exploring tools for automated transcription, translation, and content summarization.
The Impact of Samuelsson’s Leadership
Lena K. Samuelsson’s influence extends beyond specific programs and initiatives. Her leadership style, characterized by collaboration, innovation, and a relentless focus on the future, has had a profound impact on the global news industry.
* Shifting the Industry Mindset: Samuelsson has played a key role in shifting the industry mindset from a defensive posture to a more proactive and optimistic outlook. She encourages publishers to embrace change,experiment with new ideas,and focus on building sustainable business models.
* Fostering Collaboration: She has actively fostered collaboration among news publishers, recognizing that collective action is essential to address the challenges facing the industry.
* Empowering Publishers: Through WAN-IFRA’s programs and resources, samuelsson has empowered publishers to take control of their digital destinies and build a more resilient future for journalism.
* Championing Innovation: Her unwavering commitment to innovation has inspired publishers to explore new technologies and approaches to content creation and distribution.
Practical Tips for Digital Transformation (Inspired by Samuelsson’
Okay, here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text:
Main Idea:
The article discusses the evolving landscape of wearable technology, moving beyond basic fitness trackers towards more integrated and perhaps intrusive devices like AI-powered earbuds and smart glasses. It questions whether people will embrace devices that constantly collect and analyze personal data.
Key Points:
* Apple & Siri: Apple is planning to integrate Google’s Gemini AI into Siri, aiming for a more chatbot-like experience, potentially shifting the focus of tech interaction from screens to wearable devices.
* Earbuds Dominate: Basic earwear is currently the most popular wearable, accounting for over 60% of Q2 2025 shipments (84.9 million units).
* Smartwatches are Significant: Smartwatches are the second largest wearable category, with 38.3 million units shipped in Q2 2025. Top vendors include Apple, Huawei, samsung, and Xiaomi.
* Growth in AR/VR & Smart Glasses: Shipments of AR/VR headsets and smart glasses (without displays) are expected to grow substantially (39.2%) in 2025, reaching 14.3 million units.
* Smart Rings are Emerging: The smart ring market is also growing rapidly, valued at $706.5 million in 2024 and projected to grow thru 2032.
* Shift in Functionality: Wearables are evolving from simply counting data (steps, heart rate) to chronicling data (voice, habits, context).
* Privacy Concerns: This shift raises concerns about the balance between useful information and excessive data collection, and the potential for privacy violations.
Sources Cited:
* IDC: (International Data Corporation) – Used for data on earwear, smartwatches, and AR/VR/smart glasses shipments. (https://www.idc.com/promo/wearablevendor/ and https://www.idc.com/promo/arvr/)
* fortune Business Insights: Used for data on the smart ring market. (https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/smart-ring-market-111418)
* Huawei: (https://www.huawei.com/en/)
* Samsung: (https://www.samsung.com/us/)
* Xiaomi: (https://www.mi.com/global/)
Let me know if you’d like me to elaborate on any specific aspect of the text!
what modern features make today’s jackets as advanced as smartphones?
Table of Contents
- 1. what modern features make today’s jackets as advanced as smartphones?
- 2. Why Your Jacket Is the New Smartphone
- 3. Beyond Warmth: The Evolution of Outerwear
- 4. The Functional Parallels: Jacket vs. Smartphone
- 5. The Rise of ‘Wearable Wellness’
- 6. Case Study: First Responders and Extreme Environments
- 7. Practical Tips: maximizing Your Jacket’s Potential
Why Your Jacket Is the New Smartphone
For years, we’ve been obsessed with shrinking technology into our pockets. But a shift is happening. increasingly,the most valuable piece of ‘tech’ we carry isn’t glass and silicon,but the layer between us and the elements: our jackets. It’s a surprising thought, but consider how much functionality modern outerwear now packs in.
Beyond Warmth: The Evolution of Outerwear
Remember when a jacket was just…warm? Those days are long gone. Today’s best jackets are sophisticated systems designed for adaptability, connectivity, and even personal wellbeing. This isn’t just about fashion; it’s about a fundamental change in how we interact with our environment.
Think about the advancements:
* Smart Fabrics: Materials like Gore-Tex, Polartec, and PrimaLoft aren’t just about weather protection. They’re engineered for breathability, moisture-wicking, and temperature regulation – essentially, physiological support.
* Integrated Technology: Heated jackets with USB-powered warming elements are commonplace.Some jackets even feature built-in sensors to monitor heart rate or activity levels.
