Social Platform Newsletter 5-25
MAY 2025 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Social platforms are always evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with new features and updates. This monthly newsletter will help keep you in the loop so you can adjust your strategy and maximize your social presence. See below for what’s new this month!
HIGH LEVEL UPDATES TO NOTE:
Instagram launched its new video creation app, Edits. This tool helps creators track ideas in one place, manage and edit projects, and export watermark-free content without leaving the app. It also optimizes content using an inspiration feed of Reels with trending audio and performance insights to show creators what’s working.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Use ‘Trial Reels’ to test content and experiment with new ideas.
Meta introduces new ad features for Facebook, Instagram, and Threads at NewFronts 2025. The new features include Reels trending ads, an AI-powered tool for real-time insights, and a Creator Marketplace API to streamline brand-creator collaborations.
Meta enhances ad creation with a new “URL Parameters” section and automatic UTM suggestions. The update enables advertisers to easily apply dynamic tracking parameters for more accurate campaign analytics and source attribution in Google Analytics.
Meta launches AI-powered “Translate Text” feature for advertisers. The feature enables automatic translation of ad headlines and primary text into multiple languages. Disabled by default, the feature has the capability to broaden audience reach beyond preset language settings, but Meta advises advertisers to carefully review each translation.
LinkedIn introduces secondary names for enhanced profile verification. Users can now display their ID name as an additional name for verification if their LinkedIn name differs from their legal name. The secondary name will be shown in parentheses next to the original LinkedIn username.
LinkedIn has launched a new video ad solution, BrandLink. Brands can now align their ads with top creators and publishers, sponsor exclusive shows, and run preroll ads—offering multilingual options for global targeting and driving higher video completion rates. This initiative aims to boost advertising ROI for B2B marketers as video becomes an increasingly effective format on the platform.
LinkedIn updates post embed feature with cleaner design and video previews. Users can now choose to embed a full post, a shortened version, or just the video, but embedding multi-photo posts or reposts with commentary is not currently supported.
LinkedIn has added an AI job search. A new AI tool powers a more personalized job search on the platform, by using large language models to rank jobs based on the user’s intent.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Read Elmo’s LinkedIn post about being laid off.
LinkedIn shared its Grad Guide 2025.
Threads
Threads announces expanded advertising initiatives. In an attempt to look more like their competitor X, Threads announced that a “small number” of advertisers will test 19:9 or 1:1 video ad creative to appear between pieces of organic content.
Threads will start telling users when their posts are demoted. Meta will be adding an Account Status feature, as seen on Instagram and Facebook, to Threads. This will allow users to view if the company has removed a post, made it less visible in other users’ feeds, or deemed it un-recommendable by Meta.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Internal Meta deck reveals early strategy for Threads.
Threads.net becomes Threads.com.
TikTok
TikTok expands ad placement options. TikTok rolled out new tools for its Pulse Plus offering, allowing brands to place their ads next to curated, high-performing content. The platform has also added more placement options for Pulse Core users, now allowing for custom lineups, which leverage generative AI for tailored content.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Trump may extend the TikTok sell-off deadline once again.
TikTok pledges $1M in ad credits for U.S. small businesses.
YouTube
Blurred thumbnail testing. Users will have the option of having thumbnails blurred, while video title, channel name, and description will remain visible.
YouTube introduces bumper +15 sec non-skippable ad format for advertisers. Google Ads has launched a beta format called “Bumpers + 15 Seconds,” combining 6-second Bumper Ads with 7-15 second non-skippable ads in one ad group. It automatically optimizes delivery between the two to improve reach and ad recall.
YouTube updates editing feature and ad system. YouTube is removing the “revert to original” feature in its Studio editor, so creators should download videos before editing or use Google Takeout to keep originals. Midroll ads now include a feedback system and allow both manual and automatic ad slots, with automatic additions unless creators opt out in the earn tab before the deadline.
WHAT’S TRENDING
YouTube takes action against fake AI-generated movie trailers.
X
X tests expanded DM functionality, including full encryption and file sharing. The platform continues to revamp DMs in an attempt to compete with dedicated messaging apps. While DM encryption is currently only available for premium subscribers, X is working to expand encryption, as well as the ability to delete messages. Additionally, they are working on the ability to delete messages in the chat.
X launches the NBA Portal. The new portal offers real-time stats, standings, a Feed Tab with trending content, and a dedicated hub for fan conversations during the postseason.
WHAT’S TRENDING
The hunt for the next Twitter: all the news about alternative social media platforms.
The Social Security Administration will be using X to communicate moving forward.
