Your March Social Scoop Unplugged
Looking for the latest social media trends, platform updates, and industry news this month? You’re in the right place! This guide is regularly updated with all the key changes you need to know. Bookmark this page and check back often to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of social media.
March 2025 Recap
Last updated on 27th March 2025
Meta’s incorporating AI-based recommendations to help source potential ad partners.
Meta could look to offer UK users an ad-free subscription to its apps
Facebook and IG users in Europe will now be able to try out Meta’s AI chatbot
TikTok outlines updates to in-stream shopping ads and options
Meta’s launching the first stage of its community notes programme with users in the U.S.
Meta invites more advertisers to link their Google Analytics account
Instagram tests ‘blend’—a new way to share reels with friends
TikTok expands seller flexibility with new shipping and return options
TikTok’s Creator Marketplace will be no more after 1st of April
Pinterest plans to roll out more transparent AI labeling on posts
LinkedIn tests alternate feed of updates from only your connections
Meta Continues To Integrate AI Bot Profiles Into Its Apps
A few months ago, Meta (aka the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp) casually announced its plans to roll out millions of AI-powered characters across its platforms.
People raised eyebrows, expressed concern for a few days, and then… silence. Meta didn’t say much more, and the conversation moved on.
But behind the scenes? The rollout hasn’t stopped. In fact, it’s quietly accelerating — and it’s now showing up in the very apps you and I use every day to market, network, and build community.
So, what’s actually happening?
Meta is integrating AI bots across Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook. These bots aren’t just tucked away in obscure corners of the apps — they’re being placed front and centre as part of how we engage online.
Here’s where things stand:
1. AI Studio is now live on Messenger and WhatsApp
Some users can now access an “AI Studio” feature inside Messenger and WhatsApp. This lets you:
• Browse a list of pre-made AI characters to chat with
• Create your own AI persona, complete with custom personality traits
• Manage your characters and how they interact in chats
This feature is available on both desktop and mobile, and it’s likely to expand further soon.
2. Instagram is rolling out AI character creation tools
On Instagram, users are starting to see new AI options in the “Create” tools. These allow you to:
• Build custom AI characters during the post creation process
• Generate visual and conversational elements
• Soon, even give these bots voices
This is part of Meta’s wider AI strategy, where the aim is to populate its platforms with AI-powered characters who can post, comment, and engage just like human users.
What does this mean for you?
This might sound futuristic, but here’s why this matters — especially if you’re a business owner, content creator, or social media manager:
• AI bots will start showing up in your comments, DMs, and feeds
Some of these accounts may appear real at first glance, but they’re entirely automated.
• You may unknowingly interact with bots
These bots can engage with your content, respond to your posts, and even start conversations — blurring the line between real and artificial interaction.
• AI bots may impact how your content performs
With Meta pushing more in-app engagement via bots, you may notice shifts in how your posts are being interacted with. Increased engagement? Possibly. But how authentic is that engagement?
What’s the bigger picture here?
Meta has made it clear that it intends to bring millions of AI profiles into its platforms — complete with names, bios, interests, and “personalities”. These bots will act like real people, but they won’t be. And for many users, it may not be immediately obvious who’s real and who isn’t.
This raises some big questions:
• How will this affect trust on social media?
• What does this mean for mental health and digital connection?
• Are we repeating the same mistakes we made in the early days of social media — prioritising engagement over wellbeing?
Meta’s framing this as innovation. But critics are already warning about the psychological and social risks of increasingly human-like digital interactions — especially when there are few, if any, safeguards in place.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re excited about the possibilities or uneasy about where this is heading, one thing’s clear: AI bots are no longer a futuristic concept. They’re here, they’re active, and they’re becoming part of how we experience and engage with social media.
If you’re managing an online presence, it’s worth keeping an eye on how this develops — because this could shape how we connect, market, and build community online in the months and years to come.
Meta’s incorporating AI-based recommendations to help source potential ad partners.
While we’ve all been figuring out how to make our content stand out in 2025, Meta’s been quietly upgrading the tools that help brands and creators work together more effectively. If you’re running ads, building partnerships, or just trying to get your brand in front of the right audience, these updates are worth your attention.
Here’s what’s new
1. Smarter creator matching with AI
Meta is now using AI trained on ad performance data to recommend creators who are most likely to deliver results for your brand. It looks at content style, audience overlap, past ad experience, and more — making it easier to choose the right people without relying on guesswork.
2. Highlighting organic content that’s ad-ready
If someone’s already posted about your brand, Meta can now flag those organic posts as strong candidates for paid partnership ads. It’s a quick way to boost content that’s already doing well.
3. Keyword search in Creator Marketplace
Instead of filtering through categories, brands can now search for specific phrases like “soccer mums with dogs” or “gluten-free dessert creators” and find relevant profiles instantly. You can still filter by verticals like Fashion, Beauty, or Home and Garden, but now you’ve got more precision.
4. Upgraded creator profiles
Profiles will now show more engagement metrics, posting frequency, and badges that indicate who’s already run partnership ads. You’ll also see their latest branded content to help you assess fit.
5. Creator cards with playable Reels
When browsing creators, you’ll now be able to view their Reels directly on their profile cards — no extra clicking around. Each card also includes direct email links to simplify outreach.
6. Expanded API support for campaigns
For those managing ads through Meta’s API, there’s now more flexibility. You can use partnership content in more placements and even run click-to-message ads featuring creator content.
Why it matters
Meta says partnership ads outperform standard branded content in driving purchases — with 96 percent confidence. And that’s especially true on Reels, where polished brand creatives often fall flat compared to content made by creators who truly get the format.
These updates aren’t just about saving time. They’re about improving performance, building smarter partnerships, and giving brands access to the kind of creative that actually converts.
Meta adds more voices for user-created AI chatbots
Meta isn’t shouting about it, but they’re quietly making big moves in the AI space — especially when it comes to personalised chatbots. If you’ve noticed AI characters popping up across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp lately, that’s no accident. Meta’s on a mission to make these bots more human-like, and the latest update brings a big shift: voice.
Yes, your AI chatbot can now talk back — and you’ve got a growing library of voice options to choose from.
Custom bots, now with a voice
Through Meta’s AI Studio, users can now create bots with not just personality traits and profile images, but also a custom voice. Voices are organised into categories so you can find one that matches the tone and style you’re after. Whether you’re building a playful assistant or a polished persona, there’s more flexibility to shape how your AI sounds.
This builds on features Meta’s been testing over the past year — like custom interests, avatars, and conversation styles — all leading toward the bigger vision Mark Zuckerberg hinted at back in 2023: creators building “AI agents” that act as digital extensions of themselves.
Soon, creators will be able to train these bots using their own content — meaning you could end up chatting with a version of your favourite influencer that actually sounds like them. Combine that with Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses and this starts to look a lot more immersive than a standard chatbot experience.