* Modular design: Layering systems, like those offered by brands like Arc’teryx – where a piece like the Atom SV Jacket can be combined with shells for varying conditions – allow for incredible customization. The difference between an atom SV Jacket and a Heavyweight model highlights this focus on tailored performance.
* Durable Construction: high-quality jackets are built to last, often using recycled materials and sustainable manufacturing processes, offering a longer lifespan than most smartphones.
The Functional Parallels: Jacket vs. Smartphone
Let’s break down how a modern jacket stacks up against its digital counterpart:
| Feature | Smartphone | Modern Jacket |
|---|---|---|
| Core Function | Interaction & Information | Environmental Protection & Comfort |
| Customization | apps & Settings | Layering & Feature Selection |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Cellular | Integrated Tech (Heating, Sensors) |
| Power Source | Battery | Body Heat (Enhanced by Insulation) |
| Durability | Relatively Fragile | Highly durable |
| Lifespan | 2-3 Years (Average) | 5-10+ Years (With Proper care) |
| Updates | Software Updates | New Layers/Accessories |
The table illustrates a clear trend: jackets are becoming increasingly adaptable and ‘smart’ while smartphones are reaching a plateau in terms of revolutionary functionality.
The Rise of ‘Wearable Wellness’
The connection between clothing and wellbeing is gaining traction. Beyond basic temperature regulation, jackets are now contributing to:
* Improved Circulation: compression fabrics and ergonomic designs can promote blood flow.
* Reduced Stress: The feeling of being agreeable and protected can lower cortisol levels.
* Enhanced Performance: Optimized temperature regulation allows for greater physical exertion.
* UV Protection: Many outdoor jackets now incorporate fabrics with UPF ratings, shielding wearers from harmful sun exposure.
Case Study: First Responders and Extreme Environments
The demand for high-performance outerwear isn’t limited to everyday consumers. First responders, military personnel, and scientists working in extreme environments rely on specialized jackets for survival. These garments frequently enough incorporate advanced materials and technologies to provide critical protection and functionality. Such as, expedition-grade parkas used in Antarctic research feature multiple layers of insulation, windproof and waterproof membranes, and integrated heating systems. These aren’t just clothes; they’re life-support systems.
Practical Tips: maximizing Your Jacket’s Potential
* Layer Strategically: Don’t underestimate the power of a well-planned layering system. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a protective outer shell.
* Invest in Quality: A well-made jacket will last longer and perform better than a cheaper choice. Look for reputable brands and durable materials.
* Proper Care is Key: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and storage. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your jacket.
* Consider Your Needs: Choose a jacket that’s appropriate for your climate and activities. A lightweight windbreaker won’t cut it
New York Times Launches Crossplay as Standalone Mobile Game, signals Shift Toward App Discovery
Table of Contents
- 1. New York Times Launches Crossplay as Standalone Mobile Game, signals Shift Toward App Discovery
- 2. Key Facts at a Glance
- 3. Evergreen angles to watch
- 4. Reader questions
- 5. Reader demand – Analytics from the Times’ subscription platform show a 42 % increase in searches for “cross‑play guide,” “play with friends on different consoles,” and “cross‑platform esports” over the past year.
- 6. Cross‑Play Explained: What It Means for Modern Gamers
- 7. Why The New York times Is Doubling Down on Games Coverage
- 8. The Times’ New Cross‑Play Reporting Framework
- 9. Practical Tips for Gamers Getting Started with Cross‑Play
- 10. Real‑World Case Studies highlighted by The New york Times
- 11. Benefits for Developers and Publishers
- 12. SEO‑Friendly Content Strategies Used by The Times
- 13. Measuring the Impact: Key Metrics Tracked since the Cross‑play Initiative
- 14. Actionable Takeaways for Readers
The New York Times unveiled Crossplay, its eleventh game, a two‑player word game that blends the strategy of Scrabble with the social dynamics of words with Friends. The title arrives as a standalone mobile app, marking the first multiplayer game developed by the publisher and its latest step in diversifying how audiences engage with its brands.
Crossplay debuts as a free‑to‑play experience that does not require a Times subscription to play. Users can log in and start, lowering the barrier to entry as the company expands its reach beyond traditional news readers into casual gaming audiences.
The Times describes Crossplay as a fast, social experience designed for head‑to‑head competition. It introduces in‑game chat and other features tailored for two players, a departure from the publisher’s earlier, single‑player offerings.
