From BlueSky to Instagram AI

1. Rise of BlueSky

With some Twitter users looking for an alternative social platform - Bluesky may be the answer. Bluesky was funded by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey and resembles Twitter's original tone and feel. It’s a social network that offers the same features as Twitter – users can post short text and photo updates, reply to each other, and share posts. It operates using an “open protocol,” meaning someday the platform will enable posts to flow between different social media platforms. Currently, Bluesky is still under development as it’s available by invite-only. Bluesky still has a lot of challenges to overcome, however, users are claiming that the platform "evokes nostalgia for the days when social media was fun."

2. TikTok Pulse Premium Ads Expansion

TikTok is launching a premium contextual advertising feature – which will allow brands to maximize ad placements alongside popular content. Last year, the platform launched “TikTok Pulse,” which placed brands next to the top 4% of trending videos on TikTok across various categories. The main difference between TikTok Pulse and Pulse Premiere is that this new version gives advertisers control over where their ads are shown directly after content from a premium publisher on the FYP. This feature will help to maximize reach and conversions as research showed that 93% of users take action on the content they see in their FYP.

3. Google Launches Their Own Blue Checkmarks

Despite Twitter undermining the value of a blue checkmark, Google will be introducing its version of the blue checkmark system for brands called Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI). Gmail users will now see blue ticks appear next to approved brand profiles. According to Google, this is an extension of their strong authentication process to help users “identify messages from legitimate senders versus impersonators.” This is a continuation of their process that requires senders to use strong identification and verify their brand logo to display them in emails. However, considering several social platforms like Twitter & Meta are now selling their blue ticks -- will this undermine the validity behind the checkmark?

4. Instagram Joins the Rush into AI

Instagram is currently testing its first generative AI tool that will allow users to create custom stickers in the app using text prompts. Users will be able to share the stickers with their followers, making generative AI more accessible. Mark Zuckerberg has also mentioned exploring different ways to introduce AI such as “visual creation tools for posts in Facebook and Instagram and ads,” to bring added value to individual creators and businesses.

5. Discord’s Username Changes

Discord will now be making all users pick a new username! Previously users were identified by a name preceding a hash and four numbers. The new system will allow users to create a unique username using the @ symbol similar to other social platforms. You’ll also be able to choose a non-unique display name that can include special characters, spaces & emojis! This change stems from user feedback where people were struggling to connect with friends on the platform and aims to make the app more accessible and user-friendly. The username can be changed gradually in the coming weeks, with longer-tenured users gaining the ability to change their name sooner than new users.

MOE-ment of the Week!

TikTok announced a new lineup of special event programming for Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. They will be running a range of themed live-stream events throughout the month to showcase API artists, dancers, musicians, and more! TikTok will also be releasing a debut of their first Asian and Pacific Islander TikTok Visionary Voices List - this list will honor 15 API creators, business owners, and culture change makers who are making a positive impact on TikTok.