During the second week of August 2024, social media platforms underwent crucial developments and changes that are redefining the digital environment. This week introduced several important updates and highlighted new trends, significantly influencing how we interact online. Here’s a recap of the leading stories that are driving these changes and reshaping our social media experiences.

1. Threads Testing Topic Discovery Feature

Threads is trialing a topic discovery feature aimed at simplifying the process for users to locate discussions on subjects of interest, particularly concerning current events. The new feature introduces a blue link within the home feed, which, when clicked, reveals a topic-specific feed that can be sorted by either recency or popularity of posts.

2. LinkedIn Introduces New Verification Badge for Company Pages

LinkedIn is implementing a new verification process for company pages on its platform, following the earlier release of verification for individual profiles this year. Presently, companies must join a waitlist to have their pages verified, with criteria including the accuracy of key information such as location, active page administrators, and adherence to LinkedIn's policies.

3. Meta Considering Celebrity-Voiced AI Bots

Meta is exploring ways to make chat-bots more engaging by potentially incorporating celebrity voices. The platform is reportedly in talks with several well-known figures, such as Awkwafina and Judi Dench, to secure rights for using their voices. It remains to be seen if this idea will gain widespread acceptance.

4. Snapchat Reaches 11 Million Subscribers

Snapchat, in its Q2 update, reported that its subscriber base has grown to 11 million paying members. The app has concentrated on offering its Snapchat+ subscribers valuable tools and features that enhance user connectivity.

5. Instagram Emphasizes Reach Metrics

Instagram has shifted its focus towards view counts, moving away from likes and follows as the primary metrics of performance. The platform recently announced that views will now be the key metric across all content types, including photos, carousels, Stories, and Reels. This is part of a broader strategy to consistently reward reach across the platform's content.
Instagram's chief, Adam Mosseri, clarified that "views" will be the main metric but stressed the importance of tracking "sends per reach" for a holistic view of content performance.

6.TikTok Expands into TV and Movie Discovery
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TikTok is collaborating with Hollywood studios, including Warner Bros., to introduce a new in-app feature called Spotlight. This feature will allow users to see Spotlight links on relevant creator videos, leading to a page similar to IMDb that includes cast details, story summaries, related videos, and links to streaming services and ticket purchases.

TikTok has emerged as a hub for unofficial TV and movie clips. While some studios have issued copyright strikes, others, like Paramount, have embraced the trend, with Paramount even posting the entire movie "Mean Girls" on TikTok for a day, garnering over 7 million views.

7. Facebook's New Approach to Community Standards Violations

Facebook is introducing a new system for managing Community Standards violations, initially targeting users in Professional Mode. First-time offenders will receive in-app training instead of immediate penalties, with successful completion removing the warning from their record. A second violation within a year results in a permanent warning, which may affect reach and monetization. Facebook intends to extend this system to more users in the coming months.

8. Instagram Expands Carousel Post Capacity

Instagram has updated its carousel post feature, doubling the number of photos and videos users can include in a single post from 10 to 20. This enhancement will begin rolling out globally on 9th August 2024.

9. Instagram to Implement Screenshot Blocking for DMs

Instagram is developing a new feature that will prevent users from taking screenshots of temporary direct messages, including those sent in "Vanish Mode" or with "View Once" settings enabled.

10. TikTok’s 2024 Shopping Trend Report

TikTok’s "What's Next 2024 Shopping Trend Report" examines how consumers are changing their shopping behaviors amid economic challenges. The report highlights three main trend categories for marketers: Bending Emotions (seeking joy and control), Bending Communities (forming supportive groups), and Bending Relationships (evolving brand-consumer dynamics). Emerging trends include "Brandship," "Buy it for Life," and the integration of AI in shopping experiences.

Takeaway

These highlights showcase the ever-changing nature of social media, focusing on technological advancements, improved user experiences, and emerging regulatory hurdles. 

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