Relevance over noise: How Bayer and YOC create brand campaigns with added value using an integrated cough-AI

Berlin, April 2026 – Bayer Vital and the ad tech company YOC AG have implemented a data- and AI-driven campaign and delivered it via the VIS.X® platform, offering users genuine added value and achieving significant results across the entire marketing funnel.

At the heart of the campaign is an AI-based cough test that distinguishes between dry and wet coughs using a short audio signal. The software, which is certified as a medical device, enables an evidence-based assessment of symptoms based on cough sounds. Within the ad format, users receive a direct, personalized recommendation from the Phytohustil® product range of cough relievers and expectorants without having to register.

Instead of relying on classical reach-driven advertising strategies, Bayer intentionally opted for a content-driven approach: The Cough test was integrated into an interactive advertising solution in collaboration with YOC and deployed as part of an high-impact campaign via the VIS.X® platform. In a highly competitive market, Bayer was thus able to effectively cut through the advertising clutter with relevant content and innovative advertising formats.

The campaign was delivered using the high-impact ad format YOC Mystery Ad® , which actively engages users and, through the use of the Cough Checker, provides immediate value to users even while they are viewing the ad. YOC’s targeting solution, VIS.X® Identity Intelligence, ensured that the campaign was delivered specifically to target groups who had shown a demonstrable interest in the topic of coughs and colds.

„Our goal was to develop a unique approach that would set our product apart from the competition through its relevance. And it’s working: The results show a significant impact on brand metrics and purchase intent.“, sagt Jusof Ellinger, Media Lead GER & AT bei Bayer Vital.

The results emphasize the success of this strategy: Engagement increased by 47 percent, while an attention score of 84 out of 100 points demonstrates above-average attention from users who were exposed to the campaign. Brand metrics also saw a significant increase: brand recall was 39 percentage points higher, product preference rose by 40 percentage points, and purchase intent increased by 29 percentage points compared to the control group of individuals who had no exposure to the ad.

„When brands succeed in offering users tangible value and intelligently combining it with attention-grabbing formats and technology, they create a measurable impact across the entire marketing funnel”, sagt Dirk Kraus, CEO der YOC AG. “ That is precisely where the future of the open web lies—as a space for transparent, effective, and user-centered brand communication.”

ABOUT YOC

YOC is a technology company that develops software for the digital advertising market. With the help of our programmatic trading platform VIS.X®, we enable an optimal advertising experience for advertisers, publishers, and users of the internet and mobile applications. By using VIS.X® and YOC’s attention-grabbing ad formats, advertisers are able to increase attention for their brand and products in connection with high-quality advertising inventory. Renowned premium publishers offer a global media reach and benefit from the high monetization of our VIS.X® platform. The company has been active since 2001 and has been listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since 2009.

PR CONTACT

Jörg Pensberg Senior Marketing und Communications Manager schoesslers GmbH

+49 151 728 58786 joerg.pensberg@schoesslers.com yoc@schoesslers.com