Pinterest is taking a new step in transparency with Gen AI labels. When users click on an image Pin, they will see an “AI modified” label if the image has been modified or generated using AI.
Pinterest is introducing new visual search features. The update allows users to interact with image Pins more intuitively to discover, refine, and shop the ideas that match their tastes.
WHAT’S TRENDING
The Pinterest Annual Wedding Trends Report is here.
Social Platform Newsletter 4-25
APRIL 2025 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Social platforms are always evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with new features and updates. This monthly newsletter will help keep you in the loop so you can adjust your strategy and maximize your social presence. See below for what’s new this month!
HIGH LEVEL UPDATES TO NOTE:
Instagram shares how creators can break through the clutter. The full-length guide includes tips on improving ranking and engagement. The main takeaways:
• Post regularly
• Create content that can stand on its own
• Amplify your content with audio
• Keep experimenting
• Embrace unpredictability
Instagram adds double-speed playback for Reels. Instagram has rolled out a much-requested feature for Reels, with users now able to watch its short video clips at 2x speed if they choose.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Instagram has been rolling out more features using AI.
Facebook introduces a new “Friends” tab. The tab allows users to view content exclusively from their friends, including posts, stories, and Reels, without additional recommended content. This feature aims to enhance personal connections and is initially available in the U.S. and Canada.
Testing begins for Community Notes. Meta is initiating tests for Community Notes on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in the U.S., allowing users to collaboratively add context to posts, aiming to reduce bias compared to the previous thirdparty fact-checking system. Initially, notes won’t be publicly visible as the system undergoes testing to ensure proper functionality.
Meta introduces branding definition in Ads Manager for fonts, colors, and logos. Meta has introduced a new branding definition feature in Ads Manager, allowing advertisers to upload logos, select brand colors, and choose fonts to ensure AI-generated creative aligns with their branding. While this update improves consistency and reduces brand risk, limitations such as minimal control over logo placement and text background colors remain.
Meta launches ratings and reviews feature for Facebook Ads. Meta has introduced a feature that displays customer ratings and reviews directly on Facebook ads, leveraging social proof to boost consumer confidence. Businesses can manage these reviews through the Meta Business Suite and customize their visibility, such as only showing ratings above four stars.
LinkedIn adds Calendly integration. LinkedIn now allows Premium users to integrate Calendly into their profiles with a customizable “Book an appointment” CTA button, making it easier for visitors to schedule meetings directly.
Introducing Campaign Manager improvements. LinkedIn updated its Campaign Manager with new tools including easier ad planning, performance tracking, and AI-powered tips to help marketers run campaigns more efficiently.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn has launched a new in-app puzzle game called Zip.
Threads
Threads introduces Topic Tags. Users can now add up to ten topics on their profile. This can lead to increased views with posts that have tagged topics, follower only replies, and an enhanced video player. Threads also provides suggestions for trending topics.
The platform adds a new management option. The new option allows users to restrict replies and quote posts to followers.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Threads and X are working together to allow users to easily follow the same creators on both platforms.
TikTok
TikTok introduces a new tool, Security Checkup. The tool provides an all-inone security dashboard to review and update account security settings easily. Users now have a centralized place to make it easier to protect their accounts from hacking and unauthorized access. Security Checkup emphasizes proactive monitoring, tailored for younger users.
TikTok launches AMBER alerts for American users. In partnership with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), the platform has officially integrated AMBER alerts into its app to assist in locating missing children. The platform also donated advertising credits to NCMEC to support its messaging. This move highlights TikTok’s growing efforts around youth safety.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Trump delayed the TikTok ban, extending the sales deadline by another 75 days.
YouTube
YouTube introduces plan for new video editor. An improved editing tool is coming to YouTube, where users soon will be able to make precise edits, rearrange clips, and add text or music with a timeline view.
Automatic Beat syncing feature coming to the platform. Users will be able to automatically match their videos to the rhythm of their selected song, which will take away the need for manual syncing.
Introducing templates on YouTube. The platform will now allow users to choose from a template when uploading multiple videos or photos. Creators of the templates will also be attributed when their template is being used.
WHAT’S TRENDING
YouTube shorts on the rise.
X
X now lets you query Grok by mentioning it in replies. X is expanding access to xAI’s Grok model, allowing users to mention Grok in replies to ask questions about posts, in addition to existing access methods via sidebar and post buttons. This enhancement builds upon Grok’s previous capabilities, which includes explaining post text and images through its image understanding feature.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Elon Musk’s xAI to acquire his X social media platform.
X outage—again: Thousands briefly report issues with Elon Musk’s platform.
