Big tech companies are announcing layoffs but continue introducing updates to their products. Even during a week when today’s leading social platforms appeared to be at a standstill, developers at five digital communication giants announced numerous updates. Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest all seem ready to introduce improvements to their applications.
Twitter: premium subscriptions and Elon Musk’s antics
Twitter Blue, the paid subscription that provides early access to new features and the famous “blue check,” now allows tweets of up to 4,000 characters. However, this advantage seems diminished by the fact that, after the usual 280 characters, the text is hidden behind a “Read more” prompt. Because of this inconvenience, many people may continue using alternative methods, such as linking to a website. Nevertheless, it is a new development for a social platform defined by brevity since its founding.
Still on Twitter Blue, some rumors suggest that the TweetDeck web application may soon become available only to premium users.
The second story to attract attention online concerns the platform’s CEO, Elon Musk. According to reports, the entrepreneur requested a change to the app’s algorithm so that his tweets would reach all users.
TikTok: three changes to consolidate growth
The social platform that reached the height of its success during the COVID pandemic is trying to maintain its leading position through three possible changes.
First is the introduction of a system that would allow content creators to monetize their content. The possibility of allowing pay-per-view videos is under discussion.
The second update reportedly being planned concerns the Creator Fund. Following numerous controversies over the low compensation received by content creators, the app’s operators are considering changing the requirements for accessing the fund. Rumors suggest that the new guidelines would raise the minimum number of followers needed to receive payment from 10,000 to 100,000.
Finally, four new strategies for promoting posts have reportedly been introduced.
• Reaching specific audience segments based on geographic location
• Increasing the number of visits to a profile
• Promoting other content creators’ profiles
• Increasing the number of inquiries received from potential customers.
Instagram: small changes to livestreams
Following its parent company’s approach, Instagram has reportedly also decided to remove the option to tag content during livestreams. This change seems particularly aimed at the US market, where audiences do not appear especially enthusiastic about this new advertising method.
Facebook faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with users
Following accusations in previous months, Meta’s board set itself the goal of strengthening trust between Facebook and its users. To achieve this, it adopted a policy of complete transparency. This led to the announcement of more information explaining why advertisements are targeted at individual users. More specifically, it was announced that publicly available information would now also include how data are collected on- and off-site.
In addition, the Oversight Board announced two important changes to its internal rules. One of the main developments is a faster decision-making process, allowing decisions to be made within a period ranging from 48 hours to 30 days.
A second benefit for Facebook users would be the ability to read reports on content moderation. When the moderation process is activated or, conversely, reversed, the Board will be required to inform the public of the reasons for its decisions. This documentation would help increase awareness of how the process works and what errors may arise.
Pinterest continues to embrace the central role of video
Continuing a long-established trend, Pinterest has introduced the option to upload videos lasting five minutes. These are called “Idea Pins.” The social platform has always been used as a source of inspiration thanks to its feature for creating personalized mood boards. This capability has now become exponentially more compelling for content creators and brands focused on creating and sharing lifestyles.
Authors
Arianna Geli
Account Director and Head of Operations