The bigger picture
Meta wants these AI bots to be more than just novelties. They’re planning for a future where AI-powered profiles post, comment, and interact in-app — just like real users. That may sound futuristic, but the infrastructure’s already being built. In 2025 alone, Meta’s investing $65 billion into AI. Yes, billion.
This isn’t their first attempt either. If you remember Meta’s celebrity chatbots in 2023 (Kendall Jenner, MrBeast, etc.), you’ll also remember they didn’t take off. Despite the hype (and a hefty celeb budget), engagement was low, and the bots were quietly shelved. But with renewed interest in AI and stronger tools behind the scenes, Meta’s ready to try again — this time by putting creation tools into everyone’s hands.
Will it work? Possibly. There’s a clear appetite for more personalised AI experiences (just look at ChatGPT), and this might be Meta’s version of that — only with more visual, social integration. If they can get creators to lead the way, these bots could become part of how audiences engage with content online.
What to watch
Not everyone’s sold on the concept. There are real questions around the mental health implications of interacting with lifelike digital personas. And while Meta’s probably not putting that front and centre, it’s something we should be paying attention to.
Still, from a marketing perspective, the potential there. These AI agents could become tools for customer service, community engagement, or even passive content delivery. And if Meta can drive even a slight increase in time spent on their platforms, they’ll call it a win.
So, keep your eye on this one. It might feel a little sci-fi right now, but in a few months, AI voices in the DMs could be a lot more common than you think.
Meta could look to offer UK users an ad-free subscription to its apps
Meta might be preparing to offer UK users the chance to opt out of ads — for a price. This follows a recent legal settlement that, while relatively low-profile, could have big implications for user privacy and platform advertising across the country.
The background
The case began in 2022 when UK human rights campaigner Tanya O’Carroll filed a legal challenge against Meta. She argued that under UK consumer law, she has the right to object to her personal data being used for targeted advertising. Meta countered that its ad targeting didn’t count as direct marketing.
Now, Meta has reached a settlement in the case — one that applies specifically to O’Carroll. As a result, her personal data will no longer be used for ad targeting by Meta.
What this means
While this isn’t a blanket win that rewrites the law, it does raise a key question: do UK users have the right to opt out of personalised advertising based on data collection?
To reduce the risk of similar cases, Meta may look to roll out its ad-free subscription model in the UK, similar to the one introduced across the EU. There, users can choose to pay for an ad-free experience — a move Meta positions as a privacy-friendly alternative.
But the EU version has faced criticism. Regulators and privacy advocates argue that making users pay to protect their data goes against the spirit of the GDPR. The backlash has already led Meta to lower subscription prices in some countries.
What’s next?
Introducing the same model in the UK might seem like a logical step for Meta, but it could bring legal complications of its own. The question remains: should people have to pay to exercise basic data right?
There’s a good chance Meta will wait to gauge how the situation unfolds before committing to any changes. And practically speaking, most users are likely to stick with the free, ad-supported version of Facebook and Instagram either way.
But this case adds to the growing pressure on major tech platforms to rethink how they handle data privacy — and how much control users really have.
We’ll be watching this one closely.
Facebook and IG users in Europe will now be able to try out Meta’s AI chatbot
After months of delays tied to regulatory compliance, Meta has officially launched its AI chatbot across the EU — but it’s not the full version users elsewhere are familiar with.
A cautious rollout
Meta’s AI chatbot is now available to users on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp throughout the EU and UK. Users will see a Meta AI icon appear in search, and can call on the assistant by tagging @MetaAI in chats.
This follows a lengthy period of back-and-forth with EU regulators, which had stalled the launch amid concerns around data use and privacy. Even now, Meta is restricted from training its AI models on user data from within the EU.
Despite this limitation, the company says it’s an important milestone. In Meta’s own words:
“It’s taken longer than we would have liked to get our AI technology into the hands of people in Europe as we continue to navigate its complex regulatory system – but we’re glad we’re finally here.”
The chatbot will initially support six European languages, with plans to expand functionality to match the US version over time.
A wider legal and political battle
Meta’s AI launch comes after months of legal tension. Privacy advocacy group NOYB previously challenged Meta’s AI rollout, urging regulators to intervene before full deployment. That pressure caused Meta to pause its original launch plans in the region last year.
At the same time, Meta faces legal scrutiny in France and elsewhere over the use of copyrighted material in training its large language models.
Meta has consistently argued that Europe’s regulatory environment is stifling innovation. In an open letter co-signed with other tech firms last year, the company warned that current data rules would lead to AI models that fail to understand or represent European knowledge, languages, or culture.
These frustrations have spilled over into geopolitics. The Trump administration has reportedly voiced support for Meta’s position, even threatening trade penalties in response to what it views as over-regulation by the EU.
What’s next?
Meta says over 700 million people now interact with its AI chatbot each month. That figure is likely inflated by automated interactions (such as AI-generated answers to search queries), but it still signals Meta’s intent to lead the AI assistant space.
For EU users, the version being rolled out now is limited — but it’s a first step. As regulatory conversations continue, demand for more functionality could put pressure on lawmakers to revisit the rules.
For Meta, Europe remains a critical market. And while full parity with the US experience is still a way off, this launch marks progress in its wider AI expansion strategy.
TikTok outlines updates to in-stream shopping ads and options
If you’re selling on TikTok or even just thinking about it, the latest updates are worth paying attention to. TikTok is doubling down on its in-app shopping features with smarter ad tools, better automation, and more ways to reach buyers at the right moment.
Let’s break down what’s new and why it matters.
Smart+ Campaigns Just Got an Upgrade
TikTok’s AI-powered Smart+ campaigns now support both website and app conversions within a single campaign. That means if you’re promoting products on your site and also trying to drive app installs, you can do it all in one place.
They’ve also added a “Traffic” objective, giving you more flexibility beyond just sales or downloads. It’s a win if you want to grow brand awareness while still tapping into TikTok’s powerful AI targeting.
GMV Max Just Became More Creator-Friendly
For TikTok Shop merchants, GMV Max campaigns are now even more powerful. You can automatically include affiliate content in your ads, which means creators’ videos promoting your products can now work harder for you—without extra steps.
They’ve also added LIVE formats to GMV Max, allowing you to promote products in real time with automated ad support behind the scenes.
Search Ads Now in the Shop Tab
TikTok’s search ads are expanding into the Shop tab. This puts your products directly in front of users who are actively browsing and ready to buy. It’s a smart move for brands that want visibility when users are already in shopping mode.
Smarter Ad Creation with Symphony Tools
TikTok has made creating ads even easier with its updated Symphony tools. There’s a new product-to-video feature that lets you input basic product info—or even just a URL—and it’ll generate TikTok-ready video content for you in minutes.
Other features include:
• Video script generation
• AI avatars
• Automated language translation
If content creation feels like a bottleneck, this could be a time-saver worth exploring.