Introducing Reddit x Google Gemini. Reddit is integrating Google Gemini to its current AI search, Reddit Answers. This feature is meant to increase search relevance and provide Reddit conversation summaries.
Reddit debuts new Ad tools for SMB. In an attempt to enhance retail advertising performance for small to medium businesses on Reddit, advertisers can import campaign assets and parameters from Meta Ads Manager for a faster ad launch.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Pinterest invites Coachella fans to remix their style with top festival trends for 2025.
Social Platform Newsletter 3-25
MARCH 2025 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Social platforms are always evolving, and it can be hard to keep up with new features and updates. This monthly newsletter will help keep you in the loop so you can adjust your strategy and maximize your social presence. See below for what’s new this month!
HIGH LEVEL UPDATES TO NOTE:
Facebook Live updates its video storage policy. Any new Facebook Live broadcasts will only be stored for 30 days. Users can download their old live videos using new tools before they are gradually deleted, and they have the option to postpone deletion for an additional six months if needed.
Meta expands Google analytics integration to more advertisers. Meta is providing early access to updates that aim to improve campaign performance. By connecting Google Analytics to their Meta accounts, advertisers can bridge the gap between the platforms and gain a better understanding of their campaign results.
Meta updates Leads and Sales campaign setup flow to prioritize AI-driven targeting. Meta’s Advantage+ options are now enabled by default. Advertisers can still access manual targeting options in the ad set level, but they are less obvious and require extra steps to implement.
LinkedIn is rolling out comment impression counts. This new feature allows users to see how many people have viewed their comment.
The platform is testing a new feed option. The LinkedIn app now displays updates exclusively from a user’s direct connections, aiming to enhance engagement by focusing on content from immediate networks.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn opens new experience center in London.
The importance of human connection in AI content.
TikTok
TiKTok’s desktop version has a new look. To keep up with YouTube and Twitch, the platform added features such as a modular layout, a new Explore tab, a new For You feed, a collection feature that organizes videos into custom categories, live game streaming, and a floating player.
The platform will replace its Creative Center with a new platform called “TikTok One.” The update will provide a more centralized home for all of TikTok’s creative tools, including analytics, campaign creation, and Creative Challenges.
WHAT’S TRENDING
e.l.f Cosmetics channels telenovelas for TikTok and Instagram series.
YouTube
YouTube launches ‘Premium Lite’ as lower-cost subscription option. The new $7.99-a-month plan offers ad-free viewing on most videos but excludes music and some additional features like offline download and background playback.
WHAT’S TRENDING
YouTube is tightening its policies on gambling-related content to enhance user protection.
YouTube gets exemption from Australia’s landmark child social media ban.
X
X launches two new AI-powered advertising tools using its Grok AI system. “Prefill with Grok” generates draft ad copy, selects images, and suggests callto-action headlines based on a website URL, while “Analyze Campaign with Grok” reviews active campaigns, identifies trends, and provides data insights for optimization.
WHAT’S TRENDING
X shares new data on Gen Z users.
X is no longer relevant for public information officers.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Food-related content is surging and and driving users back to the platform.
Social Platform Newsletter 2-25
FEBRUARY 2025 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
In our latest social newsletter, we provide a recap on how Meta is enhancing transparency with AI labels for Ads products.
HIGH LEVEL UPDATES TO NOTE:
Instagram has introduced longer Reels. The platform now allows users to create Reels up to three minutes long, increased from 90 seconds.
Add music to your profile. Users can now add a 30-second music clip to their profile page for increased personalization.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Instagram recommends longer reels in Explore.
Meta enhances transparency with AI labels for Ads products. Meta is implementing a new AI labeling system for advertisements that will disclose when generative AI tools have been used to create or significantly edit ad content. The labels will appear next to the “Sponsored” tag and will specifically highlight ads that include AI-generated photorealistic humans or have undergone substantial AI-driven modifications.
Meta announces changes to default inventory filter settings for in-content ads. Effective February 24, 2025, Meta will change the default inventory filter setting for in-content ads from “Moderate” to “Expanded,” affecting Facebook in-stream video, Facebook Reels, and the Meta Audience Network. This adjustment allows ads to appear alongside sensitive content such as tragedy, social issues, objectionable activity, and strong language.
Meta introduces Messenger integration for instant form leads. Meta has introduced a new feature in lead ads that allows businesses to connect with leads via Messenger immediately after form submission. Upon user consent, a Messenger conversation is initiated, including the lead’s contact information, facilitating prompt communication.
