Mashable
Jul 20, 20:01
The moments that defined the 2026 World Cup
From historic debuts to emotional goodbyes, the tournament never stopped giving us something to talk about. Here are the moments that defined the 2026 World Cup.
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From historic debuts to emotional goodbyes, the tournament never stopped giving us something to talk about. Here are the moments that defined the 2026 World Cup.
TL;DR:
From historic debuts to emotional goodbyes, the tournament never stopped giving us something to talk about.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 20, 14:22
Social platforms draw consumers in, but conversions falter
Social media has become the No. 1 channel for consumers globally to find new products, ESW found. But trust in those checkout experiences remain elusive, creating a fragmented customer journey.
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Social platforms draw consumers in, but conversions falter. 1 channel for consumers globally to find new products, ESW found. But trust in those checkout experiences remain elusive, creating a fragmented customer journey.
TL;DR:
Social media has become the No.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 20, 08:00
Can social media platforms survive the flood of AI content?
A recent report from Pangram estimated that 41% of posts on LinkedIn showed signs of AI generation, highlighting a growing problem across all apps.
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Artificial intelligence-generated spam is a massive problem for social media networks. Every platform is dealing with AI spam. Pinterest has worked to address concerns regarding the influx of AI generated posts, which some users say have absolutely flooded the feed.
TL;DR:
A recent report from Pangram estimated that 41% of posts on LinkedIn showed signs of AI generation, highlighting a growing problem across all apps.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 20, 08:00
Reddit says brands need to connect with communities
Laura Nestler, Reddit’s executive vice president of community, told brands at the recent Cannes Lions Festival to “act like a citizen, not like a billboard.”
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Reddit is helping drive shopping activity as more people visit the platform to get information on products and services before making a purchase. In addition, there’s been an increase in Reddit content in AI chatbot responses , which could be useful for marketers.
TL;DR:
Laura Nestler, Reddit’s executive vice president of community, told brands at the recent Cannes Lions Festival to “act like a citizen, not like a billboard.”
Socialmediatoday
Jul 19, 10:23
How TikTok Shop is changing innovation for food and beverage brands
Big companies, including PepsiCo and Mars, are using the app’s e-commerce feature to drive sales and inform new products, according to the platform’s head of food.
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TikTok’s in-app shopping system could be the next big frontier for food companies, with large brands including PepsiCo, Mars and Hershey beginning to more heavily engage with the social media app. TikTok Shop’s food category sales have more than doubled year over year, according to the company, posing a lucrative emerging growth channel for food manufacturers.
TL;DR:
Big companies, including PepsiCo and Mars, are using the app’s e-commerce feature to drive sales and inform new products, according to the platform’s head of food.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 19, 08:00
TikTok report explores creative AI optimization for brands
Relevance is more important than how much output a company creates, according to a recent study done in partnership with Warc.
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Marketing strategy group Warc partnered with TikTok on a new report that explored the influence of artificial intelligence tools on marketing workflow. The report found that the key content trend of the moment was relevance rather than volume, and this can’t be fully replicated by AI tools.
TL;DR:
Relevance is more important than how much output a company creates, according to a recent study done in partnership with Warc.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 19, 08:00
YouTube offers tips on working with Shorts videos
The platform’s Culture and Entertainment Editor Julia Lee Harter outlined best practices for using interactive features and building community engagement.
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YouTube shared new tips to help creators integrate Shorts into their creative mix, including notes on how to uncover key trends and opportunities. If creators and brands want to maximize engagement with the next generation of consumers, short-form video is an essential consideration. Harter also outlined the engagement benefits of YouTube’s various Shorts sticker options.
TL;DR:
The platform’s Culture and Entertainment Editor Julia Lee Harter outlined best practices for using interactive features and building community engagement.
Mashable
Jul 17, 09:00
Why is Jennifer Hudson singing the U.S. anthem at the World Cup final?
Jennifer Hudson will sing the U.S. national anthem before Spain faces Argentina in the World Cup final. Here’s why.
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Why is Jennifer Hudson singing the U.S. anthem at the World Cup final?. national anthem before Spain faces Argentina in the World Cup final.
TL;DR:
Jennifer Hudson will sing the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 16, 18:50
X adds Grok-powered insights to Ads Manager
The move represents the platform’s latest artificial intelligence integration advance, and could eventually lead to full advertising automation.
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X has launched beta testing of its new Grok integration in Ads Manager, which should offer more artificial intelligence-powered guidance for promotions.. In April, X launched its updated Ad Manager platform , rebuilt to offer AI-powered guidance at every level. X said at the time that its reformed ad platform represents the biggest ad system update in the company’s history.
TL;DR:
The move represents the platform’s latest artificial intelligence integration advance, and could eventually lead to full advertising automation.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 16, 18:47
YouTube refreshes Studio and updates video guidance
The company is providing more insights via a rebranded analytics portal and also offered clarifications on the removal of unsatisfying or off-putting material.
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YouTube is testing an updated UI for YouTube Studio , while it’s also revised its rules on repetitive content in response to a rise in complaints from users. First, YouTube is trying out an “insights first” experience in YouTube Studio on desktop.
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The company is providing more insights via a rebranded analytics portal and also offered clarifications on the removal of unsatisfying or off-putting material.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 16, 18:43
X updates its engagement bait detection
The platform is using Grok’s artificial intelligence system to remove accounts that solicit engagement from its creator revenue share program.
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The company’s latest target is engagement baiters and users who repost other people’s content. On the first point, Nikita Bier, X’s head of product, said in a Thursday post on X that users who directly ask other users for engagement will be removed from the platform’s creator revenue share program.
TL;DR:
The platform is using Grok’s artificial intelligence system to remove accounts that solicit engagement from its creator revenue share program.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 16, 17:48
TikTok partners with NBA and WNBA
The new deal will offer exclusive in-app content and help the platform better engage with its growing basketball fanbase.
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TikTok announced new partnership deals with the NBA and WNBA on Thursday to offer exclusive content in the app. Basketball is rising in popularity on TikTok, and the company is looking to connect with that fanbase and drive more sports engagement through collaborations such as these.
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The new deal will offer exclusive in-app content and help the platform better engage with its growing basketball fanbase.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 16, 17:18
Meta AI adds additional safety measures
Updates include parental alerts when children engage in self harm or suicide-related chats with the artificial intelligence tools.
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Meta added new alerts for parents whose kids discuss sensitive topics with Meta AI. First, Meta will alert parents when their children engage in AI discussions related to suicide and/or self-harm. Now, we’ll also proactively alert supervising parents if their teen’s Meta AI chat suggests they may be at risk, based on signals developed with experts.
TL;DR:
Updates include parental alerts when children engage in self harm or suicide-related chats with the artificial intelligence tools.
Mashable
Jul 16, 10:00
The girlbossification of AI enters its influencer era
From Kylie Jenner Meta glasses to smart beauty mirrors, AI companies are using fashion, influencers, and celebrity culture to reach women.
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Kylie Jenner's latest fashion campaign is selling more than a pair of sunglasses. In the ad for Meta 's new "Kylie Edition" AI-powered glasses , Jenner moves through an unusually glamorous version of an ordinary morning. Meta isn't alone in this approach.
TL;DR:
From Kylie Jenner Meta glasses to smart beauty mirrors, AI companies are using fashion, influencers, and celebrity culture to reach women.
Mashable
Jul 15, 21:30
Is the UKs age-verification law working? Kinda.
Close to a year after the enactment of the UK's age assurance law, the Online Safety Act , Ofcom, the UK's communications regulator, has released a report on its progress.
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The Online Safety Act requires robust age checks for sites that have content "restricted to adults," which extends from pornography to non-explicit content like the r/stopsmoking subreddit. Ofcom has found that these age checks are now being deployed on an "unprecedented scale" across various sectors: porn, social media, dating, and gaming.
TL;DR:
UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, releases a report about the progress about the Online Safety Act.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 15, 19:22
YouTube highlights brand partnerships with sports creators
The platform’s latest report examined the rising influence of athletic influencers and offered guidance on how to connect with them.
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Amid the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026, YouTube for Business published a report which looks at the rising influence of sports creators in the app. Haaland is an established YouTube creator who has 3.29 million subscribers, and he regularly posts updates to the platform to connect with his fans.
TL;DR:
The platform’s latest report examined the rising influence of athletic influencers and offered guidance on how to connect with them.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 15, 19:15
UK officials propose overnight social media blackout for teens
A planned default setting in the apps is designed to prevent teenagers from accessing them or scrolling after midnight, per Reuters.
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officials are considering another element within the nation’s proposed teenage social media restrictions, which would see teens aged 16 and 17 cut off from social media platforms overnight . government recently announced its plan to ban teenagers from social media apps, with proposed restrictions designed to restrict children aged under 16 from accessing major social platforms…
TL;DR:
A planned default setting in the apps is designed to prevent teenagers from accessing them or scrolling after midnight, per Reuters.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 15, 19:08
China bans romantic relationships with AI companions
New laws forbid users to engage in intimate emotional interactions with artificial intelligence chatbots and ban their use, per the Wall Street Journal.
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But China has enacted new laws that would forbid relationships with artificial intelligence-powered services . As per WSJ: “ On Wednesday, China enacted rules forbidding chatbots designed for companionship from encouraging emotional reliance.
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New laws forbid users to engage in intimate emotional interactions with artificial intelligence chatbots and ban their use, per the Wall Street Journal.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 15, 18:15
Elon Musk says he will open-source X codebase
The platform’s owner has previously promised to share algorithm and code data, but earlier offers of transparency fell short.
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X owner Elon Musk said on Wednesday that X will fully open-source the app’s codebase to increase transparency and ideally win more trust from platform users. Musk added that X will invite third-party reviewers to examine the system running in the app to confirm that the open-source code is what’s being used.
TL;DR:
The platform’s owner has previously promised to share algorithm and code data, but earlier offers of transparency fell short.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 15, 17:41
X offers Mention Boosts to Premium Business subscribers
The feature allows brands to amplify organic customer call-outs and reviews, converting those posts into promotional campaigns.
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X launched a new advertising option called Mentions Boost , which will let brands pay to increase the reach of any post mentioning them. As shown in this example image, when a brand is mentioned in an organic post by an X user, there will now be an option to boost that mention, converting customer endorsements into a paid campaign.
TL;DR:
The feature allows brands to amplify organic customer call-outs and reviews, converting those posts into promotional campaigns.
Mashable
Jul 15, 14:27
UK plans social media curfew for teens aged 16 and 17
The UK government announced plans to establish a social media curfew for teens aged 16 and 17, the BBC reported.
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The UK government announced plans to establish a social media curfew for teens aged 16 and 17, the BBC reported. The news comes a month after the UK announced a ban on social media for children under 16, and days after the EU announced a similar ban for children under 13.
TL;DR:
The UK government announced a curfew for some teens, while saying it won't move forward with a VPN ban.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 14, 18:59
Instagram Reels adds more AI translations
The platform’s interface allows creators to process captions and audio that makes it look and sound like the original poster is speaking.
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Instagram added more artificial intelligence-powered language translation options , so users can now automatically translate Reels content into Japanese, Korean, French, German and Italian, in addition to the existing language options.
TL;DR:
The platform’s interface allows creators to process captions and audio that makes it look and sound like the original poster is speaking.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 14, 18:57
Threads adds flair tags for community posts
The themed icons show up under usernames and reflect specific subtopic interests within larger discussion groups.
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Threads has expanded the option for community members to add flair icons to their community posts , offering another way for the platform to streamline engagement and connection within community discussions. Now, when users post to a community that offers flair, they can add that to their posts and further align their update with interested community members.
TL;DR:
The themed icons show up under usernames and reflect specific subtopic interests within larger discussion groups.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 14, 18:55
TikTok sellers in the UK get improved insights
A much-requested update provides enhanced metrics regarding product rankings, traffic sources and conversion efficiency.
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TikTok Shop sellers in the U.K. The new and/or updated elements within TikTok’s product metrics include: These enhanced insights will help TikTok sellers in the U.K. It can also help sellers uncover key opportunities based on user interest.
TL;DR:
A much-requested update provides enhanced metrics regarding product rankings, traffic sources and conversion efficiency.
Mashable
Jul 14, 18:48
Big Boogies fake $5M scholarship claim is going viral again
Rappers are known to exaggerate for street cred. Mostly to create an aura of either authenticity or mythos to get fans to buy in. It's the nature of the game.
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Not to be confused with the drum line.) Per Boogie, he turned the offer down to focus on rap. Boogie clearly has no idea how college scholarships work, and clearly doesn't care. Kev spends part of it confused about Boogie getting paid to "play the drums," even though Boogie had just clarified he was a drum major, not a drummer.
TL;DR:
Big Boogie's 2023 lie about a $5 million drum major scholarship is back and funnier than ever.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 14, 17:55
Snapchat shares data with Dick’s Sporting Goods
A new partnership in collaboration with LiveRamp will let advertisers see how on-platform ads drive in-store sales.
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Snapchat announced a new partnership with Dick’s Sporting Goods that will provide direct data insights into how Snapchat campaigns drive sales activity in Dick’s stores across the U.S. In collaboration with LiveRamp, the new initiative will enable Snapchat advertisers to view ad response data alongside Dick’s stores’ sales results.
TL;DR:
A new partnership in collaboration with LiveRamp will let advertisers see how on-platform ads drive in-store sales.
Mashable
Jul 14, 17:47
X wants to re-prioritize your friends and make replies less of a battleground
X is adjusting its algorithm to boost the visibility of replies from users' mutuals, according to product head Nikita Bier.
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X is rolling out a small but notable change to how it surfaces content from people users follow back, according to a post from the platform's head of product, Nikita Bier. In a message published Monday, Bier said the company identified a gap in how the algorithm weighted relationships between users.
TL;DR:
X is adjusting its algorithm to boost the visibility of replies from users' mutuals, according to product head Nikita Bier.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 14, 17:30
Google Images introduces Pinterest-style UI
The new gallery format also includes a collections option that allows users to save visuals into dedicated folder tabs.
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Google launched an updated UI for Google Images , which makes the gallery look more akin to Pinterest. The company also added an artificial intelligence-powered tool to generate images that can be used as the basis for a search. Google has been copying Pinterest’s ideas for a long time.
TL;DR:
The new gallery format also includes a collections option that allows users to save visuals into dedicated folder tabs.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 13, 19:01
X boosts the posts of users’ mutuals
The move will help people see more updates from profiles they follow, although the tweak seems like it shouldn’t have been needed.