What This Means for You
TikTok is clearly moving toward a more seamless, automated shopping experience. If you’re a business owner or creator looking to sell on the platform, these updates mean less manual setup, better targeting, and more ways to reach your ideal customer.
Now is a great time to start experimenting with Smart+ campaigns, explore GMV Max if you use TikTok Shop, and get familiar with Symphony’s creative tools.
Pinterest outlines its new feed module display
If you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest lately and noticed some new full-width modules breaking up your feed, you’re not imagining things. Pinterest is rolling out fresh ways to keep users engaged, and these new feed modules are a key part of that plan.
Let’s take a look at what they are, how they work, and what they mean for marketers and creators.
Two Types of Modules, Two Different Goals
Pinterest’s updated feed now includes two main types of modules:
• Landing Page Modules: Tap one of these and you’re taken to a curated landing page with a collection of Pins to explore. Think of it like a mini discovery page tailored to a specific topic.
• Carousel Modules: These show a horizontal scroll of related Pins directly in your home feed, so you can swipe through ideas without leaving the stream.
The goal? More personalised discovery. Pinterest wants users to explore broader ideas and stay inspired, without disrupting the natural flow of their feed.
Smarter Recommendations Based on Your Behaviour
Pinterest isn’t just throwing these modules at everyone. They’re using an engagement-based approach to make sure the content stays relevant.
If you keep seeing a module but never tap on it, Pinterest will pause showing it to you. Behind the scenes, they’re tracking how many times you’ve seen a module versus how many times you’ve actually interacted with it. If there’s no engagement after a certain threshold, the module disappears for a while.
So your Pinterest feed still feels personal—not overloaded with things you’re not interested in.
Dynamic Placement, Not Just a Set Pattern
Initially, Pinterest slotted these modules into fixed positions (like every 15th or 35th Pin), but that didn’t always deliver the best results. Now, they’ve moved to a “skip slot” model. That means a module will only appear if Pinterest predicts it will get more engagement than the Pin it would be replacing.
In other words, the platform is working to make every scroll count—whether it’s a regular Pin or a new module.
Why This Matters for You
For marketers and content creators, it’s a helpful look into how Pinterest is curating user feeds. These modules are designed to spark more interaction and discovery, so if you’re creating content on Pinterest, knowing how and when your Pins could be shown is key.
It’s also a reminder that Pinterest is leaning more into AI and engagement signals to shape the user experience—so the more you can create content that’s both relevant and clickable, the better your chances of being featured.
X now enables you to edit elements of images with Grok
Another day, another AI update—this time from X (formerly Twitter), and it’s a handy one. The platform’s AI chatbot, Grok, can now edit specific elements of images directly in the app.
That means you can ask Grok to tweak just one part of your image (like changing the colour of a shirt or swapping the background), and it’ll adjust only that section—without needing to jump into a separate design tool.
It’s similar to what Instagram has been testing with its Meta AI tools, but now it’s built right into the X post composer. So whether you’re updating a product shot or having fun with creative edits, it’s just a few prompts away.
Why It Matters
Tools like DALL·E and Midjourney already let you do this kind of targeted editing, but having it inside your social platform? That’s a game-changer. No app-hopping, no downloading. Just a quick tweak in the flow of writing your post.
And yes, this is just the beginning. X recently acquired Hotshot to boost its video generation capabilities, so we’re heading toward a future where you could create and edit entire videos directly within the app. We’re not there yet (video editing requires frame-by-frame control), but the tech is moving quickly—and X isn’t the only one working on it. Meta and YouTube are also building their own AI video tools.
Who Can Use It?
The image editing feature is part of the broader Grok AI system that powers X’s chatbot. If you’re a Premium user, you’ll get more advanced tools and early access to features like voice search. But the good news is that even non-premium users can try out the basics.
It’s another step in X’s push to integrate smarter, more creative tools directly into its platform—and for content creators, brands, and everyday users alike, it’s one more way to stand out without needing a full design team.
LinkedIn rolls out improvements for Campaign Manager
If you’re running LinkedIn ads, this one’s for you. LinkedIn has rolled out a bunch of updates to its Campaign Manager tool, all designed to give you better insight, less guesswork, and smarter ad performance.
What’s New?
1. Media Planner (AKA: Forecasts Before You Spend)
You can now see predicted results before you hit launch. The new Media Planner feature gives a clear visual of your expected ROI, impressions, and reach—so you can tweak your campaign early on rather than reacting later. It’s AI-powered, and while it’s not going to be 100% perfect, it’s a helpful ballpark.
2. Duplicating Ads is Now Easier
Need to run the same ad across multiple campaigns or accounts? No more copy/paste. You can now duplicate ads in a click and push them where you need them—much faster.
3. Automated UTM tracking performance just got a bit smoother with dynamic UTM generation. You’ll now get custom UTMs automatically, making it easier to follow the impact of your campaigns.
4. Dashboard Upgrades
LinkedIn’s also refreshed its dashboards with:
• A top-level account overview (to see the big picture across campaigns)
• Best practice tips (so you’re not guessing what to fix)
• More granular measurement insights (by ad, audience, and journey stage)
It’s a clearer way to see what’s working, what’s not, and where to focus your budget.
5. AI-Generated Campaign Summaries
Lastly, Campaign Manager now includes a Campaign Performance Digest—an AI-generated summary that breaks down what happened, why it happened, and where your wins (and losses) were. Think of it like a smart assistant that translates your data into plain language.
Why It Matters
These upgrades make LinkedIn’s ad tools more accessible, especially for small teams or solo marketers who don’t have hours to dig through metrics. The forecasting tools are also super useful if you’re planning to spend or pitching for more budget.
Worth keeping an eye on, especially if LinkedIn is part of your B2B strategy.
LinkedIn adds Calendly integration for profile CTA buttons
This one’s for the LinkedIn Premium users: you can now link your Calendly directly to your profile with a new “Book an Appointment” button.
Here’s How It Works
Premium users can set up a custom CTA that leads straight to their Calendly booking page. That means anyone visiting your profile can instantly schedule a meeting without the back-and-forth messaging.
Quick, easy, and much more efficient if you’re using LinkedIn to generate leads, book discovery calls, or manage client inquiries.
Why It’s Useful
LinkedIn says over a million users have added CTA buttons like “Visit my website,” “Book an appointment,” and “View my services” since the feature launched in 2023—and they’re seeing an average of 25% more profile views.
Now, more views are nice, but let’s be honest: what really matters is action. You want people to click, book, and convert—not just browse.
Adding a Calendly CTA gives profile visitors a clear next step, which can help turn passive interest into actual conversations.
You’re not guaranteed more leads just because you add a button—but removing friction from the booking process? Always a smart move.
If LinkedIn is where your people hang out, this update’s worth trying.
Instagram Experiments With AI-Generated Comments on Posts
Instagram is testing a new feature that generates AI-powered comments for users. Instead of coming up with your own response, you’ll soon be able to tap a button and have Meta’s AI suggest a reply for you. The goal? Supposedly, to boost engagement.