LinkedIn has updated its video display. The platform is testing a new feature that displays larger video posts in the main feed, with rounded corners to make them stand out. This update aligns with the platform’s focus on video content, which has seen a 36% usage growth in its TikTok-like immersive video feed this year.
LinkedIn expands its news banner test. The mobile app banner displays rotating headlines of trending stories curated by its editorial team above the main feed.
TikTok
TikTok launches AI-powered video editor with advanced features. The video editor tool in TikTok has recently undergone major updates to simplify video editing on the Ads Manager Platform. Accessed through the “Tools” tab, users can now use advanced features such as digital avatars, narration with auto-captions, one-click translation with voiceovers, and AI-generated soundtracks, improving efficiency and increasing engagement.
YouTube
YouTube has introduced “Communities.” Using this dedicated space, creators and viewers can discuss content, share fan art, and post polls to provide an alternative to Discord for fan engagement.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Warner Brothers quietly begins uploading catalog to YouTube for free.
Most-watched Super Bowl ads from 2025 end up on YouTube Top 10.
X
Elon Musk’s X announces “first of many” big updates for X Money this year. X is preparing to launch X Money in Q1 2025, marking a significant step towards becoming an “everything app.” Through a partnership with Visa, X Money will offer secure instant wallet funding, peer-to-peer payments, and the ability to transfer funds to bank accounts. This financial service aligns with Musk’s long-standing vision of creating a comprehensive platform where users can manage their entire financial ecosystem, potentially starting with supporting X platform creators.
X to prioritize informative and entertaining content in algorithm overhaul. Elon Musk announced an upcoming algorithm update for X aimed at prioritizing informative and entertaining content while maximizing “unregretted userseconds.” The changes will focus on promoting more positive and engaging content, and X is developing tools to give users greater control over their content feeds. Musk also highlighted improvements to the platform’s “Mute Words” feature to help users customize their experience.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Why leaving X can be a tricky decision for brands.
A new update restricts banned Redditors from editing their posts or comments. If the ban is temporary, they’ll be able to edit their content once their account is reinstated. Users will still be able to delete their content while banned.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Part of Reddit community is banned from using the platform, due to statements regarding Elon Musk’s employees.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Pinterest unveils “Tailored” Black History Month campaign: A tribute to Black fashion.
Social Platform Newsletter 1-25
JANUARY 2025 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
In our latest social newsletter, we provide a recap on the significant changes Meta has made to its content moderation policies and why they decided to end fact-checking.
A full list of changes coming to Instagram in 2025. Tech giant Meta has spent months tinkering with the social media app, quietly testing new functions before rolling them out in updates. Story Highlights are moving to a dedicated tab on user profiles, and the platform is also introducing “trial reels.” Rather than sharing with your followers or appearing on the Reels tab, these reels are only visible to a handful of random users.
Instagram updates profile grid with vertical-aligned thumbnails. This presentation style, which Instagram has been experimenting with for months, is more aligned with Reels, and incidentally, TikTok, which Instagram is trying to set itself up as a replacement for. And it’s also, according to Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, more suited to how the majority of people now use the app.
Significant changes to Meta’s content moderation policies. With the stated goals of enhanced free expression and reduced errors, the company plans to replace its third-party fact-checking program with a community-driven system called Community Notes, similar to the feature used by X.
Meta introduces CRM event testing tool for conversions API. The new tool enables advertisers to verify CRM event tracking through the ‘Test events’ feature within Data Sources. This enhancement aims to streamline the validation process of Conversions API implementations, ensuring accurate tracking for CRM-based lead generation campaigns.
Meta introduces lead quality labels for customer list upload. Advertisers can now label leads during customer list uploads. Leads can be categorized into Qualified Leads, Disqualified Leads, and Customers. This enhancement aims to improve ad delivery by providing Meta with data to optimize audience targeting, potentially increasing campaign effectiveness.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Here’s why Meta ended fact-checking, according to experts.
LinkedIn tests larger in-stream video display. LinkedIn is testing a new, larger video display format in its main feed with rounded corners, designed to make video posts more prominent, especially on mobile.
Introducing paid boosting for personal updates. Some individual users are now able to pay to boost their personal posts, expanding the existing “Boost” option beyond business page updates to help professionals increase their visibility and build their personal brand.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn’s Agentic era.
TikTok
Trump signs promised executive action to delay TikTok ban for 75 days. The action directs the US Justice Department not to enforce the Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which passed with broad bipartisan support in Congress and was signed in April by former President Joe Biden. The law required that starting January 19, TikTok be banned in the United States unless it sells to a buyer from America or one of its allies.
The TikTok ban: A guide for brands.