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X announced an update to its algorithm to ensure that users are shown more posts from profiles they follow. ” Again, this may seem like a fairly obvious example of something that should always be a priority within an engagement-based algorithmm in that users should be shown posts from the profiles that they’ve explicitly chosen to see more of.
TL;DR:
The move will help people see more updates from profiles they follow, although the tweak seems like it shouldn’t have been needed.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 13, 18:59
Meta expands its Louisiana data center project
The updated development includes an investment of more than $50 billion in the region and assurances of support for local schools and businesses.
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Meta announced an expansion of its Louisiana data center project as the company continues to build out its network in order to power its artificial intelligence development. Meta said the data center expansion, which also includes support for additional regional utilities infrastructure, will create more jobs in the region.
TL;DR:
The updated development includes an investment of more than $50 billion in the region and assurances of support for local schools and businesses.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 13, 18:07
EU takes next steps to limit teen social media use
“Almost 60% of young children have experienced emotional or psychosocial problems online,” Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
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She also said it’s not about whether children can access social media. “It is about whether and when social media can access our children. The question is no longer if children face risks online, but what can we do to give children a safer start online.”
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“Almost 60% of young children have experienced emotional or psychosocial problems online,” Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 13, 17:40
Google expands ad frequency controls
Advertisers can now apply exposure optimization options to video campaign groups across multiple promotions.
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YouTube’s reach and frequency controls let advertisers manage how often video ads are shown to users. Google said this will help advertisers hit optimal frequency targets and maximize ad performance. Google added that internal testing showed that a video ad exposure frequency of 2.7 per week led to a 19% lift in ROI.
TL;DR:
Advertisers can now apply exposure optimization options to video campaign groups across multiple promotions.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 13, 17:25
TikTok and Madonna set in-app livestream record
A recent Q&A with the pop star celebrated the release of her upcoming “Confessions II” album and drew more than 2.1 million concurrent viewers.
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TikTok’s livestream content push has received a big boost from its recent exclusive event to launch musician Madonna’s newest album . The live Q&A session with the music superstar was watched by more than 2.1 million concurrent viewers in the app, setting a platform record for an artist stream.
TL;DR:
A recent Q&A with the pop star celebrated the release of her upcoming “Confessions II” album and drew more than 2.1 million concurrent viewers.
Mashable
Jul 13, 15:37
EU plans to restrict social media for kids under 13
The President of the European Commission announced plans to restrict social media platforms for children under 13 today.
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Additionally, the report recommends more age-assurance and safety measures for social media and other digital services such as AI companions, video-sharing platforms, and video games. "This is not about whether children can access social media. It is about whether and when social media can access our children," she stated.
TL;DR:
The President of the European Commission announced plans to restrict social media platforms for children under 13 today.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 12, 20:04
Instagram will charge for AI access
In a weekly Q&A, Chief Adam Mosseri said artificial intelligence models “are very expensive to run,” forcing the company to “either throttle people or ask them to pay.”
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As part of his weekly Q&A on Instagram Stories, Mosseri replied to a user question about restrictions on the usage of Meta’s latest generative AI features for image and video generation . Meanwhile, the new Meta One subscription package includes unlimited usage of its Conversation Focus feature for paying Meta AI glasses users.
TL;DR:
In a weekly Q&A, Chief Adam Mosseri said artificial intelligence models “are very expensive to run,” forcing the company to “either throttle people or ask them to pay.”
Socialmediatoday
Jul 12, 18:35
TikTok launches AI literacy measures
The app created a guide for spotting artificial intelligence usage and is about to introduce a learning hub designed to teach practical detection skills.
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TikTok has announced an initiative to address the rise of artificial intelligence-generated content in the app, including an expanded educational program for users, and an improved detection systems designed to increase transparency. First, TikTok launched a new AI literacy guide to help users identify in-app AI content.
TL;DR:
The app created a guide for spotting artificial intelligence usage and is about to introduce a learning hub designed to teach practical detection skills.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 12, 18:16
EU Commission preliminarily finds Meta apps addictive
The design of Instagram and Facebook violates the Digital Services Act, according to the commission, which cited features such as infinite scroll and autoplay.
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Meta is facing more operational challenges in Europe, after the EU Commission preliminarily ruled that both Facebook and Instagram were in violation of EU laws relating to the implementation of addictive features . Meta could face significant penalties as a result, while the company may also be required to offer more alternative experience options for EU residents.
TL;DR:
The design of Instagram and Facebook violates the Digital Services Act, according to the commission, which cited features such as infinite scroll and autoplay.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 12, 17:58
Meta removes Instagram’s AI remix option
Only two days after launch, the company disabled a feature that allowed users to integrate other people’s content into artificial intelligence-generated images.
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Meta has removed the option to use its latest artificial intelligence tools to remix other people’s posts on Instagram, after widespread backlash to the new feature, which all users had been opted into by default. Last week, Meta announced its latest Muse Image model , its most advanced image and video generation tool to date.
TL;DR:
Only two days after launch, the company disabled a feature that allowed users to integrate other people’s content into artificial intelligence-generated images.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 9, 19:09
Meta breaks ground on first data center in Canada
The $10 billion project in Alberta will be the company’s 33rd facility worldwide.
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Meta breaks ground on first data center in Canada. The $10 billion project in Alberta will be the company’s 33rd facility worldwide.
TL;DR:
The $10 billion project in Alberta will be the company’s 33rd facility worldwide.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 9, 19:00
Meta CTO confirms facial recognition in AI glasses
Andrew Bosworth told journalist Nicholas Thompson that the company is exploring multiple use cases for Face ID, including as a tool for the visually impaired.
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Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth has confirmed that the company is considering rolling out facial identification capability within its Meta AI glasses. This week, in an interview with journalist Nicholas Thompson , Bosworth confirmed that Meta is exploring the use of facial identification to help visually impaired users regain their independence. They’re like, ‘People I know.
TL;DR:
Andrew Bosworth told journalist Nicholas Thompson that the company is exploring multiple use cases for Face ID, including as a tool for the visually impaired.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 9, 17:56
Google adds AI creation disclosure for ads
When brands use generative artificial intelligence tools in their promotions, Google’s SynthID will automatically detect and label the content.
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Google announced new transparency elements for ads created using artificial intelligence-generated elements. Ad viewers will be able to access a new information panel when Google’s system detects AI usage.
TL;DR:
When brands use generative artificial intelligence tools in their promotions, Google’s SynthID will automatically detect and label the content.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 9, 17:45
Meta adds new metrics to track business chatbot performance
Brands can now better assess how well their custom artificial intelligence Business Agents are navigating customer queries and handling responses.
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Meta added new metrics designed to improve the way brands measure the performance of their custom chatbot agents. Meta expanded access to these agents last month, and the new metrics within Meta Business Suite will help brands track engagement and performance data for these custom response tools.
TL;DR:
Brands can now better assess how well their custom artificial intelligence Business Agents are navigating customer queries and handling responses.
Mashable
Jul 9, 17:22
Why is the internet rooting against Argentina?
Why does it seem like the internet is rooting against defending World Cup champs Argentina? It has a lot to do with the team's fraught history and competing visions of Latin American identity.
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Why is the internet rooting against Argentina?. Why does it seem like the internet is rooting against defending World Cup champs Argentina? It has a lot to do with the team's fraught history and competing visions of Latin American identity.
TL;DR:
Why does it seem like the internet is rooting against defending World Cup champs Argentina?
Socialmediatoday
Jul 9, 16:47
Meta launches Muse Spark 1.1
The new multimodal reasoning model will offer a paid tier for developers as the company pursues monetization avenues for its artificial intelligence projects.
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Meta has taken the next step forward in its evolving artificial intelligence push, with the launch of its advanced Muse Spark 1.1 model . Meta said the tool can also navigate unfamiliar interfaces with minimal human intervention. “Rather than reasoning through every desktop step one click at a time, Muse Spark 1.
TL;DR:
The new multimodal reasoning model will offer a paid tier for developers as the company pursues monetization avenues for its artificial intelligence projects.
Mashable
Jul 8, 19:43
The Odyssey sails into rave reviews and online backlash
Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey has finally completed its first voyage in front of critics, and the early reaction is basically: find the biggest screen near you.
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Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey has finally completed its first voyage in front of critics, and the early reaction is basically: find the biggest screen near you. The movie , shot entirely with IMAX film cameras, opens in theaters July 17.
TL;DR:
'The Odyssey' first reactions praise Christopher Nolan’s IMAX epic as casting backlash continues online.
Mashable
Jul 8, 19:39
Erling Haaland is somehow a Love and Deepspace star now
AI-generated football memes are taking over the 2026 World Cup, with Haaland, Mbappé, Ronaldo, Messi, and more becoming fan-edit material
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Erling Haaland has become one of the 2026 World Cup ’s biggest characters in China, and not just because he keeps scoring. Since joining Weibo , China’s major microblogging platform, and Douyin , the Chinese version of TikTok, a month ago, Haaland has amassed over 1 million followers on Weibo and more than 5 million on Douyin.
TL;DR:
AI-generated football memes are taking over the 2026 World Cup, with Haaland, Mbappé, Ronaldo, Messi, and more becoming fan-edit material
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 18:53
X will DM users about Community Notes updates
Elon Musk announced the news in a recent post, but it appears to replicate an existing procedure on the platform.
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X owner Elon Musk announced an update for Community Notes that aims to address concerns about the value of the crowd-sourced fact-checks that get added to some posts a user has engaged with. As per Musk: “We will be releasing a new Community Notes feature that sends you an X Chat message if a post you interacted with is corrected.
TL;DR:
Elon Musk announced the news in a recent post, but it appears to replicate an existing procedure on the platform.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 18:52
LinkedIn shares tips on effective posting
Frequency, length and consistency are key, and can help boost artificial intelligence pickup as well as overall engagement.
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LinkedIn shared new advice on how to maximize content performance in the app, with a simple checklist of what should be included in every LinkedIn update. LinkedIn has shared a simple checklist for effective content creation in the app, which applies to both creators and brands.
TL;DR:
Frequency, length and consistency are key, and can help boost artificial intelligence pickup as well as overall engagement.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 18:09
Meta addresses capture LED tampering on its AI glasses
The company said that its second generation devices will not be able to record if the indicator lights are disabled or otherwise tampered with.
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Meta announced an update to its AI glasses that will deactivate the device if it senses that a user has tried to conceal the glasses’ recording function. Some of these ads say that the LED removal converts the Meta AI glasses to “stealth mode,” meaning that users can record without others knowing.
TL;DR:
The company said that its second generation devices will not be able to record if the indicator lights are disabled or otherwise tampered with.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 18:09
Meta addresses LED tampering on its AI glasses
The company said that its second generation devices will not be able to record if the indicator lights are disabled or otherwise tampered with.
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Meta announced an update to its AI glasses that will deactivate the device if it senses that a user has tried to conceal the glasses’ recording function. Some of these ads say that the LED removal converts the Meta AI glasses to “stealth mode,” meaning that users can record without others knowing.
TL;DR:
The company said that its second generation devices will not be able to record if the indicator lights are disabled or otherwise tampered with.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 17:44
Meta’s new AI option allows remixes of public IG posts
The company’s updated image generation model lets users tag profiles and import visuals into its artificial intelligence visual creation tools.
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Amid rising questions about the value and viability of artificial intelligence, Meta has announced its Muse Image visual creation and remix option . Utilizing advanced AI-powered reasoning, Muse Image is the latest project from the company’s Superintelligence Labs, which has been tasked with researching and creating artificial intelligence tools.
TL;DR:
The company’s updated image generation model lets users tag profiles and import visuals into its artificial intelligence visual creation tools.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 8, 16:46
Google adds AI-powered Video Remix option
The option, available in Google Photo, allows users to generate stylized, realistic elements using the company’s Gemini Omni artificial intelligence tool.
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Google announced an upgrade to its artificial intelligence-powered remix options on Wednesday, which lets users generate new variations of their personal videos in its Google Photos app. As shown in these images, the new video remix option lets users change the context of their video clips, offering realistic-looking background editing that can transform the video’s context.
TL;DR:
The option, available in Google Photo, allows users to generate stylized, realistic elements using the company’s Gemini Omni artificial intelligence tool.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 19:24
YouTube launches desktop version of Ask YouTube
The conversational search chatbot is designed to help users “explore complex questions” with natural language prompts, the company said.
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YouTube is bringing its Ask YouTube artificial intelligence-powered assistant to desktop users in the U.S. Ask YouTube launched in the app in 2023 and lets users pose conversational questions to expand discovery. YouTube added Ask YouTube to the CTV version of its app in February , so it’s surprising that it’s taken this long to make it to the official YouTube website.
TL;DR:
The conversational search chatbot is designed to help users “explore complex questions” with natural language prompts, the company said.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 19:21
TikTok launches Discover America tour
The six-city roadshow is designed to highlight regional creators and promote the app as a valuable marketing tool. TikTok announced a six-city U.S. tour to mark America’s 250th birthday .
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TikTok announced a six-city U.S. The platform is taking its promotional roadshow across the nation in order to help creators and businesses make best use of its app. The site also includes a range of insights into the TikTok activity of people in each featured city.
TL;DR:
The six-city roadshow is designed to highlight regional creators and promote the app as a valuable marketing tool.
Mashable
Jul 7, 18:58
Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland are taking their bromance to the World Cup stage
The internet is revisiting Bellingham and Haaland’s friendship before the England vs. Norway World Cup match.
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Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland are taking their bromance to the World Cup stage. The internet is revisiting Bellingham and Haaland’s friendship before the England vs. Norway World Cup match.
TL;DR:
The internet is revisiting Bellingham and Haaland’s friendship before the England vs.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 18:27
Meta adds updated disclosure tags for AI-generated ads
The updated tags will provide more info on which promotions include AI-generated elements, whether from Meta or via external AI tools.
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Meta has updated the labels for Facebook and Instagram ads that include artificial intelligence-generated content , in order to ensure that these notes align with the company’s recent updates to its general ad disclosure listings.
TL;DR:
The updated tags will provide more info on which promotions include AI-generated elements, whether from Meta or via external AI tools.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 18:11
SpaceX rebrands as SpaceXAI
The combined company now encompasses SpaceX, xAI and social media platform X. Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched its official rebranding on Monday following its merger with xAI, the parent company of social…
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Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched its official rebranding on Monday following its merger with xAI, the parent company of social media platform X. X drives the data intake for xAI, and xAI provides artificial intelligence tools to SpaceX. It seemed that X and xAI originally merged because X was running out of money because its ad intake dried up.
