Is TikTok preparing to launch an Instagram-like photo app?

1/5 Instagram launches Ads with Promo Codes

Instagram has launched its new “Ads with Promo Codes” option to all brands globally, providing another consideration for Instagram campaigns. The new ads can entice potential shoppers with promo codes listed in the caption, which can then be applied in the checkout process. This also offers a new way to drive sales from Instagram promotions, while giving marketers a new way to track Instagram sales directly, based on the promotional code entered. (Via Social Media Today)

2/5 Instagram begins testing longer Reels?

Instagram is expanding its test of longer Reels video uploads, with some users now able to upload 3 minute long Reels in a bid to maximise engagement on the platform. Instagram is also reportedly internally testing the option for 10 minute Reels. This is the first time it’s been seen in live testing, however, though you can only use pre-recorded videos as longer Reels uploads, as opposed to capturing them via the Reels camera. (Via Social Media Today)

3/5 TikTok is paying creators to up its search game

TikTok is leaning in even more to its app being used like a search engine. The platform’s new creator monetization program called Creator Rewards will use four core metrics to determine payout, including “search value.” Search Value is TikTok’s own version of SEO. On TikTok, search value is whether a creator is posting content that is about topics users are searching for in the app. TikTok encourages creators to use a new tool called Creator Search Insights to research trending searches. (Via The Verge)

4/5 Play games and compete against companies with new LinkedIn Games

LinkedIn is planning to add a games section to its social media platform. LinkedIn's planned games look to be simple, short games which can be completed in a few minutes, similar to The New York Times' Wordle or Connections. "We're playing with adding puzzle-based games within the LinkedIn experience to unlock a bit of fun, deepen relationships, and hopefully spark the opportunity for conversations," a LinkedIn spokesperson stated. (Via Eurogamer)

5/5 Is TikTok preparing to launch an Instagram-like photo app?

In a bid to take on Instagram, TikTok is working on TikTok Photos—creative, right? As reported by The SpAndroid, in the back-end code of TikTok app, new references to “TikTok Photos” have appeared within the code strings. The code appears to suggest that TikTok users will soon be prompted to share their still images to the new app, in order to “reach like-minded people who enjoy photo posts.” (Via Social Media Today)

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