But let’s be real—does AI-generated chatter actually improve social media, or are we just filling feeds with more inauthentic noise?
How It Works
Some Instagram users are starting to see a small “pencil with a star” icon next to the comment box. Tap it, and Instagram will generate a handful of suggested comments based on the post you’re viewing.
In other words, you no longer need to think about what to say. Meta’s AI will handle it for you.
AI Comments, AI Conversations, AI… Everything?
This isn’t the only AI experiment Meta is working on. They’re also testing AI-generated bot profiles—digital versions of real people that can interact with others using pre-set personality traits.
So in the near future, you might be engaging with an AI version of your friend, rather than the actual person. Sounds futuristic—or maybe just weird?
We’ve already seen AI-generated comments on LinkedIn, auto-replies in Gmail, and suggested responses in DMs. But Instagram’s version is different. These comments are tailored to the post, making them feel more natural… even if they aren’t.
What Does This Mean for Businesses?
For brands and businesses on Instagram, this shift could have a few implications:
• More engagement on posts – If AI-generated comments take off, posts could see more activity, even if it’s not entirely human-driven.
• Easier community management – Responding to comments could become quicker if AI helps craft responses. But will it feel genuine?
• Harder to gauge real interest – If half the comments on a post are AI-generated, it could make it harder to tell which interactions are truly valuable.
The Big Question
Is this the future of social media? A mix of human and AI conversations blending together? Or are we just heading toward an era where online interactions feel even less real?
If AI-generated engagement leads to more human participation, Meta might be onto something. But if it just clutters the platform with meaningless replies, this could be another case of tech trying to fix something that wasn’t broken.
Meta’s launching the first stage of its Community Notes program with users in the U.S.
Meta is rolling out Community Notes on Facebook and Instagram, a move that shifts fact-checking from third-party experts to a crowd-sourced model. If this sounds familiar, that’s because it’s based on the same system X (formerly Twitter) uses—where users submit and rate fact-checks to provide additional context on posts.
But will this actually improve misinformation control, or just create new challenges?
How It Works
Community Notes allow users to submit context on posts they believe need clarification. These notes are then reviewed and rated by other contributors. If a diverse enough group of contributors agrees that a note is helpful, it gets displayed on the post.
Meta emphasises that this system is designed to prevent bias—notes won’t be published unless people with different perspectives agree they provide useful context. In theory, this ensures that fact-checks aren’t just reinforcing one side of an argument.
The Pros and Cons
Potential Benefits:
• Scalability – Crowd-sourced fact-checking can potentially cover more ground than third-party moderators.
• Trustworthiness – Studies suggest users trust Community Notes more than traditional fact-checking because they don’t carry perceptions of bias.
• Reduced misinformation spread – Research indicates that posts flagged with Community Notes are shared less frequently.
Challenges to Watch:
• Notes may not appear often – On X, up to 85% of Community Notes never get shown due to disagreements between reviewers. If Meta’s system follows suit, many misleading posts could go unchecked.
• Risk of manipulation – X’s Community Notes system has already been gamed by organised groups that coordinate to upvote or downvote specific notes.
• No more third-party fact checks – Once Community Notes are live in a region, traditional fact-checking will be phased out. If Community Notes fail to catch certain misinformation, there won’t be another system in place to correct it.
What This Means for Businesses and Creators
If you rely on Facebook or Instagram for marketing, this could impact how content is perceived:
• More user-driven moderation – Instead of Meta’s moderation team, users will have more control over what’s flagged or clarified.
• Potential reputation risks – If Community Notes get applied to a post, even fairly, it might affect how audiences view your content.
• Less predictability in platform rules – With third-party fact-checking gone, the new system could be inconsistent, depending on which notes get approved.
Is This the Future of Content Moderation?
Meta is betting that a community-driven approach is more effective than relying on traditional fact-checking organisations. But if too many valid notes get buried due to disagreement, or if bad actors manipulate the system, it could create more gaps in misinformation control rather than solving the issue.
Community Notes will roll out in the U.S. first, starting March 18, before expanding to other regions. Whether this system will improve content accuracy—or just create a new way for misinformation to slip through—remains to be seen.
Meta invites more advertisers to link their Google Analytics account
Meta is making it easier for advertisers to connect their Google Analytics data, inviting more ad account managers to link their accounts directly within Meta Ads Manager. This move aims to provide deeper traffic insights, ultimately improving ad performance.
What’s Changing?
Advertisers are now seeing prompts in Ads Manager to connect their Google Analytics accounts. Once linked, Meta can use aggregated data from Google to enhance campaign insights. This works alongside Meta Pixel and the Conversions API to offer a clearer picture of how ads drive website traffic and conversions.
Key details:
• The integration is managed via Meta Events Manager.
• Advertisers can choose to share all traffic sources or only traffic from Meta.
• Maintaining connection quality ensures relevant events are mapped correctly.
Why This Matters for Advertisers
Meta’s internal study across 1,075 ad accounts found that connecting Google Analytics data led to a 5% increase in conversions. That’s a meaningful boost, especially for businesses focused on maximising ad spend efficiency.
Potential Benefits:
• Better attribution insights – Understand where your traffic is coming from and what’s driving conversions.
• More accurate optimisation – Meta can refine ad targeting based on a broader dataset.
• Long-term performance improvements – More data means Meta’s ad system can get smarter over time.
What to Consider Before Linking
Not everyone will be comfortable sharing website data with Meta. If privacy or data control is a concern, you may want to weigh the trade-off between deeper insights and maintaining separation between platforms. However, for those looking to optimise ad performance, this could be a valuable tool.
Who Can Access It?
This feature is still rolling out, so if you don’t see the option yet, it may become available soon. If you’re running Meta ads and want better visibility into traffic and conversions, keep an eye on Meta Events Manager for the integration prompt.
Facebook adds Stories to its Creator Monetisation Programme
Facebook is giving creators another way to earn, adding Facebook Stories to its monetisation program. If you’re already making money from videos, Reels, photos, or text posts, you can now earn from Stories too—without any extra steps.
How It Works
Facebook streamlined its creator monetisation process last year, merging in-stream ads and performance-based bonuses into one program. Now, Stories are included in that system.
Here’s what that means for creators:
• No extra setup – If you’re already monetising content, Stories will automatically be included.
• Performance-based payouts – Earnings are tied to views and engagement, not ad placements.
• Global availability – This is rolling out to all monetsed creators worldwide.
Why This Matters
Most social media users don’t post—they just consume content. That’s why Meta needs to keep creators engaged and incentivised to post regularly. Expanding monetisation options helps ensure that.
For creators, this means more ways to generate income and grow their audience. And with Meta also exploring monetisation options for Threads, it’s clear they’re doubling down on keeping top voices active across all platforms.
