Social media platforms are evolving faster than ever, and keeping up with the latest updates can feel overwhelming. One minute, you're adjusting to a new feature—next thing you know, there's a fresh algorithm tweak or a policy change shaking things up.

But don’t worry—we’ve got your back!

In this monthly recap, we’re breaking down the most important social media updates from March. From major AI advancements to new engagement features, here’s everything you need to stay ahead. Bookmark this page so you never miss a beat. Let’s dive in!

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March 03 - March 07

1. Meta Expands Use of Face ID for Security Purposes

Meta is expanding facial recognition to high-profile users in the U.K., EU, and South Korea to combat scams and aid account recovery. The system verifies “celeb-bait” ads by matching faces with stored profiles, reducing fraud risks.

While Meta ensures facial data is deleted when no longer needed, privacy concerns remain. After shutting down Facebook’s face recognition in 2021, Meta is cautiously reintroducing the tech for security and future metaverse applications, including realistic avatars.

2. TikTok Looks To Move Into Services To Expand In-App Spending

TikTok is expanding into local services in the U.S., hiring in major cities to connect businesses with creators. This follows Douyin’s success in China, where users can order food, book rides, and more within the app. The goal is to drive in-app spending and boost monetization.

With U.S. users increasingly shopping on TikTok, this move could unlock huge revenue potential. Douyin’s 2024 GMV hit $490B, while TikTok's was just $30B. By integrating services like Uber and DoorDash, TikTok aims to replicate its Chinese success.

3. Instagram Begins Live Testing of ‘Blend’ Reels Sharing Feature

Instagram is expanding its testing of "Blend," a new messaging feature that creates a shared feed of AI-recommended Reels for you and a friend. Instead of manually sending Reels, Blend compiles suggestions based on each person's interactions. This aims to enhance engagement and streamline content sharing.

While it fosters a collaborative experience, the feature may not appeal to users with diverse interests. Instagram's chief, Adam Mosseri, is optimistic, pushing for a broader rollout in 2025. Whether it becomes a hit remains to be seen, but it reflects IG’s growing focus on messaging-driven engagement.

4. Pinterest Begins Labeling Generative AI Content

Pinterest is now labeling AI-generated images to combat the rising influx of AI “slop” overwhelming users. The labels, based on IPTC metadata standards, appear on image Pins to provide transparency. However, ads will only disclose AI content in the “Why am I seeing this ad?” section.

Additionally, Pinterest introduced an opt-out toggle for users who don’t want their Pins used for AI training, though it's enabled by default. Despite AI-generated content, Pinterest reported a record-high 553M monthly users in Q4. The platform continues refining AI detection and transparency measures.

5. X Adds Feed Sorting Options for Communities

X has introduced new sorting options for Communities, allowing users to organize posts by trending topics, popularity (likes), and chronological order. These updates make it easier to track active discussions. Users can also filter posts by their own contributions.

The update enhances discovery by making all X Communities public, similar to Reddit’s structure. Users can now find relevant community posts through search, potentially boosting engagement. This change aims to create more specialized, focused conversations within the platform.

March 10 - March 14

6. Meta Launches Community Notes on Facebook and Instagram

Meta is rolling out Community Notes on Facebook and Instagram, modeled after X’s system, allowing users to add context to posts through crowd-sourced fact-checking. The notes will only be published if contributors from differing viewpoints agree, aiming to reduce bias.

Meta will first launch Community Notes in the U.S. with 200,000 contributors, gradually expanding globally. Unlike traditional fact-checking, this system won’t impose reach penalties but may still allow misinformation to spread due to gaps in consensus. Despite research supporting its potential, the system’s effectiveness depends on whether critical notes actually reach users.

7. Instagram Experiments With AI-Generated Comments on Posts

Instagram is testing AI-generated comments, allowing users to select pre-written responses instead of writing their own. The feature, marked by a "pencil with a star" icon, generates suggested comments based on post content. This move follows LinkedIn's AI comments and Gmail's suggested replies.

Meta is also developing AI bot profiles that mimic human interactions, potentially boosting engagement. These bots could make posts appear more popular, encouraging real users to interact more. While this may drive engagement, it raises concerns about authenticity, making social media feel less human and more automated.

8. TikTok Adds More Flexible Options for Sellers

TikTok has introduced new seller features, including automated aftersales request approvals, flexible return windows (14-90 days), and PO Box delivery exclusions. Sellers can also set final sale items, custom cancelation timeframes, and extended order handling times (up to 7 days).

These updates offer sellers more control over their sales and shipping processes while aligning with local regulations. However, businesses must balance flexibility with customer expectations to maintain trust and sales performance on the platform.

9. Facebook Adds Stories to Its Creator Monetization Program

Facebook has expanded its creator monetization program to include Facebook Stories, allowing creators to earn from their Stories content. This update follows Meta’s shift to a performance-based payout model, rewarding engagement rather than ad placement. Eligible creators are automatically enrolled, while others can sign up to participate.

This move aims to keep creators engaged, as only a small percentage of users actively post content. Meta is also testing monetization options for Threads. By providing more earning opportunities, Meta seeks to sustain creator activity and maintain engagement across its platforms.

10. Oracle Emerges as Most Likely Partner for US TikTok Deal

Oracle is emerging as the top contender to partner with TikTok in the U.S., following reports that ByteDance favors the deal. This follows Oracle’s previous involvement in TikTok’s U.S. data separation project, Project Texas. The deal aims to satisfy U.S. regulations requiring TikTok’s American operations to be under U.S. ownership.