TL;DR:
The combined company now encompasses SpaceX, xAI and social media platform X.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 18:00
Meta faces potential $1.4 trillion in penalties
In a child safety case, four U.S. states are seeking combined damages that the company estimates would be close to its market cap, per Reuters.
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Meta faces potential $1.4 trillion in penalties. In a child safety case, four U.S. states are seeking combined damages that the company estimates would be close to its market cap, per Reuters.
TL;DR:
states are seeking combined damages that the company estimates would be close to its market cap, per Reuters.
Mashable
Jul 7, 17:46
Erling Haaland makes the Majin Buu meme official
After years of fans joking that Erling Haaland resembles Dragon Ball Z villain Majin Buu, the Norway striker has weighed in.
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The meme has resurfaced as the Norway striker has become one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup . The latest chapter in this long-running meme began with an Instagram post from @hidden.ny , showing Haaland recreating Majin Buu's signature hand gesture. Responding in the comments on July 6, the Manchester City striker wrote: "I mean I don't disagree.
TL;DR:
After years of fans joking that Erling Haaland resembles Dragon Ball Z villain Majin Buu, the Norway striker has weighed in.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 7, 16:28
Meta improves AI image generation tools for advertisers
The company said its new Muse Image model, developed by its Superintelligence Labs, “understands complex creative briefs the way a designer would.”
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The company said its new Muse Image model, developed by its Superintelligence Labs, “understands complex creative briefs the way a designer would.” Meta launched an artificial intelligence-powered image generator for advertisers , which will help markers create more ad variations in alignment with what’s resonating on Facebook and Instagram.
TL;DR:
The company said its new Muse Image model, developed by its Superintelligence Labs, “understands complex creative briefs the way a designer would.”
Mashable
Jul 7, 15:57
Australias kid social media ban is ineffective, study suggests
A study by a team of advisers to the Australian government has suggested that the country's social media ban for children under 16 is ineffective, Reuters reported. Australia enacted the ban in Dec.
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A study by a team of advisers to the Australian government has suggested that the country's social media ban for children under 16 is ineffective, Reuters reported. 2025, requiring social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok to take "reasonable steps" to prevent those under 16 from creating accounts. The fine for noncompliance was originally up to $AU49.
TL;DR:
A study has found that platforms aren't clearing the first test for Australia's social media ban for children under 16.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 19:05
X rolls out updated video editor, including green screen recording
The company also launched multi-language captioning as part of a wider feature rollout that gives the tool new functionality.
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X launched a new video editor and recorder UI in the iOS version of its app. As shown in this sequence, X’s updated video capture UI’s new features are integrated into an easy-to-use overlay that will provide more options for posting videos to the app.
TL;DR:
The company also launched multi-language captioning as part of a wider feature rollout that gives the tool new functionality.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 18:54
Facebook tests view count display for posts
Meta already offers this metric on Instagram and Threads, and the company has repeatedly said this information offers a more accurate understanding of engagement.
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Facebook may become the latest Meta app to display up-front post view counts, with some users being alerted to a new post view count displayed on their posts. As shown in this image from app researcher Radu Oncescu , Facebook is displaying post view counts on the main post display, although only the creator is able to view this number.
TL;DR:
Meta already offers this metric on Instagram and Threads, and the company has repeatedly said this information offers a more accurate understanding of engagement.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 18:48
WhatsApp adds green dot live status indicators
The feature replaces a previous text label and is available in iOS and Android. WhatsApp is testing out live status indicators via green dot indicators on the profile images of people who are online,…
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As reported by WA Beta info , WhatsApp has added this capacity to the latest iOS version of its app. As per WA Beta Info: “With this feature, WhatsApp is introducing a new indicator in the chat info screen, making it easier for users to understand whether the contact is available. Some people won't want to be disturbed, even if they are technically available in the app.
TL;DR:
The feature replaces a previous text label and is available in iOS and Android.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 18:42
Reddit reports more than 23 million daily spam views
The platform’s updated artificial intelligence systems are preventing about 25,000 spam posts and comments each day.
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Reddit has become a key reference source for artificial intelligence chatbot responses , so it makes sense that spammers are increasingly looking to influence discussions in the app. Indeed, Reddit has reported that it’s now dealing with more than 23 million spam views each day, representing a significant increase in inauthentic activity.
TL;DR:
The platform’s updated artificial intelligence systems are preventing about 25,000 spam posts and comments each day.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 18:42
Reddit reports more than 23M daily spam views
The platform’s updated artificial intelligence systems are preventing about 25,000 spam posts and comments each day.
More:
Reddit has become a key reference source for artificial intelligence chatbot responses , so it makes sense that spammers are increasingly looking to influence discussions in the app. Indeed, Reddit has reported that it’s now dealing with more than 23 million spam views each day, representing a significant increase in inauthentic activity.
TL;DR:
The platform’s updated artificial intelligence systems are preventing about 25,000 spam posts and comments each day.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 6, 16:52
YouTube expands access to supervised kid accounts
The platform has extended its parental oversight for younger children to the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.
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YouTube said the content settings here are broadly aligned with international content ratings . YouTube added that option to U.S. supervised kid accounts.
TL;DR:
The platform has extended its parental oversight for younger children to the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 5, 18:03
Meta launches Pocket creative app
The artificial intelligence-powered platform is designed to let users generate interactive “gizmos” via text prompts.
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The company launched a new app that lets users use AI to create games and tools that other people can try out. Users can also scroll through a feed of projects, called gizmos, that have been created by other users.
TL;DR:
The artificial intelligence-powered platform is designed to let users generate interactive “gizmos” via text prompts.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 5, 17:50
Meta allowed ads promoting child sexual abuse in India
The BBC said that promotions for abusive videos appeared on the social media giant’s apps, although the offending materials were subsequently removed.
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As reported by BBC, Meta apparently let several variations of promotions for child abuse material show up in its apps in recent weeks. Meta removed the promotions shortly thereafter. The BBC report comes as Meta continues to push ahead with plans to replace most of its human moderation staff with artificial intelligence agents.
TL;DR:
The BBC said that promotions for abusive videos appeared on the social media giant’s apps, although the offending materials were subsequently removed.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 5, 17:22
YouTube confirms new music options for carousels
The platform also outlined Studio changes, which are designed to streamline access to copyright and monetization information.
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First, as YouTube previously announced in May , creators can post carousel updates with music backing, and these posts are also eligible to be shown in the Shorts feed. YouTube has been gradually rolling out carousel posts within the Shorts feed . YouTube also provided more information on its latest YouTube Studio transparency update.
TL;DR:
The platform also outlined Studio changes, which are designed to streamline access to copyright and monetization information.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 5, 17:18
Edits app gets auto-translated bilingual captions
Meta also added updated creative templates and seasonal sound effects to its video creation tool. Meta has unveiled even more functions for its Edits video editing app , including auto-generated bili…
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Meta has unveiled even more functions for its Edits video editing app , including auto-generated bilingual captions, improved creative templates and a new range of seasonal sound effects. Parent company Meta said these will let users “bring summer energy” to their clips.
TL;DR:
Meta also added updated creative templates and seasonal sound effects to its video creation tool.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 5, 17:14
Clear messaging helps brands with AI optimization
A new artificial intelligence visibility study from Semrush explored the sources chatbots reference and suggested AEO and GEO best practices.
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The online discovery process is changing as more people use artificial intelligence chatbots to find information. Semrush’s AI Visibility Index first looked at the variances in resourcing among the different AI tools. As per Semrush: “ The brands AI describes most consistently aren’t expanding content for volume’s sake.
TL;DR:
A new artificial intelligence visibility study from Semrush explored the sources chatbots reference and suggested AEO and GEO best practices.
Mashable
Jul 2, 18:07
The Supreme Court’s strangest media tradition is still running
Why do Supreme Court interns still run paper rulings to the media? Behind the viral 'running of the interns' tradition
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The Supreme Court’s strangest media tradition is still running. Why do Supreme Court interns still run paper rulings to the media? Behind the viral 'running of the interns' tradition
TL;DR:
Why do Supreme Court interns still run paper rulings to the media?
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 19:43
X launches livestream studio to streamline live broadcasts
X announced an updated live-streaming command center within its Creator Studio platform, which will make it easier for creators to schedule and run their live broadcasts in the app.
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X announced an updated live-streaming command center within its Creator Studio platform, which will make it easier for creators to schedule and run their live broadcasts in the app. The updated live composer will give creators a streamlined launch process for their livestreams, including simplified setup on desktop PCs, with chat control options, thumbnail uploads, etc.
TL;DR:
The updates livestreaming platform on desktop will provide more options for live video creators.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 19:43
X launches livestream studio to simplify live broadcasts
The updated livestreaming platform on desktop will provide more options for live video creators. X announced an updated livestreaming command center within its Creator Studio platform, which will mak…
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X announced an updated livestreaming command center within its Creator Studio platform, which will make it easier for creators to schedule and run their live broadcasts in the app. Once the stream is live, the dashboard will also provide creators with audience insights, including viewer and comment peaks and audience demographics.
TL;DR:
The updated livestreaming platform on desktop will provide more options for live video creators.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 19:16
Majority of U.S. adults support social media bans
A new study from Pew Research found that most Americans support some kind of restrictions, with only 20% opposing the idea.
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Sixty percent of those surveyed said they would support teen social media usage restrictions, while only a fifth of respondents definitively opposed bans for young users. Australia implemented its under-16 social media ban in December , though initial results suggest that the ban is having little impact when it comes to curbing young users from accessing social apps.
TL;DR:
A new study from Pew Research found that most Americans support some kind of restrictions, with only 20% opposing the idea.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 19:15
Reddit rolls out split testing to all advertisers
The feature allows marketers to run two ad variants and choose which campaign to focus on based on performance.
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Reddit announced that its split testing option is generally available to all Reddit marketers . The news follows a test with selected ad partners over the past few months. Reddit’s ad split testing will enable marketers to run two ad variants at the same time, in order to determine the best performer.
TL;DR:
The feature allows marketers to run two ad variants and choose which campaign to focus on based on performance.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 19:12
Meta will charge for access to advanced AI features
The company confirmed cost updates for its latest premium options and artificial intelligence capabilities, including premium device support for its glasses.
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The signs are not looking great for Meta’s expanded artificial intelligence ambitions. Subscribing to Meta One Premium plan will give device owners expanded access to conversation focus and premium device support. ” Meta officially announced the update yesterday , which means that Meta AI glasses owners will now have to pay a monthly fee to get maximum use out of the device.
TL;DR:
The company confirmed cost updates for its latest premium options and artificial intelligence capabilities, including premium device support for its glasses.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 17:17
Meta explores cloud infrastructure business
The company wants to sell access to artificial intelligence computing power to outside sources, including competitors, according to Bloomberg.
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Meta is reportedly exploring a new way to make money from its initial investment into data infrastructure, which it had flagged for future artificial intelligence projects. According to Bloomberg , Meta is developing plans for a cloud infrastructure business, which would sell access to AI computing power and models to other providers, including Meta’s competitors in the AI rac…
TL;DR:
The company wants to sell access to artificial intelligence computing power to outside sources, including competitors, according to Bloomberg.
Socialmediatoday
Jul 1, 16:19
LinkedIn rolls out new AI-powered promotional tools
A new array of features includes the platform’s official launch of Brand Kit, which lets marketers select guidelines for colors, fonts and other variables.
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LinkedIn announced new artificial intelligence-powered creative options for its in-app promotions, including copy generation tools, ad personalization options and ad variants. LinkedIn’s system will then be able to provide copy options that align with these parameters.
TL;DR:
A new array of features includes the platform’s official launch of Brand Kit, which lets marketers select guidelines for colors, fonts and other variables.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 18:04
YouTube celebrates America 250
Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S. parks and a collection of specialized content to celebrate the nation’s anniversary.
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YouTube celebrates America 250. Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S. parks and a collection of specialized content to celebrate the nation’s anniversary.
TL;DR:
Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 18:04
YouTube celebrates America’s 250th
Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S. parks and a collection of specialized content to celebrate the nation’s anniversary.
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YouTube celebrates America’s 250th. Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S. parks and a collection of specialized content to celebrate the nation’s anniversary.
TL;DR:
Features include interactive games such as a coloring book of U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 17:56
TikTok launches Agentic Hub
The new feature offers a central location for third-party artificial intelligence ad tools, and is directly integrated with the platform’s Model Context Protocol server.
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TikTok launched a new Agentic Hub for artificial intelligence-powered tools , which will enable advertisers to utilize a broader range of AI features within their TikTok marketing process. The Agentic Hub is a centralized collection of resources created by TikTok and outside partners and designed to assist with this process.
TL;DR:
The new feature offers a central location for third-party artificial intelligence ad tools, and is directly integrated with the platform’s Model Context Protocol server.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 17:54
YouTube partners with science content creator Mark Rober
The platform is launching a series of educational videos designed around the former NASA engineer’s hands-on experiments via its Class Crunchlabs program.
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YouTube announced a new partnership with former NASA engineer turned science content creator Mark Rober, which will see YouTube provide a range of educational content built on hands-on experiments. “All video content will be available in 34 languages on the new Class CrunchLabs YouTube channel ready for back-to-school 2026,” YouTube said.
TL;DR:
The platform is launching a series of educational videos designed around the former NASA engineer’s hands-on experiments via its Class Crunchlabs program.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 17:27
Meta adds custom Instagram Stories features for glasses
The company’s artificial intelligence-powered glasses will be able to capture and post multi-camera and motion capture formats.
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Meta has launched some new posting options for Instagram Stories exclusively for its artificial intelligence-powered smart glasses. As explained by Meta: “Try a new interactive format that breaks free from the static frame of traditional stories. Meta also added an option to align perspectives between phone camera and glasses views using multi-cam sync.
TL;DR:
The company’s artificial intelligence-powered glasses will be able to capture and post multi-camera and motion capture formats.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 17:03
Consumers trust AI for discovery but not for finding deals
Similarweb found that artificial intelligence-enabled chatbots are being used in the early stages of shopping journeys, but traditional search tools are preferred later on.
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As more people turn to artificial intelligence-enabled chatbots to power their product discovery process, optimizing for chatbot mentions is rising as a new marketing element. The data showed that most AI chatbot users find AI tools helpful in the initial stages of the shopping journey, while regular search tools come into play during the price comparison stage.
