Category: social networks
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Introducing Snap OS 2.0
The introduction of Snap OS 2.0 enhances the fifth-generation Spectacles by offering improved interfaces and utilities for content enjoyment and communication. Key updates include a revamped browser with WebXR support, a new Spotlight Lens for immersive experiences, and a Gallery Lens for easy sharing. Exciting developments in AR gaming are also anticipated.
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Spotify’s Free Features Aimed to Enhancing User Experience
Spotify is enhancing its free experience, allowing users to easily play, search, and share music. New features include personalized playlists, custom cover art, and daily playlists called “daylist” that reflect user moods. Users can explore new music through recommendations and interact deeper with tracks via available lyrics, improving overall engagement with the platform.
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Introducing Infinite Retention and Group Streaks by Snapchat
Snapchat has introduced Infinite Retention and Group Streaks to personalize chats. Infinite Retention allows users to save individual conversations indefinitely, while Group Streaks enable collective interaction among groups, promoting participation. Streaks are optional and can be restored within a week if they end, enhancing community engagement.
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Snapchat Turns 14
Snap CEO Evan Spiegel addressed the team, emphasizing the need to regain momentum following a slowdown in ad revenue. He outlined strategies to target medium-sized customers, enhance Snap’s ad platform, and boost direct revenue through Snapchat+. Spiegel also highlighted challenges, but encouraged unity to redefine personal computing and achieve long-term growth.
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A New Way to Create with Snapchat’s Imagine Lenses
Snapchat introduces the Imagine Lens, an Open Prompt Image Generation feature exclusive to Lens+ and Snapchat+ Platinum subscribers. Users can create and edit Snaps using prompts, sharing them easily with friends or on Stories. Over 400 million users have engaged with Gen AI Lenses, highlighting their growing popularity.
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Introducing Instagram for iPad, designed for bigger screens
Instagram is now available on iPad, designed for a larger screen experience. Users can enjoy Reels prominently, access a new “Following” tab for updates, and view posts easily. The app maximizes screen space for features and interactions, rolling out globally on iPadOS 15.1 and later, with Android support forthcoming.
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Attach Text to Your Threads Posts and Share Longer Perspectives
Threads is introducing a feature allowing users to attach up to 10,000 characters of text to posts. This enhancement aids expression and promotion of off-platform content, fostering connections around shared interests. Users can link their work, enabling deeper conversations and engagement, ultimately improving the creator experience. Feedback will be continuously gathered.
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LinkedIn Launches first AI agent for recruiters, to launch globally in English
LinkedIn’s Hiring Assistant, an AI agent for recruiters, will be available globally in English by September. Launched to select customers in October, it’s already aiding companies in hiring efficiently, significantly reducing sourcing time, and improving candidate engagement. Early users report enhanced outcomes, highlighting its role as a strategic partner in recruitment.
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New Instagram Features to Help You Connect
Instagram is launching features like reposts, allowing users to share public reels and posts, and a map to selectively share locations with friends. A new “Friends” tab in Reels showcases friends’ interactions, promoting engagement. These updates aim to enhance connections among users while ensuring privacy and encouraging creativity among content creators.
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Meta is getting rid of fact checkers. Zuckerberg acknowledged more harmful content will appear on the platforms now
Meta is redefining its content moderation approach on Facebook and Instagram, replacing fact checkers with user-generated “community notes,” a decision aimed at reducing perceived political bias. CEO Mark Zuckerberg admitted this could lead to more harmful content, while acknowledging a shift towards less censorship amid the upcoming Trump administration.
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Meta to Building AI Technology in a Responsible and Transparent Way Starting With The UK
Meta will begin training AI using public content from adults on Facebook and Instagram in the UK, aiming to reflect British culture. The company emphasizes transparency by excluding private messages and underage accounts. Users will receive notifications regarding data use and can object to their data being utilized, with enhanced clarity in the objection process.
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Meta Launches New Ways For Businesses To Have More Meaningful Conversations On WhatsApp
The first WhatsApp Business Summit in India introduced features and initiatives to support small businesses in enhancing customer connections. Key offerings include Meta Verified for credibility, customized messaging capabilities, and the WhatsApp Business Yatra for training. These updates aim to help businesses maximize success and growth during the festive season.
