We powered up our technology to analyze the performance of Super Bowl 50 ads on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. Our data scientists identified several key insights around what resonated most with viewers, and how a sophisticated online video strategy can help advertisers maximize their big game TV investment. Check out the top cross-platform findings, and an infographic below. All data was collected from the time a brand uploaded official video ad content, to the end of the game (Feb. 7, 10:30 p.m. EST).
- In aggregate, Super Bowl 50 Ads on YouTube generated 2.6x the total views and 38% more total shares than Super Bowl 49 Ads.
- Release strategy matters. Brands that shared preview or teaser ads on YouTube as part of their pre-game content strategy earned significantly more views and shares on average than brands that opted to make their big reveal during the game.
- The top Super Bowl ad on YouTube generated 4.4 million more total views than the top Super Bowl ad on Facebook.
- Hyundai’s The Chase ad won the Super Bowl on YouTube measured by total views; second place went to Pokemon, and third place went to MINI USA.
- Inspirational ads resonated the most with viewers on YouTube, earning the top spot across all metrics — views, likes, comments, shares, engagements, and dislikes.
- The gaming industry emerged victorious, generating the most YouTube views and shares, followed by the auto industry for views and the host (NFL) for shares.
- Through the big game, Food industry ads (led by Doritos) generated 75% of Facebook chatter, followed by Automotive industry ads.
- Honda overwhelmingly generated the most mentions on Instagram through the Super Bowl, followed by Bud Light and Acura.