The Chinese government remains opposed to a full sell-off, refusing to share TikTok’s algorithm with a U.S. partner. Trump, once an opponent of TikTok, is now pushing for a deal, citing his popularity on the app. An official announcement is expected early next month, determining TikTok’s future in the U.S.

March 17 - March 21

11. Data Shows That Longer Clips Are Gaining Traction on TikTok

Recent data suggests that longer short-form videos (around 3 minutes) are gaining traction on TikTok and other platforms. Instagram and YouTube have also extended their video lengths, reflecting a shift in user engagement preferences. Studies show that TikTok videos over one minute receive 63.8% more watch time than shorter clips.

This trend signals a growing audience interest in slightly longer content while maintaining short-form appeal. Longer watch times boost engagement, positively influencing TikTok's algorithm and reach. Marketers and creators should experiment with extended video formats to maximize engagement.

12. Meta Continues To Integrate AI Bot Profiles Into Its Apps

Meta is steadily integrating AI-powered bot profiles into Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. Features like AI Studio allow users to create and interact with AI characters, enhancing engagement. These bots will have profiles, bios, and the ability to post and comment like real users.

While Meta aims to boost engagement and ad revenue, concerns arise over the psychological impact of AI-driven interactions. The push for rapid AI integration mirrors past social media pitfalls, potentially leading to unintended consequences. Despite these risks, Meta continues its AI expansion to dominate the evolving digital landscape.

13. X Now Enables You To Edit Elements of Images With Grok

X (formerly Twitter) has introduced AI-powered image editing via its Grok chatbot, allowing users to modify specific elements within images. This feature, similar to tools like DALL·E, integrates directly into X’s creation flow, making image customization more accessible. Instagram is also experimenting with similar AI editing features.

The update is part of X’s broader AI push, including video generation following its Hotshot acquisition. While full AI-powered video creation is still developing, platforms like YouTube and Meta are also advancing in this space. X Premium users get early access to Grok’s tools, while regular users can use core features.

14. LinkedIn Adds Calendly Integration for Profile CTA Buttons

LinkedIn has introduced a Calendly integration for Premium users, enabling them to add a "Book an Appointment" button to their profiles. This feature directs visitors to their Calendly schedules, simplifying meeting bookings. The update aims to boost engagement and lead generation.

LinkedIn reports that custom CTA buttons, introduced in 2023, have increased profile views by 25%. While views alone aren't the goal, the feature enhances user interaction and response opportunities. This integration offers a streamlined way for professionals to connect directly with potential clients or collaborators.

15. Meta Adds a Range of AI-Powered Ad Updates for Facebook and Instagram

Meta has introduced AI-powered tools to enhance ad performance on Facebook and Instagram, using its Andromeda system to optimize targeting. These updates improve ad placement by analyzing user engagement and predicting relevant ads. Advertisers can now leverage AI-driven Advantage+ sales campaigns for better conversions.

Meta is expanding Advantage+ Catalog ads to partnership promotions, allowing influencer collaborations. A new feature also lets ads display related products from a catalog, increasing ROAS by 14%. Additionally, AI-generated models will showcase clothing on different body types, similar to Google Shopping.

March 24 - March 28

16. Instagram Is Adding ‘Re-Posts’ To Amplify Content

Instagram is adding a "Re-Posts" feature, letting users share posts and reels directly to followers' feeds. Previously, content could only be shared via Stories. This update, similar to Twitter’s retweet, could boost engagement and reach.

The change aligns with Instagram’s AI-driven feed, which mixes recommendations and friend interactions. It raises questions about the platform’s algorithm, as it continues to prioritize suggested content. Instagram hasn’t confirmed how much visibility reposts will get but says followers "may" see them.

17. X Adds React With Video Options To Boost Video Engagement

X is expanding its video features to reinforce its “video-first” strategy. The new “React with video” option lets users reply with video responses, similar to TikTok’s green screen effect but tailored for X.

X is also testing an AI-powered feature that overlays a user’s video on a post. This aims to make reactions more engaging, encouraging more video-based interactions. While X claims video views are up 40% YoY, shifting users to a video-first approach remains a challenge.

18. Meta Adds Improved Tools To Facilitate Creator Collaborations for Promotions

Meta’s Creator Marketplace now offers AI-powered tools to help brands find influencers. Updates include a Partnership Ads Hub, improved search filters, and performance metrics to identify top creators.

Meta also expanded its Marketing API, making it easier to integrate creator content into ad campaigns. These updates aim to boost influencer collaborations and ad performance, especially on Reels.

19. Instagram Removes Notes From Feed Posts and Reels

Instagram is removing the option to add text notes to feed posts and Reels, focusing on simplifying the app. While notes in DMs gained popularity, their extension to posts and Reels didn’t catch on, prompting Instagram to remove the feature.

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri emphasized the need to cut underused features to keep the platform user-friendly. The company will continue experimenting with ways to make Instagram more social while removing clutter. Expect the change to roll out soon.

20. Instagram Adds Double Speed Playback Option for Reels

Instagram has introduced a 2x speed playback option for Reels, allowing users to watch videos faster. This feature, highly requested by users, aims to enhance viewing control and accommodate longer Reels.

To activate, users long-press the screen’s edge. The update aligns with trends of faster media consumption, similar to TikTok and YouTube. Instagram expects this addition to improve user engagement and experience.

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