X
Grok by xAI unveils updates for personalized experience on X. Grok, the AI assistant by xAI for X, is set to receive updates aimed at enhancing personalization and interactivity based on user interactions without requiring separate memory features. Upcoming enhancements include a new “Grok Personalization” settings section for Android users, follow-up suggestions on posts, and the ability to upload text files, all designed to create a more tailored and versatile experience on the platform.
Musk announces algorithm changes for X. Elon Musk has announced upcoming algorithm changes for the social media platform, aiming to prioritize engaging and valuable content while addressing the prevalence of negativity in user feeds. These modifications will also introduce features allowing users to dynamically customize their content feeds, enhancing their overall experience on the platform.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Elon Musk’s X to launch X Money payment platform.
What does the X exodus to Bluesky mean for journalism?
New features, AI integrations, and enhanced user experience. In 2024, Reddit introduced a host of new features, AI integrations, and policy updates, further solidifying its place in the social media landscape. Here’s a look at the key announcements and developments throughout the year.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Live updates on the L.A. fires.
Social Platform Newsletter 12-24
DECEMBER 2024 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Reflect on all the social trends that happened this past year! In our latest social newsletter, we provide a recap on the social trends that emerged this past year and discuss what to expect for 2025.
HIGH LEVEL UPDATES TO NOTE:
Instagram is removing the option to follow hashtags. To counter spam and improve content relevance, Instagram is removing the ability to follow hashtags. Spammers have targeted trending hashtags, adding to irrelevant posts in order to get more reach. Hashtags will still remain searchable by users.
Deepen friendships in DMs with new Nicknames feature. Instagram announces a new way to customize DMs—setting nicknames in DM chats.
Instagram adds collage feature to Stories. A new option allows users to select multiple images from their camera roll to create a collage image. This feature is more flexible than the previous layout option, and aligns with Meta’s strategic approach of copying popular features from one app to the next.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Meta expands penalty avoidance education to Instagram creators.
Introducing new features for Messenger calling. Facebook has introduced AI backgrounds, HD video calls, noise suppression, and more to enhance the calling experience.
Meta Ads introduces a new sharing feature. Meta Ads has introduced Quick Views; a feature that allows users to create, edit, and share customized ad reporting views. Users can configure and share various aspects of their view, including view name, description, columns, sorting, attribution settings, breakdowns, and filters.
Meta Ads introduces new templates for creative optimization. Meta Ads introduced Safe Zones; a template to streamline the creative optimization process by allowing advertisers to create a single design that fits multiple ad placements. This template features a central square safe zone, ensuring that key content is visible across different aspect ratios, thereby reducing the need for multiple versions of ads.
Facebook introduces a new tag for unedited images in stories. Meta is testing a new “No Edit” tag for Stories, allowing users to indicate that images have not been altered within the app, as a potential mark of authenticity.
WHAT’S TRENDING
What Meta saw on our platforms during 2024’s global elections.
LinkedIn introduces a rotating slideshow. Premium Business subscribers can now create a revolving slideshow for their profile banner images, enabling them to showcase multiple aspects of their professional brand in a dynamic and visually appealing way.
LinkedIn is retiring live audio events. LinkedIn is phasing out its dedicated live audio events feature, and will instead integrate audio capabilities into its existing event and meeting tools.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn adds ‘Open to Volunteer’ option.
TikTok
TikTok files emergency motion for injunction. On December 9th, the platform filed an emergency motion for an injunction to stop the TikTok ban from taking effect on January 19, 2025 until their appeal is heard by the US Supreme Court.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Year on TikTok 2024: A little creativity sparks a lot of impact.
TikTok Shop: A home for inspiration this holiday season.
Harnessing the power of TikTok this #GivingSzn to drive meaningful impact.
YouTube
YouTube TV to hike its price. YouTube TV announced a $10 increase to its base plan, bringing the monthly cost to $82.99. The price hike reflects rising content costs and operational expenses, continuing a trend of increasing prices since its 2017 launch at $35 per month.
YouTube adds a new auto-dubbing feature. YouTube’s new auto-dubbing feature allows creators to automatically offer videos in multiple languages. It supports dubbing between English, French, German, Hindi, and more.
New UI updates come on YouTube. The YouTube’s Android app is gaining a translucent bottom bar, marking a departure from the current solid-colored bottom bar, while the YouTube website is also gaining a similar tweak for the top bar.
WHAT’S TRENDING
BuzzFeed sells “Hot Ones” studio in $82 million deal.