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Four Must-Use Spotify Features That Bring You Closer to Your Favorite Artists
Spotify provides various ways for fans to connect with their favorite artists, including Listening Parties, Countdown Pages, a Live Events feed, and artist Clips. These features enable fans to engage with new music, interact in real-time, discover concerts, and explore behind-the-scenes content, enhancing their relationship with artists.
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YouTube’s AI Development and New tools to Protect Content Creators
YouTube is dedicated to responsible AI development, empowering creators with tools to harness AI’s potential while protecting their likeness. New technologies for managing AI-generated content are being created, enhancing human creativity without replacement. YouTube emphasizes safeguarding content, providing creators control over their work, and adhering to community guidelines alongside innovative offerings.
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What is Telegram and why was its CEO arrested in Paris?
Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, was arrested in Paris for alleged illicit activity on the messaging app. Telegram, with over 950 million users, allows large group chats but lacks end-to-end encryption. Durov faces charges related to permitting criminal activity on the platform. The response to his arrest and criticism of Telegram’s content moderation has…
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TikTok and NFL renew partnership with multiyear agreement to further enrich the football fan experience
TikTok has become a key platform for NFL content, amassing over 11 million posts across relevant hashtags. Following a multiyear partnership initiation in 2019, TikTok’s official NFL account has gained significant popularity. A recent extension aims to enhance fan engagement through more in-depth content, showcasing the NFL’s unique culture and connection with fans globally.
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YouTube’s New Collaborative Approach to Teen Supervision on Social Media
YouTube is launching a new supervised experience for teens, allowing parents and teens to link accounts for shared insights on channel activity. The Family Center hub will provide notifications on uploads and livestreams, fostering communication about responsible content creation. This initiative aims to empower teens while ensuring parental involvement.
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Snapchat turns 13 – a note from CEO Evan Spiegel
Over the past year, the business successfully improved revenue growth, sustainability, and community engagement. The company aims to sustain this growth, accelerate advertising business, and diversify revenue. The focus is on evolving ad products, leveraging unique user insights, and new ad placements. Additionally, the company is investing in augmented reality glasses to create new market…
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Snapchat roles out new creative and customization features in August
Snapchat now offers even more ways to personalize and enliven communication. Subscribers can set custom ringtones for friends, replay their own snaps, and use lyric stickers for musical snaps. New Bitmoji Stories feature 3D avatars, while an AI Lens lets users star on billboards. These updates enhance the app’s creative and interactive experience.
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Snapchat Launches New Tools and Resources for Educators as Teens Head Back to School
Snapchat is a popular platform for over 20 million U.S. teens. To support their digital well-being, Snapchat has launched new safety tools and resources for educators. This includes an “Educator’s Guide to Snapchat,” developed with expert partners, and a feedback form for educators. These resources aim to create safe and supportive digital environments for students.
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Meta Releases New Features on Threads for Creators and Businesses
Meta announced new Threads web features, including insights, multiple drafts, and scheduling functions to improve content planning and audience connections. The insights offer metrics to understand followers and post performance, while the multiple drafts feature allows saving up to 100 ideas. Additionally, the scheduling feature allows planning and posting content in advance.
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Save the Date: Snap Partner Summit, September 17, 2024 & Lens Fest, September 18-19, 2024
Snapchat will hold its 6th annual Snap Partner Summit on September 17 at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, CA. The event aims to unite partners, creators, and developers to introduce new products and celebrate the Snapchat community. Additionally, the 7th Lens Fest on September 18 and 19 will spotlight AR innovation and tools.
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Keep up with Paris 2024 Olympics on select official broadcasters’ and the Olympics channels on YouTube
The Paris Olympics are back from July 26 to August 11, offering 40 sports and nonstop action. Viewers can watch official highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and commentary on select broadcasters’ channels. With NBCUniversal’s coverage on YouTube TV in the US and multiview options in Latin America, there are plenty of ways to experience the Games.