If you’re not in the monetisation program yet, you can sign up through Facebook Content Monetisation and start earning from Stories.
Oracle firms as TikTok’s likely partner in the U.S
The TikTok-U.S. saga continues, and Oracle is now the frontrunner to become TikTok’s security and operations partner. However, a deal is still far from done.
The Proposal
Under the latest reported plan, Oracle would handle U.S. user data security, ensuring compliance with the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. But ByteDance would retain full control over TikTok’s algorithm—which powers the “For You” feed.
Bloomberg reports that Oracle and U.S. buyers would vouch for data security, ensuring that no “back doors” could be exploited by the Chinese government.
The Legal Hurdles
This proposal may not fully comply with the law, which requires that:
Foreign ownership stays under 20%
Foreign entities cannot control the platform
Foreign companies cannot have an “operational relationship” with the content algorithm or data sharing
Since ByteDance would still control the algorithm, this deal could violate the law as written.
The Bigger Picture
• China has refused to sell TikTok’s algorithm, making negotiations even more complicated.
• The U.S. government has until April 4th to finalise a solution—but Trump has hinted at possible extensions.
What’s Next?
With billions at stake, pressure is mounting on both sides. A full ban could still be on the table if a legal workaround isn’t found.
For now, the waiting game continues.
Data shows that longer clips are gaining traction on TikTok
Short-form video has dominated social media, but the definition of “short” is shifting. New data suggests that slightly longer videos—around the one to three-minute mark—are now performing better than quick 30-second clips.
The Data Behind the Shift
Buffer’s latest report analyzed 1.1 million TikTok videos and found that:
• Videos longer than one minute get 63.8% more watch time than 30-60 second clips.
• Longer videos also reach more people and drive higher engagement.
This aligns with changes across other platforms:
• Instagram recently extended Reels to 3 minutes after previously stating that videos over 90 seconds didn’t perform well.
• YouTube made 3-minute videos eligible for the Shorts feed, signalling a shift in audience behaviour.
What This Means for Your Content Strategy
The sweet spot used to be 60-90 seconds, but now, platforms are encouraging slightly longer videos. That doesn’t mean you should start posting 10-minute uploads, but experimenting with 1-3 minute content could help boost engagement.
TikTok’s algorithm rewards content that holds attention. If longer videos keep people watching, they’ll get prioritised in the feed—which is exactly what’s happening.
If you’ve been sticking to short clips, it might be time to test longer storytelling, deeper explanations, or more engaging hooks to keep your audience watching.
napchat announces new features for its AR Spectacles
While Apple and Meta push forward with AR wearables, Snapchat is still in the game. Its fifth-generation AR Spectacles are in early testing, and new updates could shape the future of immersive experiences.
What’s New?
Snapchat just announced several upgrades for its AR glasses, including:
• GPS-powered effects – Users can overlay directions and real-world elements in their view.
• Interactive AR games – Partnering with Niantic’s Peridot Beyond, allowing real-time interactions.
• AI-powered coaching – Features like a holographic basketball trainer that tracks shooting scores.
Snap is also enhancing AR lens creation tools, adding:
• Leaderboards for competitive effects.
• Improved hand tracking for more responsive interactions.
• AR keyboard support for text-based overlays.
Incentives for AR Developers
Snapchat is offering cash rewards for Lens creators through “Spectacles Community Challenges.” Every month, Snap will award $20,000 in prizes to the best new and updated Lenses.
That’s a solid incentive—though there’s a catch. Right now, Spectacles are only available to approved developers, who must pay $99 per month for access.
The Big Question: Can Snapchat Compete?
The AR glasses space is getting crowded. Meta is focused on lighter, cheaper devices, while Apple’s VisionPro, though powerful, is too expensive for most users.
Snapchat has been a leader in AR innovation, but it’s unclear how it will make Spectacles both competitive and affordable for the general market. For now, it seems committed to pushing AR forward, even if its biggest competitors have more resources to scale.
X users will soon be able to generate AI videos in-stream
Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has made its first acquisition, purchasing text-to-video startup Hotshot.
Hotshot has developed AI models that generate videos and GIFs from text, and now, that technology will be integrated into xAI’s ecosystem. This could eventually allow X (formerly Twitter) users to generate videos directly in the app—though likely only for paying subscribers.
What Hotshot Brings to xAI
Hotshot has been working on three video AI models:
• Hotshot-XL
• Hotshot Act One
• Hotshot
Now, with access to xAI’s Colossus supercomputer, the Hotshot team has significantly more computing power to scale their technology.
This could lead to advanced AI video capabilities in X’s Grok chatbot, making it a more competitive tool against OpenAI and Meta’s AI projects.
The Bigger Picture
• xAI has raised over $12 billion in funding, separate from the X social platform but still closely linked.
• X posts fuel xAI’s AI training, while Grok chatbot is integrated into X’s app.
• Musk’s real goal is to challenge OpenAI and Meta, which he sees as leading AI in ways he disagrees with.
What’s Next?
This move keeps xAI in the AI race, though whether it can compete with Meta—investing $65 billion into AI this year alone—remains to be seen.
However, Musk’s close ties to the U.S. government’s AI initiatives could give xAI an edge in securing major contracts. That would significantly boost its position, even against bigger players.
X Offers Trip To Mars in March Madness Competition
X has launched a March Madness Bracket Challenge, in partnership with Uber Eats, with one of the wildest grand prizes ever:
A trip to Mars on a SpaceX Starship.
Or, if you’re not into interplanetary travel (or reality), a $100,000 cash prize.
The Details
• To win the trip, you need a perfect March Madness bracket—a nearly impossible feat.
• If no one gets a perfect bracket (which is almost guaranteed), the next closest winner gets $100,000.
• Four additional winners will receive $10,000 each.
• There’s also an optional $250,000 cash prize + free Starlink for a year if you’d rather take real money instead of a fictional Mars ticket.
The Catch?
While Musk has ambitious plans for colonising Mars, SpaceX isn’t even close to making commercial space travel a reality. Starship is still in early testing, and the idea of regular Mars trips is more of a long-term dream than something anyone will experience soon.
That means the Mars ticket is essentially a gimmick, but hey, it gets people talking.
How to Enter
• X users will need to register and submit their brackets in the app.
• The contest is open now, with the winners determined after the tournament.
Will someone win a ticket to Mars? Probably not. But a six-figure payday? That’s very real.
Instagram Tests ‘Blend’—A New Way to Share Reels with Friends
Instagram is testing a new feature called Blend, designed to create a shared feed of AI-recommended Reels for you and a friend. Instead of sending Reels back and forth, Blend pulls together suggested videos based on both users’ activity, creating a single, co-curated experience.
How Does Blend Work?
Currently being tested in select accounts, Blend appears in the DM feed, where users can invite friends to join. Once activated, it generates a combined Reels feed tailored to both users’ viewing habits. Instagram describes it as a way to see Reels that both participants would have been shown individually—essentially merging two algorithms into one.