X
X updates its terms of service. The revised terms allow Musk to use usergenerated content to train artificial intelligence, including tweets and images from private accounts. Users must consent to this use without compensation, and the platform reserves the right to alter or repurpose content while disclaiming responsibility for its accuracy.
X updates requirements for creator revenue share program. X’s creator revenue share scheme enables users to make money from their content, based on engagement with their posts from verified users. Originally, the program was based on ads shown to verified users within their post replies.
Social Platform Newsletter 11-24
NOVEMBER 2024 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Have you heard that LinkedIn has added lead gen objectives to boosted posts? In our latest social newsletter, we provide details on how businesses can optimize on this update by creating more effective campaigns that drive conversations directly from their content.
New profile cards launch globally. New updates to profile cards are here, aiming to connect people through Instagram instead of other platforms.
Instagram introduces WhatsApp stickers. As the WhatsApp user base expands, Instagram is adding WhatsApp stickers for Stories to help brands make stronger DM connections with followers.
WHAT’S TRENDING
More people are partnering with micro-influencers to increase engagement rate.
Instagram is launching a new education campaign to help protect teens from “sextortion” scams.
Meta ends its ad restriction period. On November 7th, Meta began allowing new ads about social issues, elections and politics in the United States. These ads require a “Paid for by” disclaimer.
Facebook launches a Gen Z-focused redesign. Facebook is trying to compete against other social platforms such as TikTok who have a higher percentage of Gen Z users. Facebook has redesigned its platform to include Local tabs, an algorithm-powered Explore tab and a more prominent Reels tab.
WHAT’S TRENDING
South Korea fines Meta $15 million for illegally collecting and sharing user data.
LinkedIn adds lead gen objective to boosted posts. Businesses can now create more effective campaigns that drive conversions directly from their content on the platform.
The platform is testing a new navigation bar. The new interface sets in-app navigation options at the top of the screen for greater accessibility.
“Top Voice” badges are leaving. Following complaints that many members used AI to earn the “Top Voice” badge–an honor supposedly signifying expertise and authority–LinkedIn is removing the feature.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn’s inaugural Work Change Snapshot report explores the evolving landscape of companies, jobs, skills and work dynamics.
Certain celebratory post templates are being retired.
TikTok
TikTok celebrates Cybersecurity Awareness Month. This month, TikTok is highlighting two important groups who contribute to their culture of online security: the researchers powering the HackerOne bug bounty program and the creators spreading cybersecurity knowledge on the platform.
TikTok announces new “Smart+” automated ad solution. With the holidays coming up, TikTok is working on more specific ad targets based on previous viewer data, in order to increase awareness of certain brands, events and sales.
WHAT’S TRENDING
MLS Season Pass on Apple TV and Major League Soccer to present ‘Player Spotlight: Messi’ exclusively on TikTok.
TikTok is failing to ban political ads.
YouTube
YouTube introduces new “Hype” feature. Hype will allow fans to actively support emerging creators by promoting their content within the first seven days of release, using a weekly leaderboard to boost visibility. This initiative gives smaller creators additional exposure and potential revenue through audience engagement.
YouTube launches longer Shorts. In a move that signals a push to compete with TikTok and Instagram Reels, YouTube is now allowing Shorts that are up to three minutes long.
WHAT’S TRENDING
YouTube revenue continues to climb.
Russia fines Google more than the world’s entire GDP.
X
New X block feature goes live. X has updated its blocking feature, allowing blocked accounts to view public posts unless the user’s account is private. While blocked accounts are still prevented from replying or reposting, critics argue this change could jeopardize the safety of abuse survivors by exposing them to potential harassment from individuals they have blocked.
X updates ad platform to optimize performance for SMBs. X has announced updates to its advertising platform aimed at enhancing performance for small and mediumsized businesses (SMBs). These improvements include new tools and features designed to simplify ad management and optimize campaign results for SMBs.
X introduces “Radar” tool for analytics. Premium+ subscribers can now use Radar to measure trends and track conversation volume.
Reddit announces controversial policy change. Following site-wide protests last year, moderators now need Reddit’s permission to turn subreddits private or NSFW.
The translation icon may have moved for some users. Reddit is experimenting with location features. Some features, like the translation icon, may have moved for certain users as Reddit tests different interfaces.
Threads
Threads adds an “activity status” feature. In response to demands for more real-time information, status indicators can show when a user is online.
Threads introduces time-sensitive reposts. Threads has introduced a new feature making reposts time-sensitive, aiming to encourage users to share and interact with content while it’s still relevant.