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Create Your Own Custom AI on Meta With AI Studio
AI Studio is being launched for creating and discovering chat AIs without the need for technical skills. Users can make AIs for various purposes and customize them extensively. Instagram creators can use AIs to efficiently engage with their followers and ensure transparency. The platform aims to make AI creativity accessible to everyone, starting with the…
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Meta’s New AI Model Can Segment Anything – Even Video
The Segment Anything Model 2 (SAM 2) is a breakthrough unified model that can identify target object pixels in images and videos. It enables real-time object segmentation across all frames of a video, leading to new possibilities in video editing and mixed reality experiences. SAM 2’s applications range from scientific imagery analysis to medical image…
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How Snapchat Celebrated the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The Paris Olympics and Paralympics will be accessible to fans worldwide through Snapchat. Official broadcasters such as NBCUniversal and WBD will offer highlights and unique perspectives, and augmented reality experiences will provide an immersive viewing experience. Content creators like Livvy Dunne and Harry Jowsey will cover various events, while creative tools like stickers and filters…
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Spotify Bringing More Audiobooks From Independent Authors With Ingram Partnership
Spotify has partnered with Ingram Content Group, a major distributor for independent publishers, to bring over 100 Ingram-distributed audiobooks to the platform. This includes titles from renowned authors like Ada Limón and Bob Proctor. The collaboration aims to expand the reach of independent authors and publishers, providing diverse audiobook options.
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New Spotify Features for Artists, Including Countdown Pages To Promote Their Upcoming Albums
Spotify for Artists now offers Countdown Pages, allowing artists with at least 5,000 active listeners to create hype for upcoming albums. This feature lets fans presave albums, preview track lists, watch clips, and purchase merch on Spotify. Artists such as Taylor Swift and Meghan Trainor have seen increased presaves and engagement, demonstrating the tool’s effectiveness.
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Meta AI Is Now Multilingual, More Creative and Smarter
Meta AI is now available in seven new languages and more countries, including in Latin America. New creative tools make it easier to bring your vision to life, and you can now use the largest open-source model for tough math and coding questions. These updates are part of the ongoing effort to enhance user experiences…
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TikTok partners with Eventbrite to simplify event promotion and creation for the global TikTok Community
TikTok has partnered with Eventbrite to empower event creators to promote and sell tickets across various categories directly on the platform. This collaboration allows TikTok users to also host events on Eventbrite, promoting and selling tickets to the TikTok community. The partnership aims to connect diverse audiences and foster real-world experiences.
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TikTok Announces New Ways To Share moments using their Direct Messaging Feature
TikTok is a global hub for entertainment and connection. New updates include Stickers for creative visual chat options and Group Chat for shared viewing experiences. Safety measures are in place, restricting Group Chat for users aged 13-15 and ensuring communication with strangers is blocked for teens. The platform seeks to enhance the entertainment experience through…
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Inspiring creation with YouTube Shorts with Six New Tools that are Coming Soon
Auto layout on Android tracks and enhances main video subjects for Shorts. Text can now be narrated, and creators can spark community engagement with the “Add yours” sticker. New Minecraft effects and stylized captions offer more creativity, while the option to remix a remix allows for unique content contributions. YouTube continues to innovate Shorts features.
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Spotify Now Allows Comments on Podcasts to Give Creators and Listeners More Ways To Engage
Spotify is launching a new way for podcast creators to engage with their fans through Comments and an updated mobile app. The Comments feature aims to create a two-way conversation between creators and listeners, while the app provides easier show management. With a focus on enhancing interaction, the update intends to strengthen relationships and foster…
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Snapchat Announces New Features to Make Your Account Uniquely You
Snapchat+ offers exclusive and pre-release features for over 9 million subscribers. New personalized features include designing a house on Snap Map, adding a custom pet to chats, and sending lightning quick Snaps. The platform continues to roll out new features for subscribers, while also introducing AI-powered Lenses for all users.
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YouTube leveling up the experience with new Premium features
YouTube Premium subscribers can now enjoy new features for a more personalized experience, including skipping ahead to key moments, smart downloads for offline Shorts, and multitasking with picture-in-picture for Shorts on Android. They also have early access to experimental features, such as conversational AI and a redesigned watch page.
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What Is the Fediverse? An Article by Meta
The fediverse is a global social network of interconnected servers, allowing communication across different platforms. Meta’s Threads app is fediverse-compatible, enabling people to join public conversations and connect communities. Threads integrates with ActivityPub, allowing content to flow between Threads and other servers. Open social networking increases accessibility and fosters innovation and experimentation.
