Shoppable Ad Template

A new ad type designed for streaming platforms that allows viewers to browse products directly within the app.

Role: UX Designer

Timeline: 4 Months

Team: UX Researchers, Product Managers

Background

Hulu has been around since 2008 and has offered ad-supported content for nearly as long. Over the years, Hulu has developed a wide range of ad formats to serve both viewers and advertisers. These include:

  • 30–45 second video ads

  • Interactive ads where viewers choose 1 of 3 options

  • Pause ads that appear when content is paused

Problem Statement

The one thing missing was a true shoppable ad—one that let us track purchases and measure real revenue impact.

We already offered QR code ads that drove users to an advertiser’s site (pictured here), but they only provided click-through data, not conversion or purchase insights.

Why tracking metrics is important

  • Advertisers can see which products viewers actually buy

  • Shopping data helps us better market this ad format

  • Products can be tied to the content being watched

  • Enables more personalized, interest-based ad targeting

  • Justifies the higher cost of interactive ads by showing real value