Even more interesting, the Blend feed adapts over time based on Reels shared in the chat. So, if you and your friend frequently send each other dog videos, expect to see even more of them in your Blend.
Will Blend Change How We Share Reels?
Instagram has been leaning heavily into private sharing, with more engagement happening in DMs than on the main feed. Blend is an extension of this trend, aiming to streamline content discovery between close connections.
But will it catch on? While it could be a fun way to bond over shared interests, a key part of sharing Reels is choosing specific videos for different friends. Your fitness-loving friend may not care about your home renovation content, and vice versa. Unless you and a friend have highly aligned interests, Blend may not be as useful as Instagram hopes.
That said, Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, seems excited about it, and given the platform’s focus on boosting DM engagement in 2025, we’ll likely see this roll out more widely soon. Whether it becomes a must-use feature or another experiment remains to be seen.
Meta Expands Face ID Use for Security
Meta is expanding its facial recognition technology, rolling out new security features for high-profile users in select regions. While the update aims to combat scams and improve account recovery, it also raises questions about data privacy and Meta’s history with facial recognition.
How Does Meta’s Face ID Security Work?
Meta first introduced facial recognition for account recovery last year, allowing users to verify their identity with Face ID instead of traditional methods like email or two-factor authentication. Now, the company is expanding the feature to public figures in the UK, EU, and South Korea.
One key focus is preventing “celeb-bait” scams, where fraudsters use photos of well-known figures to promote fake ads. With Face ID, Meta can cross-check faces in ads against verified profiles, flagging potential misuse and alerting the public before the scam spreads.
Privacy Concerns: A Step Forward or a Step Back?
Meta insists the feature is optional and that facial data is deleted once it’s no longer needed, but its history with biometric data makes this a sensitive topic.
In 2021, Meta shut down Facebook’s facial recognition system after facing backlash over privacy risks. Meanwhile, facial recognition is already being used for questionable purposes worldwide, from tracking jaywalkers in China to monitoring stadium attendees. Understandably, many users are wary of uploading their biometric data to a major tech company.
Is This About Security—or Something Bigger?
While Meta presents this as a security feature, the long-term implications point to a bigger play: building more realistic avatars for its metaverse vision.
Recent reports suggest that Meta is developing AI models that can create photorealistic avatars from just four selfies, a step towards making virtual interactions more lifelike. The more people who opt into Face ID now, the easier it will be for Meta to introduce advanced AI-driven avatars in the future.
What’s Next?
For now, the expansion of Face ID is limited to high-profile users, but if adoption goes smoothly, Meta will likely roll it out more broadly. Whether users embrace or reject it will depend on how well Meta rebuilds trust around biometric data—something it hasn’t always managed well in the past.
TikTok Expands Seller Flexibility with New Shipping and Return Options
TikTok is making life easier for sellers by introducing new tools for managing shipping, returns, and order cancellations. These updates aim to give businesses greater control while improving the customer experience—though they also raise questions about how sellers will balance flexibility with buyer expectations.
What’s New for TikTok Sellers?
TikTok Shop is rolling out several updates, including:
Automated After-Sales Approvals – Sellers can now automate refunds, replacements, and cancellations, making it easier to manage returns without manually approving every request.
Custom Return Windows – Businesses can set return periods anywhere from 14 to 90 days, depending on their policies (though local consumer laws still apply).
PO Box Exclusion – Sellers can now block PO boxes from being used as delivery addresses, helping to prevent lost packages and disputes over undelivered orders.
Final Sale for Fashion Items – Certain fashion categories can now be marked as final sale, reducing return rates for high-risk items. TikTok has hinted that this feature could expand to more product categories in the future.
Extended Shipping Handling Times – Qualified sellers can now extend their order processing time from three to seven business days, allowing more flexibility in logistics.
A Win for Sellers—But What About Buyers?
For businesses, these features provide more control over order management, helping to streamline operations and reduce unnecessary returns. However, too much flexibility can impact the customer experience. Extended shipping times or strict return policies might lead to frustrated buyers, ultimately affecting repeat purchases and brand reputation.
The key for sellers will be finding the right balance—using these tools to improve efficiency while still maintaining a great shopping experience.
Trump says TikTok deal ‘coming soon’ for TikTok U.S
With less than four weeks left under the current deadline, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain. Will a deal be secured in time, or is this just another delay in an already complicated process?
Where Things Stand
Over the weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the status of the TikTok sell-off deal, saying:
“We’re in touch with four different groups about the sale… all options are good.”
Trump also suggested that an announcement could be coming soon, but with no clear details on who is involved or how close a deal actually is, it is difficult to assess what that really means.
The Legal Situation
Under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, TikTok was officially banned in the U.S. as of January 19, 2025. This law also makes platforms and providers liable for allowing TikTok access, with penalties of up to $500 per active U.S. user, a potentially massive financial risk.
Trump delayed the ban with an executive order, giving TikTok 75 more days to secure a deal. However, this delay is not legally enforceable, meaning TikTok is technically still banned. While Trump has assured providers that no penalties will be enforced, that assurance is not legally binding.
What Happens Next?
TikTok representatives have indicated that they have had little direct communication with the Trump administration about the sell-off process, adding to the uncertainty. With the deadline approaching, the company is left waiting to see if a deal will be finalised—or if Trump will simply extend the deadline again.
For now, TikTok remains operational in the U.S., but whether that will still be the case after April 5 is yet to be determined.
TikTok shares tips on creating engaging photo posts
How to Make the Most of Photo Posts on TikTok
If you’re looking for new ways to boost engagement on TikTok, photo posts might be worth exploring. While the platform is best known for short-form video, static images can also capture attention—if used strategically.
To help with this, TikTok has shared a guide on how to make still image posts work for your brand.
Why Try Photo Posts?
TikTok describes its photo feature as a way to connect with your audience through swipeable image sets. This format is ideal for showcasing high-quality visuals, telling a story, or sharing more in-depth content in a format that lets viewers engage at their own pace.
TikTok’s Tips for Effective Photo Posts
If you’re going to use still images, here’s what TikTok recommends to make them as engaging as possible:
Make your title count – A strong title can draw people in and get them to stop scrolling.
Tell a story – Use a sequence of images, text overlays, and audio to keep viewers swiping through.
Include a clear call to action – Whether it’s asking a question, directing people to a link, or encouraging comments, make sure your audience knows what to do next.
Optimise your captions – TikTok allows up to 4,000 characters, giving you plenty of space to add context, share insights, or even turn your post into a mini blog.
Use relevant keywords – This helps with discoverability in TikTok’s search engine, making your content easier to find.
What Kind of Content Works for Photo Posts?
If you’re not sure where to start, TikTok has highlighted some trending themes:
Personal stories – Share behind-the-scenes content, experiences, or interviews.
Event highlights – Give your audience a glimpse into brand events or milestones.