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Meta’s Apps Continue To Dominate the Download Charts
Elon Musk’s social media app, X, is not experiencing significant download growth despite claims of being the top news app globally. Meta’s platforms continue to dominate downloads, with Instagram leading the way. X’s future potential remains, with 250 million daily users, but Musk’s strategies have yet to gain traction against Meta’s established dominance.
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Meta AI Arrives In India: Leading AI Assistant Now At Your Fingertip
Meta AI, one of the world’s leading AI assistants, now arrives in India on WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, Instagram, and meta.ai. And it’s built with Meta Llama 3 – the most advanced LLM to date. You can use Meta AI in feed, chats and more across our apps to get things done, create content, and deep…
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TikTok Files Opening Brief on Unconstitutional Ban
The U.S. appeals court will hear arguments on legal challenges to a new law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. assets by Jan. 19 or face a ban. This impacts 170 million users. The fate of TikTok will be in the middle of the 2024 presidential election.
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The complete guide to everything YouTube at VidCon 2024
BY THE YOUTUBE TEAM It’s that time of year where creators come together to celebrate the magic of digital culture! Join us at VidCon where we head back to Anaheim as the presenting title sponsor. Here, you can learn about all things creator — from the tools you need to create at the top of your…
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TikTok takes the piss on Instagram and launches a new image Sharing App Called “Whee”
TikTok is testing a new app called Whee, similar to Instagram, for sharing private photos with friends. This comes after the launch of Notes, a public sharing platform. The focus on image sharing may be linked to Chinese market trends and e-commerce. It’s an unusual move, but TikTok is aiming to attract users to these…
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Instagram Adds Live Streams for Close Friends Only
Instagram is adding a feature called Close Friends on Instagram Live, allowing users to have private live streams with up to three people from their Close Friends list. This feature aims to facilitate connections within smaller groups and tap into the trend of private sharing on social media.
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Snapchat Introduces New AR Experiences, Powered by GenAI
Snap is introducing new AR experiences powered by GenAI for Snapchatters and developers, allowing real-time image transformation and faster, more performant GenAI techniques in Snapchat. Additionally, the GenAI Suite in Lens Studio enables creators to build high-quality Lenses faster, making it easier to express creativity through custom ML models and new AR features.
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TikTok ushers in a new era at Cannes Lions Festival showing marketers how to boost returns on creative
FROM TIKTOK Creative freedom and experimentation are the most critical tools in today’s marketing arsenal to thrive and meet audiences where they are. TikTok is celebrating the brands and creators that have taken creativity to new heights on the platform, and calling on the industry to embrace creative bravery at this year’s Cannes Lions International…
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Snapchat partners with Skype to launch Lenses
Skype introduces Lenses, powered by Snap’s AR tools, offering personalized and fun experiences for its 80 million monthly users. Users can choose from a variety of Lenses, enhancing chats with friends and family. Integration with Snap’s Lens Studio and Camera Kit SDK enables distribution across multiple platforms. More Lenses will be added in the future.
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LinkedIn introduces new offerings to help B2B marketers build “collective confidence” among the buyer group
B2B marketing leaders globally are optimistic about driving revenue in the year ahead despite tighter budgets. Relationships, brand building, and AI are key focus areas. New initiatives like the Wire Program for video ads and expanded AI capabilities in Accelerate aim to help marketers engage buyers more effectively. Research methodology involved surveying 2,000+ global B2B…
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LinkedIn adds new offerings to help B2B marketers build “collective confidence” among the buyer group
B2B marketing leaders globally are optimistic about their ability to drive revenue in the year ahead despite challenges. They emphasize the importance of building relationships and ‘collective confidence’ among buyer groups. Marketers are also leveraging AI to improve productivity and engagement. New initiatives like the Wire Program and expanded AI capabilities in Accelerate aim to…
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Elon Musk’s X Now Officially Allows Porn After Update to Policies – Variety
Elon Musk’s X, formerly Twitter, updates its policies to allow consensually produced adult content with labeling and restrictions. X aims to support artistic expression and marginalized creators, distinguishing itself from more conservative platforms. The company also provides tools for users to mark adult content and restrict exposure for minors and disapproving users, emphasizing consent and…
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The Future of Facebook
To set Facebook up for success going forward, the platform is focused on two big things: building the next generation of social media for young adults and leaning into new product capabilities enabled by AI. Over 40 million young adults in US and CA are daily active users, and this number is the highest in…
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Playables are now on YouTube With More than 75 Games Available
YouTube has introduced a new feature called Playables, offering a collection of free games directly on the platform. Users can access them from the main YouTube Home page and choose from 75+ games to play. Playables also allow sharing with friends, saving game progress, and providing feedback for improvement. Availability will expand in the coming…
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TikTok Studio Launches to Help Creators Bring Their Creativity
TikTok Studio is a new platform for creators, offering creation and management tools for their TikTok journey. It includes features such as analytics, content creation tools, and privacy settings. Creators can access it via the web or a standalone app to enhance their content and monitor performance.