TL;DR:
Similarweb found that artificial intelligence-enabled chatbots are being used in the early stages of shopping journeys, but traditional search tools are preferred later on.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 30, 16:21
Threads adds live chat co-hosts
The app also announced new ways to share live chat discussions as it looks for ways to improve community engagement.
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In order to help promote these discussions, Threads will also let chat participants post messages from a live chat directly to their feed. Threads also improved the deletion process in live chats. The Threads team said it’s also working on pinned messages and live translation within chats, which offers more options for interaction and participation from community members.
TL;DR:
The app also announced new ways to share live chat discussions as it looks for ways to improve community engagement.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 18:05
TikTok launches branded minidramas
The platform wants to tap into the popularity of these popular episodic shorts by offering companies the opportunity to promote their own microseries content.
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TikTok is looking to help brands promote their own minidramas in the app , with a new addition to its Growth Max promotion offering. Clearly, TikTok is also seeing interest from brands, which is why it’s now adding more ad options to help promote brand-aligned mini dramas as another form of promotion.
TL;DR:
The platform wants to tap into the popularity of these popular episodic shorts by offering companies the opportunity to promote their own microseries content.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 18:05
TikTok launches branded microdramas
The platform wants to tap into the popularity of episodic shorts by offering companies the opportunity to promote their own microseries content.
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TikTok is looking to help brands promote their own microdramas in the app , with a new addition to its Growth Max promotion offering. Clearly, TikTok is also seeing interest from brands, which is why it’s now adding more ad options to help promote brand-aligned microdramas as another form of promotion.
TL;DR:
The platform wants to tap into the popularity of episodic shorts by offering companies the opportunity to promote their own microseries content.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 18:03
WhatsApp prompts users to choose a username ahead of update
In a promotional campaign fronted by athlete Anthony Joshua, the platform demonstrated how to choose a new name that will function as a primary ID.
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Now, WhatsApp is calling on users to prepare for a broader shift. Businesses will have their own process for claiming existing usernames from other Meta apps. “For them, we reserved an option to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp.”
TL;DR:
In a promotional campaign fronted by athlete Anthony Joshua, the platform demonstrated how to choose a new name that will function as a primary ID.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 17:24
TikTok partners with Madonna for ‘Confessions II’
The app will launch activations and events including an in-app live preview with iHeartRadio during the pop star’s July 2 album release party in London.
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TikTok announced another music activation as the platform partners with Madonna to help launch her latest album, titled “Confessions II.” TikTok said its partnership with Madonna will be “ a multi-part global celebration,” which will see the music superstar take part in several live activations in the app leading up to the album’s launch on July 3.
TL;DR:
The app will launch activations and events including an in-app live preview with iHeartRadio during the pop star’s July 2 album release party in London.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 17:14
Pinterest expands international campaign insights
The platform launched a markets view element to help businesses get better insights into multi-regional promotions.
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Pinterest wants to help businesses expand their Pin campaigns into foreign markets, so it’s launching a new markets view element within its ads platform that will provide insight into relative campaign performance across different regions.
TL;DR:
The platform launched a markets view element to help businesses get better insights into multi-regional promotions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 17:00
Google adds features to Video Reach and Video View campaigns
YouTube and Google Ads will get expanded metrics to help advertisers gain more insight into how their spending drives results.
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YouTube announced two new features for its Video Reach and Video View campaigns. First, YouTube said that Video View Campaigns that are opted into Shorts will now automatically include Shorts Ad Actions in budget optimization . Shorts Ad Actions include all likes, shares and comments via Shorts promotions .
TL;DR:
YouTube and Google Ads will get expanded metrics to help advertisers gain more insight into how their spending drives results.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 29, 15:39
Reddit launches ‘People are the Best’ campaign
The platform’s new promotional message highlights the real conversations happening in-app each day, and takes subtle aim at artificial intelligence.
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Reddit launched a new brand campaign designed to highlight its rising value as a key source of human-powered insight. The premise of the campaign is to contrast the platform to the increasingly artificial intelligence-influenced content on other apps.
TL;DR:
The platform’s new promotional message highlights the real conversations happening in-app each day, and takes subtle aim at artificial intelligence.
Mashable
Jun 28, 18:27
Australia is doubling max fines for social media ban violations
Australia is doubling max fines for social media ban violations to $99M AUD as the government says platforms aren't doing enough.
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Australia's teen social media ban has been in effect since December , and the government's verdict on how it's going is pretty clear: not well enough. The news comes roughly six months after Australia's Online Safety Amendment Act took effect, banning platforms including Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, X, and YouTube from allowing users under 16 to hold accounts, as Mas…
TL;DR:
Australia is doubling max fines for social media ban violations to $99M AUD as the government says platforms aren't doing enough.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 28, 18:00
ChatGPT is the most popular AI tool for people in the US
Most users are turning to artificial intelligence for help with searches, with less than a quarter using them for image generation, according to research from Pew.
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And AI usage is clearly rising. adults who use chatbots are using ChatGPT, despite rising competition from other apps such as Claude. Interestingly, only 24% of people are using AI chatbots to create images or videos.
TL;DR:
Most users are turning to artificial intelligence for help with searches, with less than a quarter using them for image generation, according to research from Pew.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 28, 17:57
YouTube adds AI-powered comment filtering
The new tools allow channel managers to group similar comments together for review, reply or deletion, streamlining control of user responses.
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YouTube announced new artificial intelligence-powered tools to help channel managers with video comments. As explained by YouTube: “You’ll now see a ‘Search’ filter on your Comments page, while the old exact-match search field has been relabeled as ‘Keywords.’” Within this new Search option, creators will be able to search through channel comments by topic.
TL;DR:
The new tools allow channel managers to group similar comments together for review, reply or deletion, streamlining control of user responses.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 28, 17:54
Meta tries to limit liabilities in child harm cases
The company is lobbying lawmakers in California to protect itself from a proposed bill that could fine companies up to $1 million per child, per Politico.
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Meta is seeking to avoid further restrictions and penalties related to child harm cases in California as the state considers new regulations that are designed to hold social media apps accountable for their impact on young users. The case stems from a March ruling that said social media platforms can be addictive and can have significant health impacts on users.
TL;DR:
The company is lobbying lawmakers in California to protect itself from a proposed bill that could fine companies up to $1 million per child, per Politico.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 28, 17:44
Trump threatens tariffs over EU digital taxes
In a recent post on Truth Social, the U.S. president vowed to impose 100% tariffs on any country that implemented a digital services tax on an American company.
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Trump threatens tariffs over EU digital taxes. In a recent post on Truth Social, the U.S. president vowed to impose 100% tariffs on any country that implemented a digital services tax on an American company.
TL;DR:
In a recent post on Truth Social, the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 28, 17:31
Instagram tests more algorithm controls
The app’s Your Algorithm is getting new access points and features, but the experiments fail to address some of users’ biggest requests.
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Instagram is experimenting with additional ways to give users a level of control over recommendations in the app . Instagram Chief Adam Mosseri said that Instagram is looking into more ways to make users aware of this option, as well as providing more access points to its algorithm control features.
TL;DR:
The app’s Your Algorithm is getting new access points and features, but the experiments fail to address some of users’ biggest requests.
Mashable
Jun 27, 14:54
Twitchs CEO says passive scrolling cant beat the community of live streaming
Mashable spoke to Twitch CEO Dan Clancy following his fireside chat "Why Live is the Future of Content: From Passive Scrolling to Real Connection" at VidCon 2026.
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VidCon is a premier global convention for content creators, influencers, digital media brands, and fans. The event features creator panels, networking opportunities, live entertainment, meet-and-greets, and discussions on trends shaping the creator economy. When a streamer takes some time off, their audience notices their absence in a way they might not with a TikTok creator.
TL;DR:
Mashable spoke to Twitch CEO Dan Clancy following his fireside chat "Why Live is the Future of Content: From Passive Scrolling to Real Connection" at VidCon 2026.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 25, 18:54
Google adds AI guidance to Demand Gen campaigns
Google announced updates to its Demand Gen ads , including the capacity to utilize a wider range of video formats.
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Google announced updates to its Demand Gen ads , including the capacity to utilize a wider range of video formats. First, Google expanded the range of video formats supported within its Demand Gen offerings, which can be transformed into Demand Gen promotions.
TL;DR:
Advertisers can now use a wider range of formats and get artificial intelligence assistance for their promotions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 25, 17:57
Meta plans to replace 90% of content review staff with AI
Despite the recent Instagram breach, the company said 50% of its content review is done by artificial intelligence, and that number will grow by year’s end, per Axios.
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As reported by the Financial Times, Meta is accelerating its plans to implement AI models in place of humans for content review. This comes after about 20,000 Instagram accounts were broken into by hackers in a recent exploit, in which the hackers tricked Meta’s AI support bot, which then gave them access to accounts they did not own.
TL;DR:
Despite the recent Instagram breach, the company said 50% of its content review is done by artificial intelligence, and that number will grow by year’s end, per Axios.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 25, 17:36
Meta poaches top talent from Virtue AI
Three founders from the artificial intelligence security startup will help to stress-test and improve Meta’s AI safety protocols.
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Amid rising concerns around the security of artificial intelligence models, Meta has moved to improve the integrity of its systems by hiring more talent with specialized skills in this area. As reported by Axios , Meta hired three founders from AI security startup Virtue AI in order to improve internal testing and ensure safety within its AI models.
TL;DR:
Three founders from the artificial intelligence security startup will help to stress-test and improve Meta’s AI safety protocols.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 25, 17:18
YouTube Studio display gets a round of updates
Creators will now be able to find a consolidated listing of video alerts, look at revenue estimates and review an Account Status page.
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YouTube wants to help creators better understand the status of their account, and specifically their monetization status. First, YouTube launched a redesigned Content tab within YouTube Studio. YouTube also added a new column for estimated revenue, which will display the earnings for each video in a simplified overview.
TL;DR:
Creators will now be able to find a consolidated listing of video alerts, look at revenue estimates and review an Account Status page.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 25, 16:04
YouTube updates reaction options for Shorts
The binary approach has been updated with a heart icon and more granular user feedback inputs, and viewers also have a new Clear Screen viewing option.
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However, this also means a change in data for creators, with Shorts now losing the dislike data. YouTube said creators wil l still have access to historical dislike data for Shorts in YouTube Studio, but this count will stop updating for Shorts at the end of June. After that, creators will have to change their approach to performance tracking based on viewer response.
TL;DR:
The binary approach has been updated with a heart icon and more granular user feedback inputs, and viewers also have a new Clear Screen viewing option.
Mashable
Jun 24, 19:52
The World Cup’s latest viral trend is surprisingly wholesome
World Cup 2026 teams and fans from Japan, Jordan, and Iran are going viral for clean locker rooms, thank-you notes, and postgame courtesy.
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The FIFA World Cup has plenty of ways to make a country famous when they succeed: a goal for the ages, a goalkeeping masterclass, or a star player turning into a meme . Call it the Ted Lasso World Cup. View this post on Instagram The team was making its World Cup debut, and after losses to Austria and Algeria, its knockout hopes were gone.
TL;DR:
World Cup 2026 teams and fans from Japan, Jordan, and Iran are going viral for clean locker rooms, thank-you notes, and postgame courtesy.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 24, 17:12
LinkedIn tests suggested feeds
The move is designed to broaden user exposure and engagement in the app, and echoes a similar alternative feed test from last year.
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LinkedIn is trying out a new way to drive topical engagement, with some users now being shown a range of suggested feeds in addition to their regular news feeds. The platform also wants to expand the ways users engage with the app, and build on LinkedIn’s value as a news and information source.
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The move is designed to broaden user exposure and engagement in the app, and echoes a similar alternative feed test from last year.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 24, 17:05
Meta outlines best practices for AI-generated multimedia ads
The company’s updated creation tools are designed to help advertisers maximize their performance by generating multiple ad variations to find the best fit.
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Meta has provided new guidance on how marketers can make best use of its new artificial intelligence-powered multi-media ads , which enable advertisers to upload various image inputs in order to generate multiple versions of a promotion.
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The company’s updated creation tools are designed to help advertisers maximize their performance by generating multiple ad variations to find the best fit.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 24, 16:58
LinkedIn automates job application process for premium users
The platform’s Premium Apply Assistant will use artificial intelligence to pre-fill applications and even add cover letters for suitable roles.
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LinkedIn is gradually rolling out a new Premium Apply Assistant for job seekers, an artificial intelligence-powered system which is designed to make it easier for paid LinkedIn users to apply for the open roles that they’re best suited for.
TL;DR:
The platform’s Premium Apply Assistant will use artificial intelligence to pre-fill applications and even add cover letters for suitable roles.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 24, 16:44
Meta brings back Facebook Creator Studio
The updated portal offers new artificial intelligence features to help creators build their presence, including personalized insights and auto-generated replies.
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Meta is bringing Facebook Creator Studio back from the dead , as the company continues to look for more ways to enhance its appeal to creative talent. The new Facebook Creator Studio has been redesigned as an artificial intelligence -powered companion, Meta said.
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The updated portal offers new artificial intelligence features to help creators build their presence, including personalized insights and auto-generated replies.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 24, 16:01
Meta launches integrated booking for lead ads
The Facebook-only update integrates third-party platforms including Calendly and is designed to streamline the signup process.
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The Facebook-only update integrates third-party platforms including Calendly and is designed to streamline the signup process.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 19:19
TikTok partners with fitness tracking app
The platform is creating a pan-European Local Movement Fund with Strava to help empower regional exercise clubs and communities.
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Running and fitness have become significant trends on TikTok, with people sharing tips, progress notes and inspiration, and subsequently driving solid engagement in the app. Now, TikTok wants to extend that to practical community initiatives, in an effort to garner support through positive development, and to further promote participation via the app.
TL;DR:
The platform is creating a pan-European Local Movement Fund with Strava to help empower regional exercise clubs and communities.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 19:13
Snapchat highlights its user engagement
Parent company Snap commissioned a report that found its social platform outranked other apps in many key performance elements.
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Snapchat shared a new report into how its users feel when using the app. First, the data showed that approximately three out of four Snapchat users said they considered the time they spent on the app to be “meaningful,” which is the highest score across the major platforms.
TL;DR:
Parent company Snap commissioned a report that found its social platform outranked other apps in many key performance elements.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 19:07
Meta considers entering prediction markets
The company is reportedly developing a new app similar to Polymarket and Kalshi, according to The New York Times. Meta is reportedly looking to get into prediction markets.
