Cross-device tracking, also known as cross-device targeting or omnichannel marketing, refers to the process of tracking and connecting user behavior across multiple devices such as smartphones, desktops, laptops, tablets, and more. This is made possible through the use of a device graph, which is a database that maps devices to specific users.
Cross-device tracking helps marketers gain a better understanding of their target audience by providing insights into their behavior across different devices. This information can then be used to create more targeted and personalized marketing campaigns.
Cross-device tracking relies on the use of cookies and device graphs. Cookies are small text files that are stored on a user's device and contain information about their browsing activity. Device graphs are databases that map different devices to specific users based on a variety of criteria such as IP address and device characteristics.
The benefits of cross-device tracking include improved targeting and personalization, increased ROI, more accurate attribution modeling, and better insights into customer behavior.
Common use cases for cross-device tracking include retargeting campaigns, cross-selling/up-selling initiatives, personalized messaging across different channels (e.g., email, social media), and more.
Yes, there are privacy concerns with cross-device tracking. To address these concerns, many companies have implemented privacy policies that outline how user data is collected and used.
Marketers can use cross-device targeting to deliver more relevant and personalized messaging to their target audience. This can be achieved through tactics such as retargeting, lookalike modeling, and more.
The future of cross-device tracking is likely to involve even more sophisticated technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence. These tools will enable marketers to gain even deeper insights into customer behavior and deliver even more personalized experiences.