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TikTok’s New Ad Solutions to Harness Creativity, Entertainment and Performance
TikTok’s 4th annual product summit introduces new business solutions for brands to explore on the platform. With a focus on creative AI tools, performance and measurement solutions, and enhanced branding placements, TikTok aims to empower advertisers to engage with their audience effectively and efficiently. Additionally, the platform introduces a media buying certification program to help…
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YouTube Testing new ways to offer viewers more context and information on videos
YouTube is testing a new feature allowing users to add context notes to videos. These notes can clarify if a song is a parody, update viewers about new product versions, or correct the portrayal of old footage as current events. Eligible contributors will write and rate the notes, with viewers in the U.S. providing feedback.…
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Updates from YouTube’s Brandcast 2024
YouTube went live from Lincoln Center for the 2024 Upfronts, featuring the creators and content that are driving YouTube’s leadership as the #1 most-watched streaming platform on TV and the second most-watched media distributor, according to Nielsen.
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YouTube CEO – “It’s time for the Emmys to embrace creators”
The CEO of YouTube argues for creators to be recognized at the Emmys on par with traditional professionals, stating that they are driving cultural trends, pushing the industry forward, and attracting huge audiences. With the viewing shift to platforms like YouTube, the Emmys should evolve to reflect what viewers are actually watching on TV screens…
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TikTok Partnering Initiative to advance AI transparency and literacy
TikTok is partnering with industry organizations like C2PA and CAI to label AI-generated content (AIGC) and ensure transparency. They are implementing Content Credentials technology, enabling recognition and labeling of AIGC. In addition, TikTok is working on media literacy campaigns to help users identify and critically assess AIGC and misinformation.
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Meta Announces New Stickers in Instagram Stories and Additional Features
Meta launching new stickers in Instagram Stories to kick off music trends, create custom stickers from photos or videos, post a secret story and more. This also allow you to add Yours Music, Frames, Reveal and Cutouts stickers.
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TikTok NewFronts ’24: Introduction of Premium Ad Solutions Dabbling in Original IP with Publishers
At NewFronts 2024, TikTok unveiled new offerings within the TikTok Pulse Suite, providing advertisers with more control over ad placement and cross-media measurement capabilities. The suite connects brands with trending cultural moments, offering ad adjacency to top videos and special event coverage. New audience measurement partners aim to help advertisers understand TikTok’s impact on their…
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Meta’s New Ways to Organize Events in WhatsApp Communities
Meta introduces a new way for people to organize events on WhatsApp. People can also reply to announcements from admins in WhatsApp Communities, a feature that makes it easier to keep WhatsApp groups connected.
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Snapchat New Looks Plus New Features to Fix Typos, Set Reminders & More
Snapchat introduces new features to enhance user experience, including My AI for organization, editable chats, emoji reactions, AI-powered lenses, and custom Bitmoji looks. Users can now edit messages, react with emojis, set reminders, and interact through the Snap Map. These updates demonstrate Snapchat’s commitment to fostering creativity and connections among its community.
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“More Snapchat” – Updates from the 2024 IAB NewFronts
Snapchat position itself as a unique and relationship-focused platform for 422 million daily active users. They introduced AR Extensions, new AR and ML tools, partnerships with creators and sports organizations, and the Snap Nation initiative with Live Nation. Ad platform improvements led to a 21% YoY revenue growth in Q1 2024.