AI’m psyched for the future of video
We won’t geek out on all the rad capabilities AI is bringing to the video world right now, because we’ll need to keep updating this every week. The pace of innovation can be head-spinning. So how can we get our bearings amidst all the craziness? Here at Summer Friday, we’re focusing on curiosity and immersion. Meaning, we dedicate time each week to roll our sleeves up and get dirty with all the tools out there.
While we can get entranced by all the sexy bells and whistles, many of our clients are more seduced by the practical benefits AI poses for video. Essentially, doing more strategic, targeted video with less money and resources. From personalized content creation and advanced engagement analytics to automated versioning and resizing, the water’s plenty warm for brands to start making some waves.
Here’s a taste of some of the fun we’ve been having with AI in video. How about you? We’re always looking for inspiration. Send a sneak peek of what you’re working on to us at say@heysummerfriday.com.
Social Platform Newsletter 10-24
OCTOBER 2024 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
Have you heard new updates are coming to YouTube shorts? In our latest social newsletter, we provide details on how YouTube is enhancing new features to encourage storytelling within the platform.
Introducing best practices, an education hub for creators on Instagram. The platform is launching best practices, a new section in the Instagram professional dashboard, to give creators the information they need to optimize their content, reach more people and achieve their goals.
Introducing Instagram teen accounts: built-in protections for teens, peace of mind for parents. Teen Accounts will automatically include built-in protections to reassure parents their teens are having safe experiences.
WHAT’S TRENDING
This month, Instagram hosted our first Taste of Instagram in NYC.
Introducing new Facebook Local Tab, Messenger Communities, AI Integrations and more. Facebook has introduced several new features to enhance user experience and community engagement:
- Local tab – Designed to help users discover and connect with businesses, events and services in their area.
- Messenger communities – A new way for people to engage in group conversations around shared interests or local topics. This feature allows users to create and join community chats.
- AI-powered tools – Facebook has implemented new AI-powered tools to improve content creation and interaction:
- AI-Generated Conversation Starters
- AI Image Generation
- AI-Assisted Writing
Facebook content monetization beta. Facebook has introduced a new streamlined program to help content creators monetize their work more effectively. This program consolidates various existing monetization features into a single, user-friendly platform where users can now access tools for ads, subscriptions and tipping in one centralized location, making it easier to manage revenue streams.
Meta introduces two new Facebook ads features for ecommerce. Meta has introduced updates to Facebook ads that enhance catalog support and provide improved control for e-commerce businesses. These changes aim to streamline ad management and boost the effectiveness of online marketing efforts.
Meta adds comment control and brand safety features for Facebook and Instagram ads. Advertisers can now manage comments on their ads more effectively, allowing for better interaction with audiences and protection against negative remarks.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Meta attended the 2024 United Nations General Assembly.
LinkedIn removes “Top Voice” badges. LinkedIn is discontinuing its “Top Voice” badges for collaborative articles, shifting its focus to enhancing the overall content experience and encouraging broader participation among users.
LinkedIn has released a guide on its Advanced Revenue Attribution Report. This tool helps marketers connect their CRM data with LinkedIn ad performance to track how their campaigns directly impact sales outcomes and revenue generation.
WHAT’S TRENDING
LinkedIn has released another new puzzle game, “Tango.”
TikTok
Automate, measure and maximize: TikTok is building for the future with new performance advertising solutions. TikTok is introducing new advertising solutions to help brands achieve real business results with the launch of new automated Performance Tools, additional Measurement Capabilities and new Privacy Technologies.
Add surprise to your stories on TikTok with Flip Stories. To expand on the ways creators share and connect, TikTok introduced Flip Story— a new feature that allows creators to add a second side to every story that can be unlocked with a flip.
Subscription expansion: enabling more creators to enhance relationships with their communities. Subscription allows creators to offer their most engaged followers special access to exclusive perks, unique experiences, and a members only community for a monthly fee.
YouTube
YouTube announces new features. The 2024 update will include over two dozen new features, including fine-tunable playback speed, collaborative playlists and a Sleep Timer. They also plan to enhance their interface across mobile, web and TV.
New updates coming to Shorts. YouTube is enhancing new features to encourage storytelling flexibility, including increasing runtimes up to three minutes, new templates for remixing and integration with YouTube’s content library.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Arkansas sues YouTube over claims that the site is fueling a mental health crisis.
YouTube inks deal to restore music videos for Adele, Nirvana, Bob Dylan and more.
X
X will let accounts that you’ve blocked see your posts. This change was confirmed by Elon Musk, who stated that while blocked accounts will be able to see posts, they will not be able to engage with or interact with the user who has blocked them.