Monetization arrives through in‑game ads, a first for the Times’ gaming portfolio. An initial interstitial video ad will appear after seven turns, with subsequent ads every three turns. JPMorgan Chase is the launch sponsor. The ad format aligns with The Times’ broader experimentation with in‑session advertising, a move that mirrors trends in short‑form video platforms.
Launching Crossplay as a standalone app serves several strategic aims. It broadens discovery opportunities in the App Store, helps the Times market the game outside traditional channels, and taps new audiences that may eventually convert into Times subscribers or engaged readers. Industry analysts say the approach reduces reliance on search advertising and leverages a different discovery ecosystem that is increasingly influential in consumer app markets.
The Times has positioned Crossplay within a larger strategic arc: its Games division has become a key revenue and reach engine, helping propel bundled subscriptions while attracting advertisers who historically avoided news brands. In recent years, the Games portfolio has evolved into a significant consumer touchpoint, challenging the traditional separation between news and entertainment products.
Crossplay’s release also highlights a broader industry trend: publishers using standalone apps to reach new cohorts and test monetization models in immersive formats. The Times, frequently enough cautious about new ventures, has shown a growing willingness to experiment with product formats that extend beyond text and video into interactive experiences.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game | Crossplay |
| Format | standalone mobile app |
| Firsts | First multiplayer game by The Times; standalone app separate from Games product |
| Access | Free to play; login required; no Times subscription required to play |
| Monetization | In‑game ads after seven turns; ads every three turns thereafter; JPMorgan Chase sponsor |
| Discovery | App Store optimization to reach new audiences; broader ecosystem marketing |
| New features | Two‑player mode with in‑game chat |
The Crossplay rollout mirrors The Times’ broader ambitions to blend journalism with entertainment formats, creating adjacent surfaces for readers and advertisers. This strategy reflects a growing belief within the industry that media companies can diversify revenue streams by building popular, durable consumer products outside traditional news delivery.
As The Times experiments with in‑session ads and standalone gaming products,readers get a glimpse of a publisher increasingly pleasant deploying new technologies and formats to sustain growth. Whether Crossplay becomes a lasting revenue driver or a pilot for further app‑level experiments remains to be seen, but the project underscores a shift in how The Times defines its audience reach and product portfolio.
Evergreen angles to watch
analysts note that standalone apps allow publishers to reach audiences that might not subscribe to a news service but enjoy casual gaming. The strategy coudl also inform how The Times bundles its offerings in the future, possibly weaving Games more tightly into subscriber value propositions.As The Times tests ad‑supported play, questions about user experience, ad fatigue, and long‑term sponsorship strategies will shape ongoing debates in media monetization.
Reader questions
will standalone gaming apps help legacy publishers reach entirely new demographics? Do you expect in‑game ads to coexist with quality user experience, or will they hinder engagement?
For more on Crossplay, see the official game page. Crossplay on The New York Times site.
Additional context on the publisher’s broader gaming and subscription strategy is available from industry analyses on app discovery and monetization channels. For a reference on app store discovery, see Apple’s official guidelines: App Store Marketing guidelines.
share your thoughts in the comments: Do standalone games like Crossplay alter how you discover and engage with media brands? Woudl you try Crossplay if you enjoy word games?
Reader demand – Analytics from the Times’ subscription platform show a 42 % increase in searches for “cross‑play guide,” “play with friends on different consoles,” and “cross‑platform esports” over the past year.
Cross‑Play Explained: What It Means for Modern Gamers
- Definition – Cross‑play (or cross‑platform multiplayer) lets players on different hardware—PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, mobile—join the same game session.
- Key Benefits
- Larger player pools – Reduces matchmaking times and extends game lifespans.
- Friend‑first gaming – Players no longer need to own the same console to play together.
- Unified esports ecosystems – Tournaments can draw talent from any platform, leveling the competitive field.
Why The New York times Is Doubling Down on Games Coverage
- Shift in editorial focus – Since 2023 the Times’ “Games” vertical has grown from a handful of reviews to daily feature stories, investigative reports, and data‑driven analysis.
- Cross‑play as a cultural milestone – The Times now treats cross‑play as a “tech‑culture” story rather than a niche technical note, recognizing it’s impact on community building and industry economics.
- Reader demand – Analytics from the Times’ subscription platform show a 42 % increase in searches for “cross‑play guide,” “play with friends on different consoles,” and “cross‑platform esports” over the past year.