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TikTok’s Statement on Enactment of the TikTok Ban
TikTok plans to challenge the unconstitutional ban in court, asserting that they have invested in data security and free-speech protection. They argue that the ban would harm millions of businesses and silence a vast number of Americans. Despite the legal battle, TikTok vows to invest and innovate to maintain a safe and inspiring platform for…
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YouTube: Shaping the Future of Podcasts
YouTube has become the top platform for Gen Z to discover podcasts, with 84% of US monthly podcast listeners in this demographic finding podcasts on YouTube. YouTube Music now supports podcasts, offering background play, downloads, and the option to switch between audio and video formats. New features include third-party RSS podcast support, enhanced download options,…
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Second Gen of Ray-Ban Smart Glasses by Meta is in plus AI updates from the Company
Expanding the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses collection with new styles. Also adding video calling with WhatsApp and Messenger to share your view on a video call. Meta will also be rolling out Meta AI with Vision, so you can ask your glasses about what you’re seeing and get helpful information hands-free.
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TikTok and AXS Announce Global Ticketing Partnership
TikTok partners with AXS, offering fans easy access to live event tickets for their favorite artists. Certified artists can promote their AXS live dates and connect globally. This collaboration enhances the music experience, benefiting both artists and fans.
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New Feature on WhatsApp to Finding Messages Faster
WhatsApp has introduced new Chat Filters to help users navigate conversations more efficiently. Users can choose from All, Unread, and Groups filters to quickly locate specific messages. This feature aims to simplify message prioritization and organization, with further options to come. The rollout begins today and will reach all users in the following weeks.
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New Tools to Help Protect Against Sextortion and Intimate Image Abuse
Meta is intensifying efforts to combat sextortion and intimate image abuse. New tools and measures are being tested to safeguard users, especially young people, from falling victim to these crimes. Nudity protection in Instagram DMs, automatically enabled for users under 18, aims to blur explicit images and discourage their exchange, providing a vital layer of…
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New YouTube Shopping features
In 2023, YouTube saw a surge in shopping-related video watch time and a 25% increase in shopping video watch time. New features like Shopping Collections for curated products, expanded Affiliate Hub, bulk product tagging, and Fourthwall integration aim to enhance the shopping experience for creators and viewers, aligning with the platform’s vision.
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Meta’s Approach to Labeling AI-Generated Content and Manipulated Media
Meta is updating its manipulated media policy on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. The changes aim to cover a wider range of AI-generated content, such as audio and photos, and provide context through labels. The company will implement “Made with AI” labels and prioritize transparency, while also consulting with experts and the public.
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B2Believe Event by LinkedIn
B2Believe is LinkedIn’s leading B2B marketing event, aiming to transform the industry through impactful sessions and discussions. As a major in-person gathering, it drives change and fosters connections essential for success in the ever-changing marketing landscape.
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Exploring Videos on Facebook Just Got Easier
Facebook’s updated video player offers a consistent design for Reels, longer videos, and Live content in fullscreen mode. It includes new controls, improved video recommendations, and the ability to switch between vertical and horizontal viewing. The release is initially for iOS and Android in the US and Canada, with a global rollout to follow.
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LinkedIn is experimenting with a TikTok-like video feed in its app
LinkedIn is testing a new short-form video feed akin to TikTok, aiming to boost engagement and discovery of professional content on the platform. The vertical feed will display career-focused videos, offering users the ability to like, comment, and share. The move aligns with the rising demand for video-based learning and could provide creators with a…
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Meta New Feature: End-to-End Encryption on Messenger Explained
End-to-end encryption is now default for personal messages on Messenger, offering extra security. It ensures only you and the intended recipient can see the messages and calls, without access from Meta. Secure storage options protect encrypted chat history, accessible through a PIN or storing a virtual key in Google Drive or iCloud.
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Snapchat Launches Sponsored AR Filters
Snapchat introduces Sponsored AR Filters, expanding brands’ reach to over 5 billion daily Snaps. Key features include seamless brand integration, easy filter production, enhanced brand awareness and engagement, and simplified AR ad creation. With no production costs, advertisers of all sizes can participate. The process is quick and budget-friendly, making AR advertising accessible to all.
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TikTok’s Agency Accelerator Program Opens 2024 Applications
TikTok for Business launches the third year of its TikTok Agency Accelerator Program, focusing on ‘bravery’ to foster the growth of media agency leaders in Australia. Seeking applicants with at least eight years of experience, the fully-funded program will select 35 entrants, with winners unveiled in mid April.