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Meta is reportedly looking to get into prediction markets. The New York Times reported on Tuesday that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has tasked a new team with the development of a prediction markets app. Now, Meta is looking to tap into the same, in order to prop up engagement in its apps and add another element to its broader user experience.
TL;DR:
The company is reportedly developing a new app similar to Polymarket and Kalshi, according to The New York Times.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 17:51
YouTube releases updated ad metrics tools
Brands can search for trending content and get data on organic performance via parent company Google’s Insights Finder.
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YouTube announced the release of updated tools to assist marketers with their campaign approaches. These features include advanced insights into YouTube content trends, new data on creators that are open to brand partnerships and artificial intelligence-powered assistance for Demand Gen campaigns.
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Brands can search for trending content and get data on organic performance via parent company Google’s Insights Finder.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 17:40
Meta launches advanced AI ad features
Meta announced new artificial intelligence-powered ad experimentation options , which are designed to provide more capacity to test and learn with Meta’s latest AI ad tools.
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Meta announced new artificial intelligence-powered ad experimentation options , which are designed to provide more capacity to test and learn with Meta’s latest AI ad tools. First, Meta launched what it called a new “end-to-end creative solution with brand-aware creative generation tools” within Ads Manager.
TL;DR:
The company is rolling out new creative solutions, testing mechanisms and text generation tools
Socialmediatoday
Jun 23, 16:25
Meta launches new AI glasses models
The trio of new models includes a collaboration with Kylie Jenner and offers a lower price point than the company’s previous releases.
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Meta has launched a new series of fashion-forward artificial intelligence-powered glasses , which it’s calling Meta Glasses. For context, Meta’s Gen 2 Ray Ban glasses begin at around $379. That’s why today, in partnership with EssilorLuxottica, we’re introducing Meta Glasses.
TL;DR:
The trio of new models includes a collaboration with Kylie Jenner and offers a lower price point than the company’s previous releases.
Mashable
Jun 22, 21:27
Underdog joy is the heart of this World Cup
Curaçao, Cape Verde, Haiti, Iran, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Egypt are giving the 2026 World Cup its best underdog stories
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Since it began in 1930, the World Cup's most memorable moments are rarely the ones that end with a team lifting a trophy. In Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital city, fans gathered to watch their national team play Ecuador in its first-ever World Cup. But goalkeeper Eloy Room kept Curaçao in it, making 15 saves and helping the team hold on for the draw.
TL;DR:
Curaçao, Cape Verde, Haiti, Iran, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, and Egypt are giving the 2026 World Cup its best underdog stories
Mashable
Jun 22, 20:49
Messi makes World Cup history — the internet reacts
Days before his 39th birthday, legendary striker Lionel Messi gave Argentina fans an unbeatable gift — by becoming the top goalscorer in World Cup history.
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Days before his 39th birthday, legendary striker Lionel Messi gave Argentina fans an unbeatable gift — by becoming the top goalscorer in World Cup history. But some fans argued Messi didn't want to claim the record via a penalty — and if anything, the miss made him more of a social media legend ...
TL;DR:
Lionel Messi of Argentina scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals, against Austria — days before his 39th birthday.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 18:58
LinkedIn adds collaborative posts
The platform is rolling out a test at Cannes, and said it plans to offer the feature to more users over the next few months.
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LinkedIn announced a collaborative posts feature , which will enable creators to invite other LinkedIn members to be co-creators of in-stream posts. Users will then be able to invite other LinkedIn users or company pages to partner on posts.
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The platform is rolling out a test at Cannes, and said it plans to offer the feature to more users over the next few months.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 17:33
Pinterest showcases key in-app trends at Cannes
The platform’s Manifestival features a tattoo studio, an Adobe partnership and an interactive display of key cultural trends.
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Pinterest is hosting its fourth annual Manifestival showcase at Cannes this week, where it will present some of the key creative and engagement trends currently gaining steam on the platform. The presentation could help marketers better understand the relevance of the app in relation to their outreach efforts.
TL;DR:
The platform’s Manifestival features a tattoo studio, an Adobe partnership and an interactive display of key cultural trends.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 17:25
Reddit launches more integrated ad options to assure shoppers
Reddit’s free-form ads will enable advertisers to create more organic, engaging in-stream promotions.
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First, Reddit launched a free-form ad generator in beta . Reddit’s free-form ads can utilize text, images, GIFs and video in order to build ads that are more aligned with what Reddit users are engaging with. This feature will recommend headline and image combinations based on what’s driving engagement in Reddit communities.
TL;DR:
Reddit's free-form ads will enable advertisers to create more organic, engaging in-stream promotions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 17:18
Meta buys stake in Cred, appoints founder to lead WhatsApp
Meta invested $900 million for 20% of the India-based fintech firm and tapped Kunal Shah to succeed Will Cathcart at the messaging app.
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Meta announced a $900 million investment in India-based fintech company Cred. Meta clearly sees this partnership as a means to drive more business activity in WhatsApp. The challenge for Meta, and every social app looking to capitalize on India’s market, is that gaining traction with local businesses is a challenge, with government regulators wary of outside apps and platforms…
TL;DR:
Meta invested $900 million for 20% of the India-based fintech firm and tapped Kunal Shah to succeed Will Cathcart at the messaging app.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 17:01
TikTok adds new AI creation tools for marketers
The company’s artificial intelligence-powered Symphony Agent will generate new promotions based on trending campaigns, text and visual prompts.
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TikTok announced new artificial intelligence-powered features to assist in ad creation , including an agentic tool that can create whole video campaigns from text prompts. The tool will also be able to provide guidance based on an examination of trending videos in the app. Symphony Agent will also enable marketers to build video campaigns from scratch using the same approach.
TL;DR:
The company’s artificial intelligence-powered Symphony Agent will generate new promotions based on trending campaigns, text and visual prompts.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 22, 16:10
Instagram expands to Samsung Smart TV
The platform is now available on the majority of connected television devices in the U.S. and has begun testing new viewing features.
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Instagram expands to Samsung Smart TV. The platform is now available on the majority of connected television devices in the U.S. and has begun testing new viewing features.
TL;DR:
The platform is now available on the majority of connected television devices in the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 21, 17:39
LinkedIn lets users set core brand rules
Colors, fonts and even brand voice can all be created using the platform’s brand kit, which will then use these selections for artificial intelligence-generated content.
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LinkedIn has continued to quietly develop its new brand kit feature, which enables marketers to set their core brand colors and fonts, which LinkedIn’s system will then use in artificial intelligence generations of future promotions and content.
TL;DR:
Colors, fonts and even brand voice can all be created using the platform’s brand kit, which will then use these selections for artificial intelligence-generated content.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 21, 17:37
Snapchat launches ‘House of the Dragon’ AR ad in New York City
The interactive large-format experience in Times Square allows people to project themselves onto billboards while inserting themselves into fictional scenes.
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Snapchat is trying another way to bring its AR-powered ads to people. The platform launched an activation in New York City’s Times Square on June 18 that lets passersby interact with AR ads on large-format video screens. Snapchat’s Crowd Created AR activation provides an IRL booth experience that puts people directly in the scene of a digital ad.
TL;DR:
The interactive large-format experience in Times Square allows people to project themselves onto billboards while inserting themselves into fictional scenes.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 21, 17:34
YouTube updates mobile UI and channel membership pricing
Like, dislike, share and ask icons got a new format and channel managers will be able to factor in foreign exchange rates when setting membership prices.
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YouTube updated the UI in the mobile app to streamline the presentation of engagement stats in-stream. As shown in this image, YouTube videos on mobile now display the engagement stats below the video title next to the channel name. YouTube channel managers who are part of the YouTube Partner Program can set their own rates for channel memberships (up to $499.
TL;DR:
Like, dislike, share and ask icons got a new format and channel managers will be able to factor in foreign exchange rates when setting membership prices.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 21, 17:26
Snapchat launches AI-powered ad creation tools
Updated features include a chatbot-guided set-up and Snap Creator Network, which is designed to help advertisers find the right creator partners.
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Snapchat is looking to power up its ad business with new artificial intelligence-powered additions , including a guided ad set-up process, dynamic product ads and updated creative tools. First, Snapchat is rolling out an AI-powered chatbot within Snapchat Ads Manager.
TL;DR:
Updated features include a chatbot-guided set-up and Snap Creator Network, which is designed to help advertisers find the right creator partners.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 21, 17:20
Google adds AI bot to Ad Manager
The in-stream assistant provides personalized answers to campaign-related questions and is powered by Gemini’s artificial intelligence model.
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Google launched its own artificial-intelligence-powered assistant within Google Ad Manager , which will provide in-stream, in-depth assistance with Google Ads queries, including campaign troubleshooting and performance analysis.
TL;DR:
The in-stream assistant provides personalized answers to campaign-related questions and is powered by Gemini’s artificial intelligence model.
Mashable
Jun 18, 19:42
Mexico vs. South Korea: The World Cups friendliest rivalry
Ahead of Mexico vs. South Korea, fans from both countries are celebrating together, creating one of the World Cup's most delightful friendships.
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If the FIFA World Cup were a romantic comedy, Mexico and South Korea would be in the strangers-to-lovers arc. Before their teams even met on the pitch, fans from both countries had already hit it off. The relationship even has a slogan : "Coreano, hermano, ya eres Mexicano," which translates to "Korean brother, you're Mexican now.
TL;DR:
South Korea, fans from both countries are celebrating together, creating one of the World Cup's most delightful friendships.
Mashable
Jun 17, 20:06
The World Cup is turning lesser-known players into social media stars
Vozinha, Tim Payne, Kai Trewin, and other lesser-known World Cup players are becoming viral stars through creators and fans on social media.
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The World Cup has always created unlikely heroes. Much of his early attention came from Brazilian streamer Casimiro “ Cazé ” Miguel and his platform CazéTV , a digital sports broadcaster that has the rights to all 104 World Cup games in Brazil. During the match, Cazé noticed Vozinha's relatively small Instagram following and asked viewers to follow him.
TL;DR:
Vozinha, Tim Payne, Kai Trewin, and other lesser-known World Cup players are becoming viral stars through creators and fans on social media.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 19:17
LinkedIn adds GIF support
The update allows users to add moving animations directly to posts instead of having to convert them from other file formats.
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LinkedIn added GIF support within its comments , providing another way to respond to posts. However, some LinkedIn users will be excited by the opportunity to use reaction GIFs to respond to in-stream announcements and updates.
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The update allows users to add moving animations directly to posts instead of having to convert them from other file formats.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 19:12
Meta adds expanded analytics and AI restyle options to Edits
The standalone video editing app will get comparative data features, opacity controls for stickers and text and new audience insight options.
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Meta announced another round of updates for Edits, its standalone video editing app, including new sound effects, visual controls and artificial intelligence-powered restyle options. In addition to the new activity data, Edits users can now export that information to a PDF to share with brands and partners.
TL;DR:
The standalone video editing app will get comparative data features, opacity controls for stickers and text and new audience insight options.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 19:08
Reddit study highlights user purchase behavior
The research, created in partnership with WPP, examined how people on the platform gain insights into brands and make buying decisions.
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The data, based on combined surveys of more than 13,000 Reddit users, highlighted the evolving path to purchase online. Reddit said that influence is often in contrast to traditional marketing approaches. This data could inform marketing approaches in the app.
TL;DR:
The research, created in partnership with WPP, examined how people on the platform gain insights into brands and make buying decisions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 17:34
Meta updates its livestream shopping tools
The company is adding companies to its affiliate marketing program, working with more live commerce platforms and expanding live video ads.
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Meta announced a range of updates to its livestream promotion options , which are focused on driving more shopping activity within live broadcasts. First, Meta is expanding its live video ads to Instagram, and launching them globally on Facebook. Meta is also adding new live shopping tools on Facebook.
TL;DR:
The company is adding companies to its affiliate marketing program, working with more live commerce platforms and expanding live video ads.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 17:07
LinkedIn adds more digital skills visibility
Users can now include verifiable skills on the profiles from more than a dozen platforms including Hubspot, Fiverr and Beehiv.
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LinkedIn announced an expansion of its profile skills display with a connected apps element , which will enable more members to showcase their technical skills. Its primary focus was to provide a way for users to demonstrate artificial intelligence proficiency. Now, LinkedIn is expanding this to additional technical skills.
TL;DR:
Users can now include verifiable skills on the profiles from more than a dozen platforms including Hubspot, Fiverr and Beehiv.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 17, 15:35
Pinterest launches AI-powered ad and shopping tools
The platform unveiled a business assistant for marketers and an Ask Pinterest app to help shoppers with the discovery process.
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Pinterest announced a series of artificial intelligence-powered updates , including a new business assistant, improved ad creation tools and a new AI-powered app, which Pinterest said will help develop the next generation of shopping experiences. First, Pinterest has unveiled a new business assistant, which is the platform’s own AI assistant tool built into its Ads Manager.
TL;DR:
The platform unveiled a business assistant for marketers and an Ask Pinterest app to help shoppers with the discovery process.
Mashable
Jun 16, 22:08
World Cup tourists are obsessed with everyday America
As international fans crisscross the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they’re turning ordinary American staples into viral attractions, one Waffle House at a time.
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World Cup tourists are obsessed with everyday America. As international fans crisscross the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they’re turning ordinary American staples into viral attractions, one Waffle House at a time.
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As international fans crisscross the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 19:29
Social media is the leading source of news, per Reuters
The 2026 Digital News Report found that people rely on social media for news more than TV or news websites, with TikTok and Instagram influence increasing.
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Indeed, in another section of the report, the data showed that online creators are rising as key news sources in many regions. The challenge here is that social platforms are guided by algorithms, which can be manipulated by platform owners. Meanwhile, online creators are often motivated by engagement, or outside sponsorship, as opposed to accuracy.
TL;DR:
The 2026 Digital News Report found that people rely on social media for news more than TV or news websites, with TikTok and Instagram influence increasing.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 19:23
LinkedIn launches AI training courses for marketers
The program was created in partnership with Adobe and is designed to teach the fundamentals of artificial intelligence usage to marketing professionals.
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LinkedIn has partnered with Adobe to launch a new series of artificial intelligence training courses for marketers . LinkedIn said its AI Essentials for Marketers courses, which will be hosted within its LinkedIn Learning platform, are designed to help marketing professionals “develop the AI skills that matter most to their roles.
