Simply Social Newsletter

TikTok's introducing a new yet familiar post format

TikTok is challenging Twitter and Instagram's Threads with a new feature: text posts. According to TikTok, this addition aims to provide a dedicated space for the written creativity seen in comments, captions, and videos. The announcement follows Twitter's rebranding as X and Meta's recent launch of Threads, both text-based social media platforms.

TikTok's text posts resemble Instagram Stories and have a 1,000-character limit. Users can engage with these posts by Stitching, Duetting, and commenting, just like they do with regular videos. To create a text post, simply go to Camera, select Text, and customize it further by adding locations, tags, hashtags, Stickers, audio, and background colours.

What does this mean for my brand?

Despite being a platform primarily focused on video, TikTok's venture into text-first content may come as a surprise. However, considering the timing of this new feature, it appears that TikTok is aiming to entice users away from Twitter and Threads. With TikTok text posts, brands now have the chance to utilize written creativity alongside their existing video content. This offers opportunities to share more detailed stories, make announcements, conduct Q&A sessions, and provide educational material.

Despite the addition of text posts, TikTok's strength still lies in video content. Therefore, it's advisable to reserve text posts for specific occasions when they can be most effective, as video remains the platform's core focus.

Here are your questions answered about Twitter’s move to X

Elon Musk initiates Twitter's transformation into an "everything app" by officially rebranding it to X. The X.com URL now redirects to Twitter.com, and the display name on the official Twitter account is X. Musk's account and affiliated ones also sport the X logo. He hinted at changes to the app's appearance, including a possible shift from blue to black, and refers to a tweet as an "X". The ultimate aim is to create a comprehensive app like China's WeChat, serving various aspects of our social and digital lives.

What does this mean for my brand?

Musk's main focus is on payments, aiming to transform Twitter (now known as X) into "the biggest financial institution in the world." This could include advanced Payment features like money transfers similar to PayPal or CashApp.

Potential plans for X involve offering users the ability to book and pay for various services, such as transportation, online shopping, banking, event tickets, and vacations, all through the X app.

According to an insider from Twitter (now X), the rebranding has no immediate impact on advertisers, and the focus remains on growing brands and their businesses. While Meta's Threads has seen a gradual increase in user-ship, Musk's move with X.com appears to be more about generating buzz around Twitter.

Elon's vision for an "everything app" may be ambitious, but some argue that Twitter's drastic changes are negatively affecting user experience, and a new logo and domain won't solve the platform's underlying issues.

TikTok is simplifying the process of researching high-performing ad formats for you

TikTok introduces updates to its ads insights, offering advertisers new data on European ad campaigns. The Commercial Content Library is similar to Meta's Ad Library format, allowing users to search for specific ad types and apply custom date filters (from October 2022 onwards). Results display the ad, running dates, ad targeting, and total unique impressions.

The Library also covers commercial content tagged with paid partnership or promotional labels, even if not a paid ad. These additional targeting details align with evolving EU ad policies, enhancing the original Ads overview available since 2021.

What does this mean for my brand?

TikTok's Library offers a detailed view of ad campaigns, providing valuable insights into competitors' strategies and audience preferences. Simply enter your location, ad type, date range, and advertiser name or keyword to access all relevant ads within your chosen filters.

For businesses in EU markets or those looking to expand there, the Library serves as a valuable research tool. Utilize it to enhance ad approaches, optimize targeting, and create more effective content.

According to Meta, here’s what people want from your Threads posts

Threads, launched recently, remains a popular topic of discussion, although reports indicate a decline in engagement. Nevertheless, Meta has strategies to maintain its relevance with users and brands. They have shared winning Threads advice with selected creators, and Adam Mosseri confirmed upcoming features, including an algorithm-free following feed and a desktop app.

What does this mean for my brand?

Make a strong first impression with a killer first post. Use bold visuals and open-ended questions to spark interest and engagement. Start conversations to increase involvement and reach. Native polls are coming soon. For now, use two images and ask for votes with emojis. Try posting challenges or contests for more engagement and visibility.

If you're up for it, use Threads-related puns, as they've been performing well according to Meta. Prioritize community management. Use Meta's safety and user controls to moderate replies if needed.