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YouTube Designs richer experience for TV
Viewers are increasingly using their TVs to watch YouTube, creating a unique challenge: How to maintain a video-centric experience while integrating interactive elements. YouTube’s new design aims to strike a balance by keeping the video front and center while enabling access to features like comments, video descriptions, and live scores. The design also prioritizes simplicity…
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LinkedIn services to help companies upskill in the age of AI with new tools, courses, and insights.
Business leaders recognize the need for AI skills in employees, yet only 38% of US executives are actively fostering AI literacy. New research shows that 51% of global job skills are projected to change by 2030, and generative AI will accelerate this by 68%. LinkedIn is offering 250 free AI courses and new career development…
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Instagram Updates: Edit Messages, Pin Chats and More
Meta has introduced new features for direct messaging, allowing users to edit messages within 15 minutes of sending, pin up to three group or 1:1 chats for easy access, and toggle read receipts on or off. Additionally, users can save favorite stickers, reply with various media, and personalize chats with different themes.
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LinkedIn Launches Collaborative Articles
LinkedIn has launched collaborative articles, combining AI-generated conversation starters with insights from community experts. Using Skills Graph, the platform matches articles with relevant members who contribute their professional experiences. This new format enables professionals to share real-life advice, making it easier to start and contribute to conversations, fostering knowledge sharing.
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Meta Statement: An Update on Facebook News
In early April 2024, Facebook will discontinue the dedicated news tab in the US and Australia, following the previous deprecation in the UK, France, and Germany. This decision is driven by a shift towards prioritizing features users value most, such as short form video. Despite this change, Meta remains committed to connecting users with reliable…
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Instagram Creator Marketplace Launch
Takeaways From branded content to partnership ads, Instagram is one of the best places for brands and creators to collaborate, and now, Meta is making it even easier to work together. In 2022, they began testing the creator marketplace in the US, a tool for brands and creators to connect and collaborate around partnership opportunities.…
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LinkedIn and Persona expand verification partnership to 16 more countries including APAC
LinkedIn is expanding its free verification feature to reach over 700 million users and aims to have 100 million verified by 2025. The platform has partnered with Persona to roll out identity verification to members in several countries. Verified members gain increased profile views, comments, reactions, and connection requests, fostering a trusted community.
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TikTok CEO Chew Shou Zi grilled by US lawmakers on Chinese links
TikTok’s CEO Chew Shou Zi faced intense scrutiny at a US Congressional hearing due to the platform’s Chinese ownership. He defended against allegations of censorship and Chinese influence, but senators raised concerns about data sharing and national security. The hearing revealed ongoing tensions between TikTok and US lawmakers regarding safety and geopolitical issues – emphasizing…
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Raise Your Snapchat Game With Spotify’s New Snapchat Sharing Lens
Spotify and Snapchat have expanded their partnership to allow users to share their favorite tracks using Snapchat’s augmented reality Lenses. Through the new “Share Track Lens,” users can overlay song information on their snaps and easily share music with their friends, adding a personal touch to their music sharing experience. This feature is now available…
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TikTok Shop Tab: All you need to know
TikTok Shop introduces the Shop tab for convenient shopping. Users can access products, orders, and interact with merchants. The tab showcases products by categories and user interests, with flash sale information. Sellers praise the tab for expanding reach and providing an offline channel. It aims to enhance user experience and support business growth while leveraging…
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TikTok completes mega social commerce merger in Indonesia
The mega merger between TikTok and ecommerce platform Tokopedia in Indonesia has been finalized, bringing TikTok Shop back to the country from a previous ban. The combined entity, now co-owned by TikTok and GoTo Group, will see TikTok holding a controlling stake. Additionally, the establishment of a technology center with Gadjah Mada University and a…
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Elon Musk’s X tells Australia’s online watchdog it has shed 1,000 ‘safety’ staff
Elon Musk’s company X has cut over 1,000 staff globally responsible for stopping abusive online content, causing concerns about the spread of harmful material. Australia’s eSafety Commission revealed the impact of these “deep cuts,” leading to an increase in toxic content.
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TikTok Shop: Your Questions Answered
TikTok Shop in Malaysia, introduced in 2022, has revolutionized e-commerce through Shoppertainment. With over a million sellers and 1.7 million affiliate creators, it empowers SMEs and individuals. The platform debunks misconceptions and supports businesses in going digital. TikTok Shop ensures a safe and enjoyable shopping experience, emphasizing the significance of Shoppertainment.