TL;DR:
The program was created in partnership with Adobe and is designed to teach the fundamentals of artificial intelligence usage to marketing professionals.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 19:17
Microsoft expands LinkedIn seniority targeting to more ad objectives
The company has extended the ways marketers can refine their promotions based on specific data sets.
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Microsoft expands LinkedIn seniority targeting to more ad objectives. The company has extended the ways marketers can refine their promotions based on specific data sets.
TL;DR:
The company has extended the ways marketers can refine their promotions based on specific data sets.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 17:44
Snap opens pre-orders for Specs AR glasses
The $2,195 devices come in two sizes and feature hundreds of custom built Snap Lenses, but the company faces stiff competition from Apple and Meta.
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That’s why the glasses are chunkier than the initial prototypes of Meta’s coming AR glasses, with Meta planning to launch its AR device with an accompanying compute puck that will need to be carried around when wearing the device.
TL;DR:
The $2,195 devices come in two sizes and feature hundreds of custom built Snap Lenses, but the company faces stiff competition from Apple and Meta.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 17:09
X adds Google Tag Manager integration
The app expanded several areas of its Ad Managers platform to make promotions more accessible to marketers regardless of coding experience.
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X wants to make it easier for ad partners to monitor the performance of their campaigns, via a new integration with Google Tag Manager that will enable expanded, simplified event tracking. Google’s Tag Manager enables marketers to deploy and manage marketing and analytics tags without modifying website code.
TL;DR:
The app expanded several areas of its Ad Managers platform to make promotions more accessible to marketers regardless of coding experience.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 16, 16:10
Threads reaches 500 million user milestone
The app added new communities and algorithm options as it nears the same number of actives as Elon Musk’s X.
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Threads has reached a new audience milestone , with the app now up to 500 million monthly active users. This new audience number puts Threads on par with X as the biggest real-time discussion platform on the web. However, even at launch Meta’s ambitions for Threads were significant.
TL;DR:
The app added new communities and algorithm options as it nears the same number of actives as Elon Musk’s X.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 17:47
Meta continues to deflect concerns about facial recognition features
The company has deflected multiple reports, including a new one from Wired, as it attempts to reassure the public that it’s taking “a thoughtful approach” to face ID.
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Meta has once again denied that it has concrete plans about adding facial recognition elements into its AI glasses, as another report suggested that the company has been working with facial ID providers on a possible new feature to assist in user connection through the device.
TL;DR:
The company has deflected multiple reports, including a new one from Wired, as it attempts to reassure the public that it’s taking “a thoughtful approach” to face ID.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 17:35
TikTok bans AI-generated voices in shopping livestreams
The platform said that livestreams could no longer feature non-real-time verbal interactions, as reported by Pyments.
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TikTok wants to crack down on the overuse of artificial intelligence-generated audio in livestreams. The app has added new rules that specifically ban the use of AI-generated voices or recordings in live broadcasts.
TL;DR:
The platform said that livestreams could no longer feature non-real-time verbal interactions, as reported by Pyments.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 17:24
Reddit campaigns drive performance on and off the platform
New data from the app showed that Reddit ads had a halo effect and impacted promotional reach across multiple surfaces.
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Reddit shared new research into the effectiveness of its ad platform for media and entertainment advertisers. A study conducted by TransUnion showed that Reddit ads generated an average $6.85 ROAS for media and entertainment advertisers. As per Reddit: “ Reddit is not just where people talk about what they have already seen.
TL;DR:
New data from the app showed that Reddit ads had a halo effect and impacted promotional reach across multiple surfaces.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 17:18
U.K. outlines plans for teen social media ban
The government said it would “learn the lessons from Australia’s experience” and implement a more effective policy, but core questions linger.
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government announced its plan to ban teenagers from social media apps. social media restrictions will use a similar model to Australia, and will see Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and X all banned for teens under the age of 16. The government said that it does not intend to include messaging services such as WhatsApp and Signal in its social media ban.
TL;DR:
The government said it would “learn the lessons from Australia’s experience” and implement a more effective policy, but core questions linger.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 16:55
Pinterest adds AI updates for SMBs
The platform is building out its artificial intelligence-powered Performance+ suite with a new customer acquisition feature and a one-click Shopify integration.
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Pinterest announced two new artificial intelligence-powered ad options for small businesses , as the platform looks to expand its revenue base by bringing more SMBs into the mix. Building out its AI-powered Performance+ suite, Pinterest is adding Performance+ new customer acquisition, which aims to help SMBs focus on acquiring new customers.
TL;DR:
The platform is building out its artificial intelligence-powered Performance+ suite with a new customer acquisition feature and a one-click Shopify integration.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 15, 16:24
Meta improves AI options on Facebook
The company is updating artificial intelligence-powered searches that can access public commentary and offering new photo and video editing tools.
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Meta announced new artificial intelligence-powered options for Facebook , which will bring more advanced AI capabilities to users. First, Meta wants to tap into the popularity of AI-powered discovery via an upgraded AI search experience. Meta seems to think that it has much of the same insight hidden inside its groups, and it’s now trying to get that out to more users.
TL;DR:
The company is updating artificial intelligence-powered searches that can access public commentary and offering new photo and video editing tools.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 14, 19:27
TikTok launches digital trading cards for 2026 FIFA World Cup
TikTok’s launching its own form of collectible NFTs for the event, which users can earn by undertaking various engagement actions.
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That would be TikTok, which has announced a new set of digital trading cards for the 2026 FIFA World Cup , created in conjunction with collectibles manufacturer Panini. TikTok’s World Cup digital cards will add an interactive collecting experience to its broader celebration of the World Cup in the app , which will also see the platform host a range of exclusive highlights and…
TL;DR:
TikTok’s launching its own form of collectible NFTs for the event, which users can earn by undertaking various engagement actions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 14, 19:25
YouTube announces new live concert series
YouTube has announced a new series of music events , in an effort to underline its presence as a key music discovery hub, and maximize brand association with rising music talent.
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YouTube has announced a new series of music events , in an effort to underline its presence as a key music discovery hub, and maximize brand association with rising music talent. YouTube’s “Music Nights” events will see the platform host a series of IRL concerts and meet-ups around the world, including events in the U.S., France, the U.K.
TL;DR:
YouTube’s new live music series will help to underline the platform’s role in music discovery and promotion.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 14, 19:21
X’s Grok chatbot is still generating fake nude images
New research shows that despite xAI’s claiming to have addressed misuse concerns, users are still able to generate deepfake nudes via Grok.
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In news that’s unlikely to be a big surprise to anyone, xAI’s Grok chatbot is still enabling users to generate deepfake nudes of pretty much anyone they feel like in the app, despite the widespread controversy over the Grok nudification trend earlier this year.
TL;DR:
New research shows that despite xAI’s claiming to have addressed misuse concerns, users are still able to generate deepfake nudes via Grok.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 14, 19:16
Edits is getting a desktop version and an AI production assistant
Meta has announced that a desktop version of its Edits video editing app is coming , while it’s also adding an artificial intelligence-powered assistant tool within the Edits workflow, which will be…
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Meta has announced that a desktop version of its Edits video editing app is coming , while it’s also adding an artificial intelligence-powered assistant tool within the Edits workflow, which will be able to assist with idea suggestions and analytics-based tips.
TL;DR:
A desktop version of Meta’s separate video editing app will help to enhance the utility of the tool.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 14, 19:13
Meta is giving 130K US veterans free AI glasses
Meta announced a new program to help promote its Meta AI glasses, by giving them away to over 130,000 U.S. veterans who are legally blind, in order to assist them in interacting with the world.
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Meta announced a new program to help promote its Meta AI glasses, by giving them away to over 130,000 U.S. Meta’s artificial intelligence-powered glasses now enable a range of functions, including the capacity to translate written documents, to provide insights into what the in-built cameras can see and real-time language translation.
TL;DR:
The program aims to showcase the utility of Meta’s evolving AI-powered device.
Mashable
Jun 14, 16:38
Social media reacts to Knicks storybook NBA Finals win
The New York Knicks just won their first NBA championship since 1973, ending one of the longest title droughts in professional sports, and both New York City and the internet have erupted in response.
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The New York Knicks just won their first NBA championship since 1973, ending one of the longest title droughts in professional sports, and both New York City and the internet have erupted in response. In fact, we would argue that last night represents one of the finest storybook endings in sports history, something so picture-perfect that you would think it was scripted.
TL;DR:
After 53 long years, the New York Knicks are once again NBA champions, and the vibes are indeed immaculate.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 19:07
LinkedIn outlines effective B2B marketing strategies
A new report in partnership with Bain & Company suggested that brands need to win over key decision makers to drive revenue.
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LinkedIn partnered with Bain & Company on a new report that examines the key considerations powering B2B buying decisions. Though all of these are elements within the buying process, LinkedIn said that buyability comes down to how decision makers can justify their thinking, which is why marketers need to ensure they address this in their pitch.
TL;DR:
A new report in partnership with Bain & Company suggested that brands need to win over key decision makers to drive revenue.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 19:05
Google partners with Walmart Connect, updates real estate listings
A new deal with Walmart will offer advertisers insight into how their campaigns impact sales, while enhanced property listings could drive queries.
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Google announced a new partnership with Walmart , which will provide advertisers with insight into how their Google campaigns impact sales lift in Walmart stores. First off, Google launched a new partnership with Walmart Connect, which will enable Google advertisers to utilize consumer purchase insights from Walmart in order to measure the effectiveness of their campaigns.
TL;DR:
A new deal with Walmart will offer advertisers insight into how their campaigns impact sales, while enhanced property listings could drive queries.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 17:52
Meta reiterates call for app store age checks
The company’s head of global safety said in a recent post that requiring users to individually upload personal documents to social media platforms created privacy risks.
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As per Davis: “For any of these proposals to succeed, apps must know the age of their users. Meta has highlighted this as a key issue several times . However, if age-checking was done at the app store level, that would create a more universal age checking process and put the onus on Apple and Google to confirm user ages before downloading an app.
TL;DR:
The company’s head of global safety said in a recent post that requiring users to individually upload personal documents to social media platforms created privacy risks.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 17:30
Meta publishes 2026 holiday planning guide
The playbook offers quarterly marketing suggestions for brands and includes data points showcasing how consumers use the company’s apps for discovery.
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To help with this, Meta published a guide to holiday marketing for 2026 , which provides a road map for effective promotions strategies. According to Meta, 85% of global holiday shoppers use Meta technologies on a weekly basis. Meta also said 78% of these shoppers have purchased directly in-app, and 1 in 3 frequently buy products in-store after seeing them on social media.
TL;DR:
The playbook offers quarterly marketing suggestions for brands and includes data points showcasing how consumers use the company’s apps for discovery.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 17:21
YouTube expands in-app messaging
The YouTube Chat feature allows eligible users to send and receive private messages in-stream without leaving the platform.
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YouTube announced an expansion of its in-app messaging feature , which it hopes will keep more sharing activity within the platform itself, as opposed to having users share links to YouTube content via other messaging apps.
TL;DR:
The YouTube Chat feature allows eligible users to send and receive private messages in-stream without leaving the platform.
Mashable
Jun 11, 17:08
Reddit rolls out video comments
Do you prefer recording a quick video to writing a text? If so, you'll really like what Reddit just unveiled. Reddit announced the launch of video comments for all of its users on Thursday.
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Reddit announced the launch of video comments for all of its users on Thursday. "The ability to reply with video gives users more creative ways to engage in communities they love." With the new feature, Reddit users will see a video icon alongside the existing image and GIF icon options in the comment box.
TL;DR:
Reddit users can now reply to posts with video.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 11, 16:30
Meta announces World Cup features across its apps
Users can celebrate the games on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and the company’s messaging platforms with custom stickers, live chats and other activations.
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Meta announced a range of new features to help users celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 , including live score alerts and chats, themed stickers and effects, custom emojis and an enhanced search experience on Instagram. On Instagram, Meta is rolling out an enhanced search experience, which will put more focus on World Cup content within a special search hub.
TL;DR:
Users can celebrate the games on Threads, Instagram, Facebook and the company’s messaging platforms with custom stickers, live chats and other activations.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 17:29
Snapchat announces activations for FIFA World Cup 2026
The app will offer new in-app fan gear, themed Lenses, and exclusive player insights and creator coverage of the games.
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First, Snapchat added a range of World Cup fan gear to the Bitmoji store, which will enable users to deck their Bitmoji depictions out in their preferred national colors. The app also added World Cup-related promotions and effects to showcase the event. The platform also launched a World Cup Topic Chat, which will provide a way for users to discuss the games in real time.
TL;DR:
The app will offer new in-app fan gear, themed Lenses, and exclusive player insights and creator coverage of the games.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 17:17
Pinterest adds Amazon Storefront linking
Eligible creators can now include affiliate links in the Pins, allowing their followers to easily shop products directly from the app.
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Pinterest is making it easier to facilitate affiliate in-app marketing opportunities with a new Amazon Storefront linking option that will enable Amazon Storefront creators to easily add affiliate links to their Pins.
TL;DR:
Eligible creators can now include affiliate links in the Pins, allowing their followers to easily shop products directly from the app.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 17:11
Instagram extends Your Algorithm to the main feed
The feature allows users to customize their feeds and choose what topics they’re interested in, based on individual in-app activity.
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Instagram announced an expansion of its Your Algorithm topic preference feature to the main feed, which will give users more ways to control what they’re shown in the app. The update will give IG users a means to tell the system what topics they actually like, and what they don’t.
TL;DR:
The feature allows users to customize their feeds and choose what topics they’re interested in, based on individual in-app activity.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 16:47
LinkedIn launches its eighth puzzle game
Wend combines traditional word search puzzles with Wordle-style gameplay, and offers another way for users to engage in “friendly competition,” said a company exec.
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LinkedIn has added yet another puzzle game, with a new word find-based game called Wend now available within its growing slate of in-app gaming options. Users are shown a letter grid and a list of the words they need to find, but the actual words themselves are hidden. Wend is LinkedIn’s eighth puzzle game, after the platform added Patches in March.
TL;DR:
Wend combines traditional word search puzzles with Wordle-style gameplay, and offers another way for users to engage in “friendly competition,” said a company exec.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 16:36
LinkedIn launches its own Creator Marketplace
The new section will offer brands an opportunity to partner with creators in the U.S. and Canada in order to reach their followers.
