Screen Time Monopoly and the End of Newsjacking Strategies?

From longer tweets, through to increased exposure for content without external links. The theme for this week's social media update is focussed around how platforms are trying to monopolise user screen time. But which platform is peaking your interest? Let's dive in to this week's updates??

Expanding the Character Limit and Highlights for Twitter Blue Subscribers ??

Twitter is evolving rapidly, with Blue subscribers getting to enjoy some exciting updates. Now, Blue members can share more detailed content directly on the platform with an extended tweet character limit of 25,000, up from the previous 10,000. This major increase allows users to post blog entries and other in-depth material directly on Twitter, removing the need for links to external sites. As an added bonus, these long-form tweets can now include images, making them more engaging and visually appealing for readers. This provides a greater opportunity for brands and influencers alike, to cultivate greater authority and expertise across specific topics or industries.

In addition to the expanded character limit, Twitter has also launched a new 'Highlights' tab for Blue subscribers. This feature allows users to showcase their best or favourite tweets, offering a quick overview of an account's content and potentially facilitating new connections and promotions.

Twitter's Stand Against Trendjacking ??

Twitter's CTO Elon Musk recently hinted at a new policy that could impact how brands use the platform for advertising. In a tweet, Musk stated that accounts engaging in "gaming replies'' for free advertising could face suspension. Initially, this comment seemed to target all brands seeking free publicity via tweet replies, but Musk later clarified that the rule would specifically address spammy replies and "non-sequitur self-promotion".?

While this clarification suggests that trendjacking and engaging with trending topics should still be allowed, it's clear that Twitter is taking steps to curb this practice, which could mark a significant change in the platform's culture. In addition to this, the exact enforcement of this possible new rule is yet to be determined. This potential policy shift could significantly impact Twitter advertising strategies and is something Twitter's new CEO, Linda Yaccarino, may need to manage in line with brand partner expectations and Musk's views.

Downloading Publicly Posted Reels on Instagram ??

Instagram users can now download publicly posted Reels directly to their camera rolls, providing a new way to share Reels content.

However, this feature (which is currently available to selected users in the US) comes with a few limitations: creators can choose to disable downloads of their content, and privately posted content cannot be downloaded. Some users have also reported audio issues with certain Reels, potentially owing to Meta's music licensing agreements.?

Nonetheless, this update offers another avenue for creators to increase the reach of their content across different platforms, akin to TikTok's long-standing video download feature. From a marketeers perspective, we’re taking this as a win!

New Reel Ad Opportunities! ??

Meta has announced the expansion of its Reels advertising options, now allowing more brands to? access Reels for advertising and tap into the format's growing popularity.?

In recent months, Meta has recalibrated their algorithm to prioritise AI-based content suggestions, making short-form video the central element in maintaining user engagement across its platforms.?

PRO TIP: this change to their algorithm has also seen posts with external links get lower exposure than posts without.?

In addition to expanding ad options, Meta is also introducing app promotion ads to Reels, as well as testing music optimisation for single image Reels ads.?

These updates aim to provide brands with more tools for creating engaging content and gaining assurance in Reels ad placements, maximising reach and performance with their chosen audience. If you are yet to consider Reels ads, these developments might just tempt you!

Straight from the Horse’s Mouth: LinkedIn's Tips for Standing Out ??

Alexandra Morales, a social media manager at LinkedIn, has revealed some useful tips on how to make your LinkedIn posts (organic and paid) more noticeable. Here's a quick rundown to help you nail your LI strategy going forward:?

• Encourage reader interaction by including opportunities for participation, like questions or calls to action.
• Disrupt the norm with unique and eye-catching content. Users are more likely to notice content and adverts that differ from other pieces of content on the platform. Look for creative and eye-catching methods to stand out from the crowd.
• Inspire other users by sharing valuable and motivational content.
• Use appealing visuals to capture attention. Visual components are important for increasing engagement. Select high-quality, relevant graphics that successfully convey your message
• Opt for brief and compelling headlines to quickly convey your content's essence and encourage further reading.

Stay tuned for more updates in the fast-paced world of social media.

Keep climbing!