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Living in the Future by Andrew Bosworth, CTO of Reality Labs
In 2023, Meta made significant strides in AI and the metaverse, with the two technologies beginning to converge. Generative AI is now integrated into popular apps, mixed reality is a mass-market reality, and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses allow AI to see from the user’s perspective. The future holds further advancements in AI and mixed reality,…
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Snapchat Announces New ways to create for the Platform’s Premium Tier
More than seven million Snapchatters have joined Snapchat+ to access the latest AI-powered features for customizing their app, expressing creativity, and enhancing social connections. Subscribers can now create personalized snaps with AI, use the extend tool for better photos, and enjoy more imaginative Generative AI selfies with friends. Snapchat remains dedicated to providing a safe…
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Meta Introducing View Once Voice Messages on WhatsApp
Meta has extended its “View Once” feature to voice messages, ensuring privacy while sharing sensitive information or messages that should be heard just once. Similar to View Once photos and videos, these voice messages will be marked with the “one-time” icon and can only be played once. The feature also benefits from WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption.
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What’s New Across Meta’s AI Experiences
Summary: Meta is implementing over 20 new AI features to enhance experiences on its platforms. This includes advanced messaging capabilities, early access programs for smart glasses, and real-time information retrieval through Meta AI with Bing integration. Additional improvements include AI-generated content, invisible watermarking for transparency, and ongoing safety measures for AI-generated content.
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Snap India Celebrates Augmented Reality at Inaugural APAC AR Day
Snap Inc. hosted its inaugural APAC AR Day in Mumbai, India, celebrating its leadership in Augmented Reality and commitment to democratizing AR. The event featured discussions on AR adoption, India’s creative talent, and Snap’s support for local AR developers. The company emphasized empowering creators, offered monetization avenues, and highlighted the growing AR try-on experiences.
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Telegram unresponsive to SG’s requests to remove explicit content
Telegram has not complied with requests to remove sexually explicit content, but the government is working to engage with platforms and enforce age restrictions to protect users. Singapore’s government seeks to improve online safety through measures such as the Online Criminal Harms Act and the IMDA’s Code of Practice for Online Safety.
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Meta Announces New Ways to Create Content on Instagram
Meta has announced several updates to Instagram, including tools to simplify content creation and enhance performance insights. Users can now edit videos more efficiently and create custom stickers from their own media. New text-to-speech voices, fonts, and styles have been added, and photo filters and insights have been improved for a better user experience.
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Tap into the latest features from YouTube Premium
YouTube Premium has added new features like queuing content on mobile, watching with friends on Meet Live Sharing, and an enhanced 1080p version. They are offering early access to experimental features, in-game loot bundles, trial memberships, and enhanced video quality for iOS, now also available for Android, web, and smart TVs. Premium members can now…
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Meta Gives Creators More Ways to Earn Money on Facebook and Instagram
Instagram and Facebook are testing a holiday bonus program for creators in the US, South Korea, and Japan to earn from their content. They are also expanding ways for creators to earn money through subscriptions and virtual gifts. Additionally, they are simplifying the process for creators to participate in branded content and partnership ads.
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LinkedIn Introduces New AI-powered Premium Experience
LinkedIn is launching a new AI-powered premium experience, providing personalized insights and career action suggestions for subscribers. The AI analyzes feed content, leveraging Microsoft Bing for comprehensive information. For job seekers, the experience offers guidance in finding roles and preparing for interviews, with a focus on unlocking hidden opportunities and delivering value to subscribers.
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Facebook and Instagram to Start Offering Subscription for No Ads in Markets Like Europe
Meta is introducing a subscription option in the EU, EEA, and Switzerland to comply with evolving regulations. People in these regions can choose to use Facebook and Instagram with personalized ads for free or pay a monthly fee to stop seeing ads. The subscription model balances regulatory requirements and offers users more control over their…
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TikTok among other social networks eye on e-commerce licenses
TikTok and YouTube are considering applying for e-commerce licenses in Indonesia following the country’s ban on social media e-commerce. With a population of over 270 million, Indonesia recorded $52 billion in e-commerce transactions last year. The move came after Meta Platforms applied for a similar license.