Memes & humour – A great way to engage your audience and make your brand feel more relatable.
Before & afters – Show transformations, whether it’s a project, product, or creative process.
Recipes & tutorials – Break things down into step-by-step visuals.
Info-sharing – Provide educational tips, facts, or insights.
Round-ups – Curate collections of trends, recommendations, or recent events.
Should You Be Using TikTok Photo Posts?
If you have strong visuals and a story to tell, photo posts could be a great addition to your TikTok strategy. They allow you to share more detailed content while still keeping things engaging.
It’s definitely worth experimenting to see how they perform with your audience.
Instagram previews more features of its Edits app
Instagram’s new video editing app, Edits, is nearly here, and they’ve just shared more details about its features—including some that won’t be available at launch.
What is Instagram Edits?
This standalone app is designed to make video editing easier, with a focus on advanced creative tools. It’s set to launch on March 13th, and Instagram has already confirmed a few key features:
• Project Management – You’ll be able to manage multiple video projects at once, all accessible via a dedicated Projects tab.
• Cutouts Tool – A feature that allows you to isolate specific elements within any video clip.
• “Made with Edits” Tag – Clips edited in the app will display a tag when posted to Instagram.
These features join the previously announced tools like AI-generated background editing, still image animation, and new collaboration features.
Not All Features Will Be Available at Launch
While Instagram is working on a range of creative tools, not everything will be ready from day one. However, updates are expected, with Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, confirming that new tools will be tested in Edits first before rolling out to Instagram and Threads.
Given Meta’s ongoing investment in AI, it’s likely we’ll see even more AI-powered editing options in future updates.
Should You Download Instagram Edits?
If you’re a social media manager or content creator, it’s worth checking out. Not only will Edits give you access to new creative tools, but it’ll also be the testing ground for Instagram’s latest features.
The app officially launches next week, so it won’t be long before we can see how useful it actually is.
Pinterest Rolls Out AI-Generated Content Labels
If you’re tired of AI-generated images cluttering your Pinterest feed, good news—Pinterest has officially introduced labels to identify AI-created content.
Why is Pinterest Labeling AI Content?
A recent report from Futurism highlighted how AI-generated images, often linked to spammy websites, are overwhelming some users. In response, Pinterest has confirmed it’s working on AI detection and labeling to provide more transparency.
How Does the AI Labeling Work?
According to Pinterest:
“We have been building labeling of AI-generated or modified content to provide relevant context to users about what they see on Pinterest. We’ll continue to expand these labels in the coming months.”
Pinterest has also updated its official documentation to state:
“Pinterest may display a label in the foreground of an image Pin when we detect that it has been generated or modified with AI. This is in accordance with IPTC standard for photo metadata.”
The IPTC Photo Metadata Standard is commonly used for alt-text descriptions, but it also tracks image editing processes. By leveraging this metadata, Pinterest can flag AI-generated content directly in the feed.
What Do the AI Tags Look Like?
Pinterest has been testing these labels for a few months, and they now appear as “AI generated” or “AI modified”tags in the bottom left corner of an image. Unlike watermarks, these overlays are clearly visible, making AI content easier to spot.
However, the same level of transparency won’t apply to ads:
“For ads on Pinterest, we only display a disclosure in the ‘Why am I seeing this ad?’ section, indicating whether the ad includes modified or AI-generated content, as detected through metadata.”
What’s Next?
So far, the flood of AI-generated content hasn’t significantly impacted Pinterest’s numbers—the platform recently reported a record 553 million monthly active users in Q4. But as AI-generated content continues to grow, this new labeling system is a step towards maintaining trust and quality on the platform.
Instagram is testing a new Preview button for reels
Instagram has officially expanded its Preview button to Reels for some users, making it easier to see how your content will fit into your profile grid before hitting publish.
This update is particularly useful for creators and brands who want to maintain a cohesive aesthetic, ensuring that each Reel aligns with their overall visual style. With this feature, users can check how their new Reel will appear alongside their existing content, including pinned posts, before it goes live.
While it’s not a major functional change, it does offer an extra layer of control over profile presentation—something that can be valuable for planning and refining your content strategy.
For now, the feature is available to select users, and there’s no official timeline for a full rollout. However, if you have access, it could be a helpful tool for curating a more intentional and polished Instagram presence.
Meta gave its Messenger app a new Facebook-blue logo
Messenger has a fresh new look, and if it feels familiar, that’s because it’s now unmistakably Facebook blue.
Gone is the multicoloured gradient that once hinted at cross-platform connections. Instead, Meta has given Messenger a simplified, solid blue logo—the same shade as Facebook’s branding. It’s a subtle but telling shift, reinforcing that Messenger is, first and foremost, a Facebook product.
A Meta spokesperson described the change as part of ongoing design refinements, but there’s more to it than just aesthetics. Messenger was once positioned as a bridge between Facebook and Instagram, allowing users to chat across both platforms. The gradient logo reflected that connection. But in 2023, Meta quietly rolled back those cross-platform messaging features, just as it was arguing that certain EU antitrust regulations shouldn’t apply to Messenger because it was a Facebook feature rather than a standalone app.
Now, with a return to Facebook’s signature blue, the message is clear: Messenger belongs to Facebook. In fact, the app’s brand guide now states outright, “Messenger is a messaging app from Facebook.”
It’s a small but strategic move, and while Meta has agreed to open Messenger and WhatsApp to third-party chats in the EU under the Digital Markets Act, this branding shift suggests that its long-term vision for Messenger is deeply tied to Facebook.
Instagram explains how watch time affects video reach
If you’ve ever worried that posting longer videos on Instagram might hurt your reach—good news! Instagram’s Adam Mosseri has shed some light on how watch time really works, and it’s not as punishing as you might think.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Watch time isn’t just about percentage completed – Instagram also considers total seconds watched, so longer videos aren’t automatically at a disadvantage.
• Completion rate still matters – The more of your video people watch, the better, but you won’t be penalised if viewers don’t make it to the end.
• Longer Reels are here to stay – With Instagram now allowing up to 3-minute Reels, it’s clear they’re encouraging more long-form content.
So, should you start posting longer videos? If they hold attention, absolutely. But don’t stretch content just for the sake of it—focus on quality, pacing, and keeping viewers engaged for as long as possible.
Meta updates on policy enforcement and content trends
Meta has released its latest report on content engagement, policy enforcement, and platform trends. If you’ve noticed a drop in Facebook traffic or a shift in what appears on your feed, this report sheds some light on why.
Key Takeaways:
• Facebook is more link-averse than ever – A massive 97.9% of views on U.S. Facebook posts in Q4 2024 were on posts without links. Meta has been de-prioritising external links for years, making organic referrals increasingly difficult.
• Engagement is dominated by light entertainment – The most viewed content includes Christmas-themed posts, celebrity updates, and heartwarming stories, reinforcing the platform’s shift toward casual, feel-good content.