X is changing its revenue-sharing model for content creators on the platform. Previously, creators earned money based on ad views from verified users. Now, earnings will be linked to engagement from X Premium subscribers, meaning that the more Premium users interact with each other’s content, the higher the potential earnings.
WHAT’S TRENDING
New data shows X is losing users in the US and UK.
Brazil fines Musk’s X for site’s return after ban.
Bringing Reddit to more people around the world – machine learning-powered localization and translation launching in more than 35 new countries. Reddit is rolling out a machine translation feature to users in over 35 additional countries, including Brazil and Spain. Users can translate their Reddit feed (posts and comments) into new languages via the translate icon in the app’s overflow menu.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Reddit will be announcing its Q3 performance.
Introducing new AI and automation campaign features to support advertisers. Pinterest Performance+ campaigns can help any advertiser drive lower-funnel performance by optimizing targeting, managing budgets or deciding how much to bid. Through AI and automation features, Pinterest Performance+ campaigns decrease campaign creation time significantly, with 50% less input required.
Introducing new ways to create and share collages:
- Collage remixing lets users collaborate, build on and use existing collages as a starting point for their own creativity.
- Collage sharing makes it easier to download and share collages in video format on other social media platforms.
WHAT’S TRENDING
The Pinterest 2024 Halloween Trend Report is here.
Social Platform Newsletter 09-24
SEPTEMBER 2024 EDITION
social platform
newsletter
In our latest social newsletter, we provide details on how DM usage is on the rise and how Instagram is responding to keep up with the trend.
Meta expands Instagram reminder ads placed via its API. which will ensure that those creating Instagram Reminder Ads via in third-party apps will have all the same functionality available in Meta Ads Manager.
Meta shared Reels tips for holiday promotions. Meta’s published a new overview of Reels ads, including key tips, influencer partnerships, case study notes, and more.
Instagram adds new DM engagement options. With DM usage on the rise on Instagram, the platform is now adding some new DM engagement features to spice up your private chats.
WHAT’S TRENDING
NYFW creator Q&A.
Threads
Threads now allows users to copy links of posts. Threads has added a new functionality in the posts’ hamburger menu in the mobile app. Users can now copy the link of posts and share them elsewhere.
Users can finally manage their own political content in Threads. During the development process and afterwards, the Threads team is adding the toggles needed to limit exposure to political content on the platform. Users can now choose just how much political content they see in their feeds from accounts they haven’t befriended yet.
Facebook introduces training to help creators avoid Community Standards violations. Facebook is launching a new educational initiative aimed at helping creators avoid penalties for first-time violations of its Community Standards, requiring them to complete in-app training upon their first infraction.
Meta launches new Ad Text and Title Editing feature. Meta has introduced a new visual update to its ad creation interface, which now requires advertisers to edit ad text and titles in a separate pop-up window rather than directly within the main platform.
Meta expands Advantage+ Creative with new AI-powered features. Meta has expanded its Advantage+ Creative suite by introducing new AI-powered features that enable advertisers to generate image variations and text overlays based on their existing ad content. This update aims to enhance the ad creation process, making it more efficient and personalized, with a full rollout anticipated by the end of 2024.
TikTok
TikTok and the Family Online Safety Institute partner to launch Digital Safety Partnership For Families. This new resource is designed to help make it easier for families to start conversations about online experiences and set positive digital boundaries together. It’s intentionally not specific to any one app or service, which means that parents and teens can customize the template agreement as they discuss important topics.
Continuing to protect the integrity of TikTok through the US elections. TikTok shared an update on additional media literacy features, expert partnerships, and transparency investments that will further strengthen how they’re protecting the safety and integrity of the platform during this election year.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Back to School with TikTok Shop.
TikTok and NFL renew partnership with multiyear agreement to further enrich the football fan experience.
YouTube
Google launched new products to protect creators. Google is developing new tools to help creators protect their likenesses from unauthorized AI-generated content on YouTube, including technology to detect synthetic singing and facial representations.
WHAT’S TRENDING
Cristiano Ronaldo launches YouTube Channel.
Shopify and YouTube expand partnership.
X
X close to launching payment service. X is progressing towards launching its payment service, aligning with Elon Musk’s vision of transforming the platform into an “everything app.” X is working on integrating a “Payments” button into the navigation bar, along with features for transactions, balance, and transfers.
X rolls out DM editing on iOS. X has introduced a new feature that allows users to edit their DMs after sending them. This update aims to enhance user experience by giving individuals the ability to correct mistakes or modify messages without needing to send a new one.
WHAT’S TRENDING
With X blocked, Brazilians find new homes for their thoughts.