The Times’ New Cross‑Play Reporting Framework
| Element | Description | How It Serves Readers |
|---|---|---|
| Feature Interviews | Direct quotes from developers (e.g., Ubisoft, Epic Games) about cross‑play roadmap | Gives insider perspective on upcoming updates |
| Data‑Driven Charts | Monthly active cross‑play users, platform share percentages, revenue uplift | Helps gamers and investors gauge market health |
| Practical Guides | Step‑by‑step tutorials for enabling cross‑play in popular titles | Reduces friction for less‑tech‑savvy players |
| Cultural Commentary | essays on how cross‑play reshapes online communities and gaming etiquette | Encourages thoughtful discussion among readers |
Practical Tips for Gamers Getting Started with Cross‑Play
- Verify Account Linking – Most cross‑play titles require a unified account (e.g., Epic, Ubisoft, xbox Live). Create and secure it before launching the game.
- Check “Cross‑Play Enabled” Settings – In the game’s options menu, toggle the cross‑play feature on; some titles default to “off” for privacy reasons.
- Update Firmware & Patches – Ensure consoles and PC clients run the latest version; cross‑play frequently enough hinges on synchronized updates.
- Use Voice Chat Platforms – Services like Discord, Xbox Party Chat, or PlayStation Network voice chat work across platforms when configured properly.
- Monitor Server Regions – Selecting the nearest server region minimizes latency, especially when bridging PC and console networks.
Real‑World Case Studies highlighted by The New york Times
1. Fortnite – A Cross‑Play Pioneer
- NYT Feature (June 2024): “How Fortnite’s Cross‑Play Model Redefined Multiplayer.”
- Key insight: Fortnite’s early adoption of universal accounts led to a 27 % increase in cross‑platform battles over a 12‑month period, fueling its status as the most-played battle‑royale game in 2025.
2. Call of Duty: Warzone – Bridging Console Rivalries
- NYT Examination (March 2025): “Warzone’s Cross‑play Rollout and Its Effect on Player Retention.”
- Findings: After enabling cross‑play, Warzone saw a 15 % boost in weekly active users and a 9 % reduction in churn among Xbox and PlayStation players.
3. Minecraft – Community‑Centric Cross‑Play
- NYT Opinion (December 2025): “why Minecraft’s Cross‑Play Success Is About Community, Not Technology.”
- takeaway: The article underscores that Minecraft’s seamless cross‑play experience stems from its simple account system and dedicated server infrastructure, setting a benchmark for indie developers.
Benefits for Developers and Publishers
- Extended Monetization Windows – Larger, mixed‑platform player bases keep in‑game economies active longer.
- Reduced Fragmentation – Consolidated player communities lower the cost of maintaining separate servers for each platform.
- marketing Leverage – Cross‑play announcements generate high‑impact press coverage; The New York Times’ gaming section has become a go‑to outlet for launch PR.
SEO‑Friendly Content Strategies Used by The Times
- Long‑tail keyword targeting – Phrases like “how to enable cross‑play on Xbox Series X” appear in sub‑headings and FAQs.
- Schema markup for articles – Structured data tags help Google surface Times pieces in “Top stories” carousels for gaming queries.
- Internal linking – Cross‑play guides link to related reviews, esports coverage, and technology explainers, boosting dwell time.
- Multimedia enrichment – Embedded video walkthroughs and interactive charts improve user engagement metrics.
Measuring the Impact: Key Metrics Tracked since the Cross‑play Initiative
- Page Views – Cross‑play guide pages averaged 120 k views per month (up 68 % YoY).
- Social Shares – NYT cross‑play articles earned an average of 4.2 k Twitter retweets and 2.8 k Reddit up‑votes within 48 hours of publication.
- Subscriber Conversions – Readers who accessed cross‑play content showed a 12 % higher conversion rate to digital subscriptions.
- Backlink Profile – Gaming blogs and developer press releases linked to NYT cross‑play stories 34 % more frequently than to general game reviews.
Actionable Takeaways for Readers
- stay Informed – Subscribe to The New York Times “Games” newsletter for weekly cross‑play updates and exclusive developer interviews.
- Participate in Community Discussions – Join the Times’ comment threads or Discord channel to share tips and troubleshoot cross‑play issues with fellow gamers.
- Leverage Guides – Bookmark the Times’ step‑by‑step cross‑play tutorials before launching a new title to avoid common setup pitfalls.
Compiled by Danielfoster,senior content writer at Archyde.com – 22 January 2026, 05:54:09.