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LinkedIn launches its own Creator Marketplace. The new section will offer brands an opportunity to partner with creators in the U.S. and Canada in order to reach their followers.
TL;DR:
The new section will offer brands an opportunity to partner with creators in the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 10, 15:25
Snapchat implements new restrictions for users under 16
Younger teens won’t be able to share Spotlight videos or Stories outside of their mutual friend groups, although the change doesn’t impact Snaps.
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With many regions around the world now considering tougher social media restrictions for teens , Snapchat has announced its own proactive measures to better protect young teen users within its Spotlight and Stories elements.
TL;DR:
Younger teens won’t be able to share Spotlight videos or Stories outside of their mutual friend groups, although the change doesn’t impact Snaps.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 19:14
Meta launches pop-ups in Best Buy stores
The Meta Lab retail locations will offer 900-square-foot in-store experiential spaces to test artificial intelligence-powered devices in the U.S. and Canada.
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Meta is taking the next steps into consumer products, with the launch of a new series of Meta Labs pop-up locations in Best Buy stores in the U.S. I n February, CNBC reported that 7 million pairs of Meta’s AI glasses were sold in 2025, up from 2 million sales in 2023 and 2024 combined.
TL;DR:
The Meta Lab retail locations will offer 900-square-foot in-store experiential spaces to test artificial intelligence-powered devices in the U.S.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 19:12
Meta’s lax community standards have led to increased harassment
A new report from the Center for Countering Digital Hate found that hateful comments on Facebook have quadrupled since 2025.
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It seems that Meta’s more relaxed approach to content moderation, which aligned with its moves to ingratiate itself with the Trump Administration, has led to more abuse and harassment of political representatives in the app. That move was intended to allow for more free and open speech, which Meta said was in line with evolving community values.
TL;DR:
A new report from the Center for Countering Digital Hate found that hateful comments on Facebook have quadrupled since 2025.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 17:41
TikTok shares performance data on FMCG campaigns
A study on the effectiveness of on-platform fast-moving consumer goods ads explored the impact of promotions on offline sales.
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TikTok published the results of a new study into the effectiveness of TikTok promotions for fast-moving consumer goods campaigns. The research also examined how TikTok users are influenced to action by in-app promotions in the sector. Though the difference is slight, with TikTok campaigns, on average, generating a 2.7% increase in in-store sales, versus 2.
TL;DR:
A study on the effectiveness of on-platform fast-moving consumer goods ads explored the impact of promotions on offline sales.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 17:30
Snapchat releases data on video ad performance
The app used eye-tracking and a brand equity framework to determine how its user base responded to branded Commercials on Snapchat.
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Snapchat published the results of a new study , conducted in conjunction with Dentsu, which aims to provide more insight into how marketers can make best use of Snapchat video content for branding.
TL;DR:
The app used eye-tracking and a brand equity framework to determine how its user base responded to branded Commercials on Snapchat.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 17:08
Meta launches America’s Workforce Academy
The regional jobs and training program will partner with local construction companies in areas where the company is building data centers.
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According to Reuters , Meta is investing $115 million into the project, which will provide guaranteed job placement opportunities to those who take part in the program. At Meta, we see this as an incredible opportunity for these American heroes to power America’s future.” It's a good selling point.
TL;DR:
The regional jobs and training program will partner with local construction companies in areas where the company is building data centers.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 9, 16:07
Meta will use off-site activity to customize feed and AI responses
The company’s artificial intelligence chatbot will know what websites users have visited and use that information to tailor its algorithmic experiences.
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Meta gathers data from ad partners to help personalize ad content, including information delivered via its Meta Pixel website code, which shares website visitor activity info back to Meta. That enables Meta to deliver more relevant ads based on external actions. As explained by Meta: “We’re updating how we use information that other businesses already share with Meta.
TL;DR:
The company’s artificial intelligence chatbot will know what websites users have visited and use that information to tailor its algorithmic experiences.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 19:28
Instagram expands Reels post view ads to all advertisers
Instagram is giving more advertisers access to its post view ads in Reels, according to a press release sent to Social Media Today.
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Instagram is giving more advertisers access to its post view ads in Reels, according to a press release sent to Social Media Today. As displayed in these example screens, Instagram’s post view ads in Reels insert an auto-play ad between Reels clips, in order to facilitate improved placement, and catch engaged Reels users.
TL;DR:
The feature allows brands to place their video ads after the end of a Reel in stream.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 19:24
Meta walks back facial recognition in Meta AI app
The company had quietly added non-active elements, according to reporting from Wired, but removed the code shortly after the story dropped.
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It seems that Meta is highly concerned about potential backlash to its use of facial ID in more applications. The inclusion of this in the Meta AI app aligns with that reporting. However, the evidence would suggest that Meta wants to add face ID to its AI device.
TL;DR:
The company had quietly added non-active elements, according to reporting from Wired, but removed the code shortly after the story dropped.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 19:24
Meta walks back facial recognition in AI app
The company had quietly added non-active elements, according to reporting from Wired, but removed the code shortly after the story dropped.
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It seems that Meta is highly concerned about potential backlash to its use of facial ID in more applications. Last week, Wired reported that Meta had quietly added facial ID code elements into its Meta AI app. The inclusion of this in the Meta AI app aligns with that reporting.
TL;DR:
The company had quietly added non-active elements, according to reporting from Wired, but removed the code shortly after the story dropped.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 19:23
Instagram hack impacted more than 20,000 users
Meta sent out notifications to the affected users, according to This Week in Security, but the incident highlights larger artificial intelligence vulnerabilities.
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It seems that Meta’s artificial intelligence-powered account support tools may need some significant refinement before they’re able to take over from human staff. Meta is currently in the process of informing Instagram users who were impacted by a recent vulnerability exploit in its AI system .
TL;DR:
Meta sent out notifications to the affected users, according to This Week in Security, but the incident highlights larger artificial intelligence vulnerabilities.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 19:23
Instagram hack impacted more than 20K users
Meta sent out notifications to the affected users, according to This Week in Security, but the incident highlights larger artificial intelligence vulnerabilities.
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It seems that Meta’s artificial intelligence-powered account support tools may need some significant refinement before they’re able to take over from human staff. Meta is currently in the process of informing Instagram users who were impacted by a recent vulnerability exploit in its AI system .
TL;DR:
Meta sent out notifications to the affected users, according to This Week in Security, but the incident highlights larger artificial intelligence vulnerabilities.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 17:52
Meta launches new legal action against spyware manufacturer
NSO Group’s Pegasus tool was used in a recent phishing attempt on WhatsApp, and Meta wants to hold the firm accountable.
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Meta announced new legal action i n an effort to combat the use of software created by Israel-based spyware firm NSO Group, which was used in phishing attempts designed to steal data from WhatsApp users. The action is the latest in a series of steps Meta has undertaken to combat NSO-linked activities.
TL;DR:
NSO Group’s Pegasus tool was used in a recent phishing attempt on WhatsApp, and Meta wants to hold the firm accountable.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 17:25
TikTok announces 2026 Community Fest plans
The annual event, now in its third year, will focus on livestream creators and offers educational programming, competitions and fanbase celebrations.
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TikTok announced the plan for its 2026 Community Fest event , which will put a focus on live stream creators and will include various training and education elements designed to encourage more creators to tap into the app’s live elements. The sessions are designed to teach emerging creators how to build a robust community through TikTok Live.
TL;DR:
The annual event, now in its third year, will focus on livestream creators and offers educational programming, competitions and fanbase celebrations.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 8, 16:45
Instagram releases profile grid rearranging
The app teased the function earlier this year, and now all users will be able to control how their profile content is presented.
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After announcing that it was on the way back in January , Instagram has now released the option to rearrange posts on profile grids , giving users more ways to control how their content is presented in the app. The update will give IG users an easy way to update the content presentation on their profile, which could help people highlight their best content to profile visitors.
TL;DR:
The app teased the function earlier this year, and now all users will be able to control how their profile content is presented.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:54
Edits adds new audio and font features
Meta’s separate video editing app continues to roll out near-weekly updates for creators and social media marketers. The updates keep on rolling for Edits, Meta’s separate video editing app.
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The one-year-old video creation platform , which Meta initially launched to take on ByteDance’s CapCut, has become a valuable complement for video creators, providing access to an expanding range of editing tools and customization options. Edits is also getting more than 200 new sound effects, building on Meta’s ever-growing library of audio options.
TL;DR:
Meta’s separate video editing app continues to roll out near-weekly updates for creators and social media marketers.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:53
LinkedIn adds more post performance insights
The platform will provide users with detailed data points on who posts are reaching both in-network and out-of-network.
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LinkedIn wants to give creators more insight into their content performance in the app, via expanded insight data on how much of their post reach is coming from their followers, and how much is from those they’re not directly connected to.
TL;DR:
The platform will provide users with detailed data points on who posts are reaching both in-network and out-of-network.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:50
Google to pay SpaceX $290 million a month
The computing power deal will bring approximately $30 billion to Elon Musk’s combined companies ahead of a massive IPO.
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According to reporting from Bloomberg , SpaceX has secured a new deal with Google that will see the search giant pay SpaceX $920 million a month for additional computing power, as part of a cloud services deal that will run through mid-2029. As per Bloomberg: “Google will pay SpaceX the monthly fee from October this year through June 2029, SpaceX said in the filing Friday.
TL;DR:
The computing power deal will bring approximately $30 billion to Elon Musk’s combined companies ahead of a massive IPO.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:50
Google to pay SpaceX $920M a month
The computing power deal will bring approximately $30 billion to Elon Musk’s combined companies ahead of a massive IPO.
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According to reporting from Bloomberg , SpaceX has secured a new deal with Google that will see the search giant pay SpaceX $920 million a month for additional computing power, as part of a cloud services deal that will run through mid-2029. As per Bloomberg: “Google will pay SpaceX the monthly fee from October this year through June 2029, SpaceX said in the filing Friday.
TL;DR:
The computing power deal will bring approximately $30 billion to Elon Musk’s combined companies ahead of a massive IPO.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:47
YouTube ends product tag experiment
The feature, which allowed some creators to tag Shopping products in community posts, is no longer available and old tags will be removed.
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Last week, YouTube said it would be winding down its product tags in posts experiment , which had enabled some creators to tag Shopping products in community posts. YouTube’s Creator Posts provide a social media-like option to extend engagement with channel members through text-based posts that can be viewed in the Subscriptions feed in the app.
TL;DR:
The feature, which allowed some creators to tag Shopping products in community posts, is no longer available and old tags will be removed.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 7, 16:36
Instagram outlines add-on subscription offerings
Instagram Plus will cost $3.99 a month and feature Super Hearts, Story Spotlights and other niche tools to enhance the in-app experience.
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Instagram officially launched its new Instagram Plus add-on subscription package late last week, which includes a range of features designed to enhance the IG experience. As explained by Instagram: “ Instagram Plus offers exclusive features to help you express yourself, connect deeper with friends, and customize your experience in new ways.
TL;DR:
Instagram Plus will cost $3.99 a month and feature Super Hearts, Story Spotlights and other niche tools to enhance the in-app experience.
Mashable
Jun 5, 09:24
Why everyone online wants to live like Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa has become a very specific kind of modern pop star. Yes, she’s famous. Yes, she is smart with incredible taste. Yes, she’s beautiful and rich. Yes, she is constantly on vacation.
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Think travel TikTok . Think the creator economy fantasy that your life could be both your job and your art. That's not to say Lupa doesn't work extremely hard (she does) — it's just not visible on her Instagram feed.
TL;DR:
Dua Lipa has become a very specific kind of modern pop star: beautiful, erudite, successful, and in love with life.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 17:21
Snap acquires spatial AI developer Illumix
The deal aligns with Snap’s push to compete Meta and Apple in the artificial intelligence wearables market. Snap Inc.
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has acquired spatial AI developer Illumix a s part of an expanded push to build next-level AR and AI experiences that will help to blend digital and physical worlds. Illumix specializes in spatial understanding through its digital mapping system, which will help Snap power its evolving AR and AI glasses experience.
TL;DR:
The deal aligns with Snap’s push to compete Meta and Apple in the artificial intelligence wearables market.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 17:04
Snapchat is growing its presence in India
The app is expanding its user base and ad business in the region, and currently has more than 250 million monthly active users there.
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and Europe , there is one key region where the app is growing. The app just reported that its user base in India continues to expand, while it’s also steadily growing its local ad business there. Snapchat currently serves more than 250 million monthly active users in India, making that the app’s biggest regional market.
TL;DR:
The app is expanding its user base and ad business in the region, and currently has more than 250 million monthly active users there.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 16:45
TikTok launches micro-drama development program
The app is partnering with Sundance Institute to help train the next generation of filmmakers on how to create a short-form narrative series.
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TikTok is leaning into mini-dramas, with a new program that will provide training on how to write short, episodic narratives, and tap into the key themes that make these short-form soap operas a hit.
TL;DR:
The app is partnering with Sundance Institute to help train the next generation of filmmakers on how to create a short-form narrative series.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 16:45
TikTok launches microdrama development program
The app is partnering with Sundance Institute to help train the next generation of filmmakers on how to create a short-form narrative series.
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TikTok is leaning into mini-dramas, with a new program that will provide training on how to write short, episodic narratives, and tap into the key themes that make these short-form soap operas a hit. Partnering with Sundance Institute, TikTok’s writing program will “support the next generation of creator-led short-form storytelling for digital audiences,” per TikTok.
TL;DR:
The app is partnering with Sundance Institute to help train the next generation of filmmakers on how to create a short-form narrative series.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 16:40
WhatsApp adds new features ahead FIFA World Cup 2026
Updates include soccer-themed calling effects, stickers and updated icons to encourage fans to engage on the app during the games.
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WhatsApp announced a range of new features to help users celebrate FIFA World Cup 2026, including new calling effects, updated themed icons and graphics and enhanced discovery for World Cup-related channels. WhatsApp has also upgraded the soccer ball emoji in the app to the official match ball of the World Cup, adding a more thematic feel to its usage.
TL;DR:
Updates include soccer-themed calling effects, stickers and updated icons to encourage fans to engage on the app during the games.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 16:40
WhatsApp adds new features ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
Updates include soccer-themed calling effects, stickers and icons to encourage fans to engage on the app during the games.
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WhatsApp adds new features ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026. Updates include soccer-themed calling effects, stickers and icons to encourage fans to engage on the app during the games.