• Rule enforcement remains steady – No major spikes in violations, but Meta noted an increase in violent & graphic content on Instagram due to changes in detection technology.
• Fake accounts make up ~3% of monthly active users – A lower estimate than Meta’s usual 5%, possibly reflecting improved detection methods.
• Russian influence operations are shifting focus – The “Doppelganger” operation, previously targeting the U.S. and Ukraine, has pivoted to Germany, France, and Israel.
What This Means for You:
If you’re relying on Facebook for traffic, it’s time to rethink your strategy. Organic reach for links is dwindling, and content that performs well leans heavily into viral, easily digestible entertainment. Understanding these trends can help you create content that actually gets seen.
TikTok’s Creator Marketplace will be no more after the 1st of April
TikTok is officially retiring its Creator Marketplace and Creative Center, shifting everything to its new TikTok Oneplatform. This change consolidates TikTok’s creative tools, making it easier for brands and creators to manage collaborations, track performance, and run campaigns—all in one place.
Here’s what you need to know:
March 1st – You’ll no longer be able to create new campaigns or accept creator applications in Creator Marketplace.
April 1st – Creator Marketplace will shut down entirely and redirect to TikTok One.
If you already use Creator Marketplace, your past campaigns and collaborations will carry over, but you’ll need to log in and upgrade your account to access TikTok One. The transition is automatic, but ensuring permissions are set up correctly will avoid any disruptions.
Why does this matter?
TikTok One aims to streamline brand-creator partnerships by offering improved analytics, campaign management tools, and access to new features like Creative Challenges. If you’re using TikTok for marketing, now’s the time to explore the platform and get familiar with its new workflow.
While the switch isn’t optional, understanding how TikTok One operates early will give you an edge in maximising reach and engagement on the platform.
TikTok launches refreshed desktop app
TikTok has rolled out a refreshed desktop app designed to better mirror its mobile experience, making it easier to browse, engage, and even go live from your computer.
Here’s what’s new:
• Full-Screen Modular Design – The layout now feels more like the mobile app, reducing distractions and optimising navigation for larger screens.
• Revamped ‘For You’ & Explore Feeds – Content discovery has been improved to better suit desktop viewing.
• Enhanced Live Streaming – Creators can now go live in portrait or landscape mode, offering a seamless viewing experience across devices. This is especially useful for gaming streamers who prefer horizontal formats.
• Floating Player & Collections – A floating video player (for Chrome users) lets you watch TikToks while multitasking, and a Collections feature helps you organise saved clips.
While most users will still favour the mobile app, this update makes desktop TikTok more functional for creators and casual viewers alike. Whether you’re watching or streaming, the desktop experience now aligns more closely with how TikTok is meant to be used.
Instagram may be exploring a separate Reels app
Instagram may be exploring a separate app for Reels, according to a report from The Information. Instagram chief Adam Mosseri has reportedly discussed the idea with staff, suggesting a move toward a TikTok-style experience with a full-screen, scrolling feed of short-form videos.
Why This Matters:
• Reels’ Growing Popularity – Meta’s short-form video format now drives 200 billion views per day across Instagram and Facebook, outperforming traditional feed posts.
• Longer Reels & AI Recommendations – Instagram has been pushing three-minute videos and AI-driven content discovery, which could support a standalone app.
• Potential Risks – Moving Reels out of Instagram could fragment engagement, potentially reducing time spent on the main app.
Would users switch between two apps, or would a separate Reels platform compete with Instagram itself? That’s the key question Meta will need to answer. For now, the idea is reportedly under internal discussion, but if launched, it could signal Meta’s latest attempt to take on TikTok directly.
Snapchat shares how the app ranks content for Snap Map
With the launch of Promoted Places, businesses may want to understand how Snapchat ranks content on Snap Map to improve visibility. Snapchat’s ranking system is based on three key factors:
Human Moderation – Content must meet Snapchat’s guidelines, with auto-moderation and human reviewers filtering out violations. Certain locations, like schools and hospitals, have additional restrictions.
Contextual Relevance – Snap Map groups related content based on nearby Snaps. For example, a Snap of a burger might be tagged to a nearby restaurant, helping users discover relevant locations.
Recency & User Activity – The Snap Map prioritises recent posts, especially in City Stories. Place Stories are ranked based on engagement, and Snapchat highlights locations visited by your friends.
How to Improve Visibility
• Encourage customers to tag your location in their Snaps.
• Ask them to engage with your Place Story to boost its ranking.
• Consider Promoted Places for added exposure.
With 350 million monthly users, Snap Map offers strong potential for local businesses looking to boost discovery.
Pinterest plans to roll out more transparent AI labeling on posts
Pinterest is stepping up its efforts to label AI-generated content more clearly after concerns over the rise of AI-driven spam on the platform.
The Issue
A recent report from Futurism highlighted that AI-generated images are flooding Pinterest, ranking high in search results across categories like fashion, DIY, beauty, food, and home inspiration. Many of these posts link to low-quality AI content farms designed to generate ad revenue rather than provide value.
Initially, Pinterest denied this was an issue. However, after the report was published, the platform revised its stance, confirming:
“We have been building labeling of AI-generated or modified content to provide relevant context to users about what they see on Pinterest. We’ll continue to expand these labels in the coming months.”
What This Means
• Users will soon see more transparent AI labels on Pins.
• Pinterest may also limit the reach of AI-generated spam—though it’s unclear how this aligns with its own AI-powered ad tools.
The Bigger Picture
The rise of AI-generated content raises questions about authenticity in social media. While platforms push AI tools for creativity and ads, users still crave real, human-driven content.
LinkedIn tests alternate feed of updates from only your connections
LinkedIn is testing a new feed option that allows users to see updates only from their first-degree connections, making it easier to keep up with colleagues and industry peers.
How It Works
• Users will see two feed tabs:
• “All” (the default, showing algorithm-curated content).
• “My Network” (showing only posts from your connections and followed pages).
• The test will run for five weeks as LinkedIn gathers feedback.
Why This Matters
LinkedIn’s own research shows that users engage more with content from their peers, so this feed could boost in-network interactions. However, it’s worth noting that:
• The algorithmic feed remains the default, meaning users must manually switch to “My Network” each time they open the app.
• LinkedIn is also removing the “Sort” filter on desktop for users outside the UK, EEA, and EU, making it harder to sort by recency.
This test suggests LinkedIn is exploring more user control over feeds, but whether it sticks depends on engagement levels.
If you’ve found this helpful, share it with your network or drop me a message with your thoughts and feedback. Until next time, keep shining and be creative online!
Natty Bernasconi | Instagram Expert & Educator
Social Media Strategy for Lifestyle Businesses & Creators
Empowering brands with tailored Instagram strategies and aesthetic-driven insights. Follow for weekly tips, industry updates, and coaching designed to elevate your brand’s online presence—making it as captivating as it is strategic.