Instagram Introduces Unskippable Ad Feature
Instagram has rolled out an intriguing new feature that will change how users interact with ads. The platform’s ‘ad break’ will present unskippable advertisements, which will include a countdown timer before users regain access to their feed. Meta has stated this feature is part of its ongoing commitment to exploring ad formats that align with user engagement trends and advertiser requirements. While this may enhance advertising effectiveness, user reactions to being unable to skip ads are likely to be less favourable.
BeReal’s Acquisition by Voodoo
In a significant shake-up within the social media realm, French gaming publisher Voodoo has acquired BeReal for a staggering €500 million. The acquisition comes as BeReal has struggled to maintain its user base, seeking new ownership to address funding challenges. This move is expected to open new avenues for enhancing the app’s functionality, particularly in marketing. However, this shift raises concerns about the original ethos of BeReal, which was all about authenticity, leading many users to question the platform’s future direction.
Instagram’s Stance on Engagement Baiting
Recently, Instagram released a video advising creators and brands against using specific calls to action intended to drive engagement, such as shares and comments. They clarified that any content perceived to directly solicit engagement would not receive recommendations on the platform. This message, though seemingly consistent with Instagram’s long-standing policy against engagement bait, was quickly removed, leaving many puzzled. As such, content creators may need to rethink their strategies and approach to automation that typically encourages such engagement.
Google’s $13.6 Billion Advertising Lawsuit
Google finds itself embroiled in a monumental £13.6 billion lawsuit regarding its dominance in the online advertising sphere. The lawsuit, initiated by Ad Tech Collective Action LLP, claims that the tech giant’s practices have harmed competition and led to significant financial losses for UK publishers. Despite Alphabet’s attempts to dismiss the allegation, a court has ruled that the case will proceed to trial. With significant implications for Google’s business model hanging in the balance, the outcome could reshape the advertising landscape.
ByteDance’s New App, Whee
In an unexpected move, ByteDance has unveiled a new app named Whee, closely resembling Instagram in functionality. Available now on Android, Whee aims to provide users with a more private sharing experience by allowing photo sharing exclusively with friends. This development raises eyebrows, particularly given ByteDance’s recent rollout of TikTok Notes, which similarly borrows elements from existing platforms. This strategic approach may hint at a testing ground for features before broader integration into their flagship applications.
TikTok’s Virtual Influencer Marketing
TikTok is stepping into the future of digital marketing with the launch of its Symphony marketing management feature, allowing brands to create virtual characters for promotional purposes during live streams. These digital avatars, available as both Stock and Custom options, aim to engage users while significantly cutting costs associated with traditional marketing efforts. This concept, already popular in the East, signifies a growing acceptance of digital influencers in Western markets, suggesting a new trend on the horizon.
Pinterest’s Summer Trend Report for 2024
Pinterest has released its much-anticipated trend report for summer 2024, showcasing a vibrant array of styles and tastes. The report emphasises self-expression as a central theme, influencing upcoming trends across various domains including fashion, beauty, home decor, and food. Among the highlighted trends are maximalist summer fashion, nostalgia-driven aesthetics from the 90s, and unique culinary twists. These insights position Pinterest as a critical resource for trend discovery and paint a picture of an exciting and bold summer ahead.
YouTube’s Community Notes Testing
YouTube is joining the ranks of social platforms by testing a community notes feature. This new functionality enables users to add context to videos, helping to clarify content for viewers. The notes will be made public and will undergo an algorithmic assessment for accuracy and relevance before being displayed. Currently being tested in the U.S. mobile app, this feature aims to enhance viewer interaction and enrich the content experience.
TikTok Improves Product Search
Continuing its evolution into a multifaceted platform, TikTok is testing a new image search capability within TikTok Shop. Users can upload or take photos to find matching products, directly competing with search engines like Google and e-commerce giants such as Amazon. This move not only encourages users to shop within the app but also underlines TikTok’s ambition to broaden its scope within the digital marketplace.
Asda’s Initiative Against Loneliness
Amid rising concerns around social isolation, Asda has launched the ‘Nanzones’ initiative, aiming to address loneliness among older individuals. According to their Togetherness Tracker, a significant portion of the elderly population feels isolated, particularly during big events like football tournaments. The Nanzones, located in select Asda stores across the UK, offer a communal space for fans to gather and enjoy matches together, reinforcing the supermarket’s commitment to fostering community bonds. Alongside this initiative, Asda urges the public to check in on elderly friends and relatives throughout the summer.
This summary of June’s social media updates underscores the dynamic and rapidly changing nature of digital platforms, impacting both users and businesses alike.
