Freeda Social Media Snapshot - September 2024
TikTok has rolled out a new feature allowing users to share short, text-based "thoughts" displayed in a speech bubble at the top of their inbox, closely resembling Instagram’s Notes. Although TikTok can't call its version "Notes" due to its separate photo-sharing app by the same name, the feature is undeniably similar. Both TikTok and Instagram have been replicating each other's features for years, and this addition follows the trend. Currently, the feature is in a testing phase with selected users.
Instagram has introduced several new features to boost engagement in Direct Messages (DMs), including drawing tools, stickers, and expanded "cut-out" options for images, allowing users to personalize their conversations more creatively. Additionally, new chat themes are available to enhance the chat experience, and playful animations have also been added to encourage more interaction. With DMs seeing increased usage, these updates aim to keep private conversations engaging and fun. The features are being rolled out globally.
Instagram has added a new feature to its Broadcast Channels, allowing creators to enable replies from subscribers. While the main broadcast stream remains a one-way communication from creators, fans can now comment on specific messages within the channel, making it a more interactive space without turning it into a full group chat. This enhancement aligns with Instagram's focus on boosting engagement within Direct Messages (DMs), where users increasingly connect. With this update, Instagram aims to combine TikTok-like feed recommendations with more personal, conversation-driven spaces within the app.
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Meta, Snap, and TikTok have launched the Thrive program, aimed at preventing the spread of graphic content related to self-harm and suicide. Thrive, developed in partnership with the Mental Health Coalition, allows companies to share secure "signals" to identify and remove violating content across platforms. Meta provides the technical infrastructure, leveraging technology similar to its Lantern program for combating online child abuse. While Meta continues to block harmful content, it still permits discussions around mental health, as long as they don’t promote self-harm. The initiative highlights a growing commitment to mental health safety online.
YouTube has introduced "Communities," a new feature designed to create a dedicated space for creators and fans to interact, similar to a built-in Discord server. Unlike traditional comments on videos, Communities allow viewers to post content and engage with each other directly within a creator's channel. This feature aims to reduce the need for creators to use external platforms like Discord or Reddit. Currently available only to subscribers, Communities foster deeper connections and ongoing conversations around shared interests. YouTube is testing the feature with select creators and plans a broader rollout in 2025.