Could the "T" in TikTok Stand for Trouble?

Instagram Downgrades TikTok Cross-Posting: Using Reels? Good. But watch out if you’re uploading your TikToks into Reels. In a new “Tips for Getting Discovered” post, Instagram says that videos with burned in logos will be de-emphasized in the algorithm. That same post offers tips for how to make Reels that will surprise, inspire, and delight – and hopefully get more views, too. Just a few years ago Instagram was happy for you to promote your TikTok and Musical.ly content, but that seems to have changed. Lesson #4: You should TOTALLY follow @creators on Instagram.

TikTok and the Problem with Algorithmic Filtering: TikTok is trying to build a safe space for teens and adults, and for the most part I embrace their aggressive filtering. But when it is unevenly applied based on skin color, then something needs to improve. That seems to be the case with videos from Adore Me. When combined with research done by UC Berkeley and others that shows similar issues, it seems the popular platform has a problem. It needs to be fixed ASAP.

Facebook Working on Clubhouse Clone: Is it just me or does Mark Zuckerberg remind you of Bill Gates? Last week he dropped into a Clubhouse chat. Now, news leaks that Facebook is building a Clubhouse clone. Not surprising, but if Facebook comes out with FB-Office then the circle will truly be unbroken.

This Week on VidCon Now: We’re continuing to celebrate Black History Month and are joined this Thursday, Feb 18 at 3 PM (PT) by creators Daphnique Springs, Lolo of Sitting Pretty, and Glen Henry from Beleaf in Fatherhood. This conversation will discuss how they’ve built meaningful careers and how Facebook and Instagram helped them build their communities. Plus, if you’ve been yearning for a beautiful travel adventure – but are stuck at home – join our Asia team for a conversation Thursday, Feb 18 at 4 PM (UTC + 08) with Jeremy Jauncey of Beautiful Destinations to learn his formula for success in China – and elsewhere. 

Over on our online community, Young Ezee will be joining us Wednesday, Feb 17 at 12 PM (PT) for our weekly AMA. Come join the comedian, YouTube sensation, and social media star as she takes you on a tour of her universe.

Tip of the Week: Last week activist and influencer, Kat Blaque, joined us to talk about her experience as a creator over the last decade. She left some good advice for up-and-coming creators who may be dealing with negative feedback. 

“But one of the things about being on YouTube for what is now most of my life is that you really do build thick skin. I've learned that people who are moved to saying really mean things to you are people who are impacted by you. That's power; that's influence. It's helpful to digest it as that — as something that comes with the territory. These comments are often made to encourage you to stop creating what you're creating and honestly, you never want to give someone that amount of power over your work. So you can't let it stop you. You gotta keep going. I'd worry if I WASN'T getting hate because that meant my work wasn't impactful.”

QUIBIS:

• The biggest online video platform you’ve never heard of is now worth $159 BILLION.
• Check out the genius behind the innovative and entertaining all-Black content houses in Atlanta (meet him live on VidCon Now in March!). 
• Yes, I’m a detractor, but like IBM and Microsoft before it, Apple’s attempt to preserve the status quo is hurting innovation.
• Pendulum swinging back – the open web gains, apps lose.
• SAG-AFTRA union expands to include TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitch

What We’re Watching: I still can’t watch the cringe-worthy “Friday” all the way through, but 10 years later the remake is actually not bad – plus an interview with Rebecca Black. Cranberry king Ocean Spray is really trying on TikTok. Start with the bottle riding the skateboard. And yes, we all know cats own the internet – and now that includes Zoom and TikTok.

Jim Louderback

GM of VidCon