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.
