Friday Five: Instagram Gives More Control to Creators and Google Pulls the Plug on Universal Analytics

With the digital world constantly evolving it’s imperative that, when working in marketing, you stay up to date with the latest news and industry changes.

To make things slightly easier for you, we’ve rounded up 5 news stories that we think you should know about. Check them out below!

1. Say Goodbye to Universal Analytics

Google has announced that Universal Analytics (UA) will soon become obsolete and, as of July next year, it will stop processing new data. UA will be replaced with Google Analytics 4. The main reason for this? GA4 can measure data on websites and desktop and mobile apps, making it a more future-proof solution. There are also loads of benefits to GA4 that better align with typical business objectives.

2. Twitter Tries (& Fails) to Change Their Algorithm

The social network has tried a few times to make its timeline algorithmically populated, with its latest attempt allowing users to swipe between two different layouts - ‘Latest’ and ‘Home’. However, after negative feedback from users, the platform quickly decided to pause the feature and listen to their audience (a wise decision).

As this wasn’t the first time the platform has tried to make this change however, we can’t help but wonder whether they’ll give it one last push in the future.

3. Crafting LONG Emails on Google Just Got Easier

If you’re a Gmail user you’ll be pleased to know that writing emails, especially those long ones, can now be done in Google Doc’s. Once you’re happy with your draft you can then send the email directly from the doc, sparing you of any copy & paste embarrassment (don’t pretend like you’ve not had it happen to you!).

This development is part of Google’s “Smart Canvas” initiative, in which they aim to integrate their software to save users time, headaches, and potential embarrassment.

4. Instagram Gives More Control to Creators

Earlier this week Instagram, launched their ‘Live Moderator’ feature, allowing streamers to report comments, remove viewers, and turn off comments for viewers.

Instagram Live has been a feature since 2016, and some may argue that this new feature is long overdue. As the platform tries to attract more creators and make the experience more enjoyable for all, it’s great to see Instagram giving users more control over their content... even if it is a little overdue.

5. Google Provides More Visibility Opportunities for Hotels

Last year, Google launched free hotel booking links in order to help businesses who were struggling during the Covid pandemic.

Then, this week, Google have announced these links will now show on the search results page and Google Maps. This latest development will help many hotels extend their reach and allow users to book directly on their website after clicking these links.

That’s your five for this Friday! Did we miss anything? Feel free to drop a link to an article that’s caught your eye in the comments section!