TL;DR:
Updates include soccer-themed calling effects, stickers and icons to encourage fans to engage on the app during the games.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 16:31
Meta launches creator assistant chatbot
The artificial intelligence-powered bot is designed to help creators by answering their questions and providing insights via the messaging interface.
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Meta has launched an artificial intelligence-powered creator assistant chatbot, which aims to help creators understand what to post, when to post, and more. The new chatbot offers customized advice and tips on how creators can maximize their Facebook and Instagram presences. As explained by Meta: “Creating great content is only part of your job as a creator.
TL;DR:
The artificial intelligence-powered bot is designed to help creators by answering their questions and providing insights via the messaging interface.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 4, 15:46
Google tests Search profiles
The new feature allows brands and creators to create custom search result listings using information gathered from social and video platforms.
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Google is testing a new way to help brands and creators maximize their search presence, via social media-style profiles within Google Search listings . These profiles will offer custom collections of brand or creator content, sourced from existing profiles on social and video online platforms.
TL;DR:
The new feature allows brands and creators to create custom search result listings using information gathered from social and video platforms.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 19:02
Hackers continue to exploit Meta’s AI agents
Despite Meta working to address a recent exploit that enabled hackers to trick Meta's AI chatbot into giving them control of Instagram profiles, reports suggest that this is still possible.
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Meta’s test case of empowering artificial intelligence systems to do the work of human staff isn’t going so great. Meanwhile, Meta also reportedly, didn’t have staff available to review the issue as it arose.
TL;DR:
Despite Meta working to address a recent exploit that enabled hackers to trick Meta's AI chatbot into giving them control of Instagram profiles, reports suggest that this is still possible.
Mashable
Jun 3, 18:00
Survey: Teens regularly see harmful content, messages on Snapchat
Teens on Snapchat may not be as safe as their parents think.
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Survey: Teens regularly see harmful content, messages on Snapchat. Teens on Snapchat may not be as safe as their parents think.
TL;DR:
Teens on Snapchat may not be as safe as their parents think.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 17:56
Google looks to ease publisher concerns over the impact of AI Overviews on referral traffic
Google’s looking to ease publisher concerns about traffic losses due to the rise of AI overviews in Search.
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But Google is aware of the impacts of its AI evolution, and it’s now working to add in new tools and options to keep Search referrals flowing through to websites. Google also added Preferred Sources to its AI overviews to help users define their own experience. This explainer also looks at how traditional SEO practices align with the AI shift.
TL;DR:
Google's looking to ease publisher concerns about traffic losses due to the rise of AI overviews in Search.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 17:43
Google tests proactive AI guidance app
The company’s Dreambeans platform is designed to cull information collected from connected Google apps and make recommendations to “inspire and delight.”
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The company’s Dreambeans platform is designed to cull information collected from connected Google apps and make recommendations to “inspire and delight.” Google is testing out a new artificial intelligence app that aims to provide proactive guidance and advice, based on what it knows about users’ history.
TL;DR:
The company’s Dreambeans platform is designed to cull information collected from connected Google apps and make recommendations to “inspire and delight.”
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 17:24
YouTube Shorts is awarded Media Rating Council accreditation
This is the first short-form video platform to gain this certification, which comes alongside the platform’s sixth consecutive overall approval rating.
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The certification provides an additional measure of assurance for advertisers regarding the safety of YouTube’s video ad placements. MRC accreditation means that YouTube’s ad system has been approved for controls and metrics, based on a third-party audit of the platform’s ad systems and processes.
TL;DR:
This is the first short-form video platform to gain this certification, which comes alongside the platform’s sixth consecutive overall approval rating.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 17:06
TikTok launches separate event-based app
The new TikTok Pro Events platform will let fans engage with daily challenges and win stars they can redeem for merchandise and other rewards.
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The company has launched a separate TikTok Pro Events app that will provide daily challenges and fan connection elements in order to “ deepen community immersion during major cultural milestones,” TikTok said.
TL;DR:
The new TikTok Pro Events platform will let fans engage with daily challenges and win stars they can redeem for merchandise and other rewards.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 3, 16:11
Meta offers new AI messaging options for businesses
At its Conversations event in London, the company announced global access to its artificial intelligence-powered agents via paid subscriptions.
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First, Meta is expanding access to its AI-powered business agents , which businesses can set up to answer common questions via Messenger and WhatsApp. As explained by Meta: “ More than one million businesses are already using a Meta Business Agent on WhatsApp and Messenger to respond to customers around the clock.
TL;DR:
At its Conversations event in London, the company announced global access to its artificial intelligence-powered agents via paid subscriptions.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 17:37
SEMRush offers AI discovery tips for brands
As artificial intelligence searches increase, companies need to consider how to best optimize their reach in order to meet users where they are.
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As more people turn to artificial intelligence chatbots for answers, the SEO landscape is shifting significantly. In its Q1 2026 report , ComScore found that U.S. In addition, according to a recent report from Pew Research, 64% of teens now use AI chatbots .
TL;DR:
As artificial intelligence searches increase, companies need to consider how to best optimize their reach in order to meet users where they are.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 17:25
Reddit launches video replies
Users will be able to offer video responses in comment threads, although subreddit moderators will be allowed to disable the feature.
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Reddit is rolling out another engagement option, offering video replies within comment threads and enabling users to share more direct video engagement in the app. Reddit’s video reply option will give Redditors another way to interact with each other. Reddit has recognized this, and said “video replies may be a better fit for some spaces than others.”
TL;DR:
Users will be able to offer video responses in comment threads, although subreddit moderators will be allowed to disable the feature.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 17:09
LinkedIn expands in-app mobile post boosting
The simplified, paid feature lets users put ad dollars behind organic posts and build a broader presence on the platform.
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LinkedIn is steadily expanding the rollout of its quick promote Boost option to more users on mobile devices. Now, it’s rolling out mobile post boosting to more users, enabling wider audience reach directly from the app. In order to use the Boost option in the mobile app, users must have ad credits within their account, which can then be allocated to the promotion.
TL;DR:
The simplified, paid feature lets users put ad dollars behind organic posts and build a broader presence on the platform.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 16:59
Meta tests connected Series reel option for video creators
The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
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Meta tests connected Series reel option for video creators. The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
TL;DR:
The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 16:59
Meta tests connected Series Reels option for video creators
The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
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Meta tests connected Series Reels option for video creators. The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
TL;DR:
The Instagram and Facebook feature offers link shortcuts and collections available on creator profiles, according to TechCrunch.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 16:52
X introduces video reaction option for iOS
The “Reply in post” feature allows users to respond to content with a filmed selfie overlay, making it easier to share reaction commentary.
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X introduced a “React with video” reply option on iOS , which will make it easier for X users to respond to a post with video commentary. Users will be able to overlay their selfie video over the original post, or choose the split-screen formatting option, providing a direct, native means to film video replies, with an on-screen post to provide more context.
TL;DR:
The “Reply in post” feature allows users to respond to content with a filmed selfie overlay, making it easier to share reaction commentary.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 16:52
X introduces video reaction feature for iOS
The update allows users to respond to content with a filmed selfie overlay, making it easier to share reaction commentary.
More:
X introduced a “React with video” reply option on iOS , which will make it easier for X users to respond to a post with video commentary. The feature is now available in the post reply options, and will open a new recording window that can be placed over the original post, with the front-facing camera activated and ready to film a video response.
TL;DR:
The update allows users to respond to content with a filmed selfie overlay, making it easier to share reaction commentary.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 2, 15:38
Meta rolls out global expansion of teen content restrictions
The company’s 13+ limitations are designed to prevent younger users from accessing inappropriate content.
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Meta is expanding its 13+ content settings globally to all teen users as the company continues to add more options to help parents manage their kids’ experience in its apps. Ideally, this move will also help Meta avoid further restrictions regarding teen social media usage. Now, Meta is expanding them worldwide.
TL;DR:
The company’s 13+ limitations are designed to prevent younger users from accessing inappropriate content.
Mashable
Jun 2, 11:01
How Shirley Raines broke through the noise of TikTok and Instagram to inspire millions
Ms. Shirley Raines broke through the noise of TikTok and Instagram to inspire millions with her advocacy for the homeless in Skid Row.
TL;DR:
Shirley Raines broke through the noise of TikTok and Instagram to inspire millions with her advocacy for the homeless in Skid Row.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 1, 19:24
LinkedIn chatbot optimization tips offer guidance on content planning
A post about increasing visibility and artificial intelligence discovery on the platform provides clues about broader brand strategy concepts.
TL;DR:
A post about increasing visibility and artificial intelligence discovery on the platform provides clues about broader brand strategy concepts.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 1, 19:20
Meta hires Snap director of global content partnerships
Jim Shepherd, who oversaw Snap’s celebrity relations and editorial strategy, will now help with Meta’s artificial intelligence device push, per The Hollywood Reporter.
TL;DR:
Jim Shepherd, who oversaw Snap’s celebrity relations and editorial strategy, will now help with Meta’s artificial intelligence device push, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Mashable
Jun 1, 18:30
Hackers say that Meta AI helped them compromise big Instagram accounts
Hackers reportedly tricked Meta AI into giving them access to any Instagram account they wanted. Now, Meta has responded.
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Hackers say that Meta AI helped them compromise big Instagram accounts. Hackers reportedly tricked Meta AI into giving them access to any Instagram account they wanted. Now, Meta has responded.
TL;DR:
Hackers reportedly tricked Meta AI into giving them access to any Instagram account they wanted.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 1, 17:14
Google shares guidance on visual AI generation
Tips about improving prompt language are applicable not only to the company’s Gemini Omni tool, but to other artificial intelligence models as well.
TL;DR:
Tips about improving prompt language are applicable not only to the company’s Gemini Omni tool, but to other artificial intelligence models as well.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 1, 16:54
Hackers got Meta AI to give them Instagram account access
A series of screenshots and videos revealed the steps taken to override security features and steal accounts, per a report from 404 Media.
TL;DR:
A series of screenshots and videos revealed the steps taken to override security features and steal accounts, per a report from 404 Media.
Socialmediatoday
Jun 1, 15:37
TikTok announces Pride Month 2026 programming
The app is highlighting eight rising LGBTQIA+ creators and small business owners throughout June in an effort to foster a more inclusive community.
TL;DR:
The app is highlighting eight rising LGBTQIA+ creators and small business owners throughout June in an effort to foster a more inclusive community.
Socialmediatoday
May 31, 17:32
Are social platforms going to charge all users for access?
Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have historically disagreed about this, but rising artificial intelligence expenses may result in costly new subscription options.
TL;DR:
Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have historically disagreed about this, but rising artificial intelligence expenses may result in costly new subscription options.
Socialmediatoday
May 31, 17:29
Instagram introduces teleprompter tool
Creators can roll scripts across their screens when recording to avoid having to read notes or memorize lines while making videos.
TL;DR:
Creators can roll scripts across their screens when recording to avoid having to read notes or memorize lines while making videos.
Socialmediatoday
May 31, 17:26
Threads music stickers available to all users
The feature allows for 30-second song clips in posts or replies, along with optional track art or lyrics.
TL;DR:
The feature allows for 30-second song clips in posts or replies, along with optional track art or lyrics.
Socialmediatoday
May 31, 17:22
Meta plans to introduce a wearable AI pendant
The device would give users access to Meta’s artificial intelligence capabilities and could also record conversations, per The Information.
TL;DR:
The device would give users access to Meta’s artificial intelligence capabilities and could also record conversations, per The Information.
Socialmediatoday
May 31, 17:06
YouTube updates AI for Ask Studio and CTV
The platform also announced new podcast playback features and added new options to Effects Maker.
TL;DR:
The platform also announced new podcast playback features and added new options to Effects Maker.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 18:45
TikTok Shops expands to new EU merchant countries
The expansion of the company’s European shopping capabilities comes as the company looks to increase its in-app revenue stream.
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TikTok announced another expansion in the availability of TikTok Shop to shoppers and retailers in Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands and Poland. As per TikTok: “Every month, 200 million people across Europe turn to TikTok to be entertained, inspired, and to discover new trends.
TL;DR:
The expansion of the company’s European shopping capabilities comes as the company looks to increase its in-app revenue stream.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 18:45
TikTok Shop grows to new EU merchant countries
The expansion of the company’s European shopping capabilities comes as it looks to increase its in-app revenue stream.
TL;DR:
The expansion of the company’s European shopping capabilities comes as it looks to increase its in-app revenue stream.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 17:50
Meta reaffirms funding for Oversight Board
The company allocated $13 million to keep the independent policy group running, according to a report from Reuters.
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Founded in 2020 , Meta’s Oversight Board is a collection of independent, external experts who are available to review appeals of content decisions made by Meta’s moderators. The group is funded by Meta, but the idea is that the board’s decisions remain independent from the company, offering impartial, third-party guidance on Meta’s policies, as well as a means for users to app…
TL;DR:
The company allocated $13 million to keep the independent policy group running, according to a report from Reuters.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 17:36
Meta outlines enhanced security measures ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
The platform is proactively implementing protocols to protect users and players from scams and harassment.
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Meta outlines enhanced security measures ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026. The platform is proactively implementing protocols to protect users and players from scams and harassment.
TL;DR:
The platform is proactively implementing protocols to protect users and players from scams and harassment.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 17:27
Reddit expands Shopify integration access globally
The two platforms offer a streamlined authorization for linking accounts, plus data tracking and automated catalog syncing.
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Reddit announced that all Shopify merchants globally can access its Shopify integration , which makes it easier for Shopify users to launch Reddit campaigns and glean insights from Reddit activity. Originally announced in March , Reddit’s Shopify integration aims to simplify catalog and pixel setup for Shopify merchants.
TL;DR:
The two platforms offer a streamlined authorization for linking accounts, plus data tracking and automated catalog syncing.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 17:21
Snapchat underlines its value as a sports engagement platform
The app is an important connection point for events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals.
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With the NBA Finals about to kick off, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 also about to get underway, Snapchat has made a new pitch to marketers in regards to the value that it provides to sports fans , as well as how advertisers can tap into this.
TL;DR:
The app is an important connection point for events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Super Bowl and the NBA Finals.
Socialmediatoday
May 28, 15:57
Meta and X make deals to monetize AI projects
Many businesses are looking to justify their massive artificial intelligence investments, but the AI bubble may be nearing its bursting point.
More:
At the same time, consumer sentiment around AI is declining as more AI options that seemingly offer little value get pumped into every other app. Meanwhile, Meta is looking to charge AI developers for access to advanced models and capacity as part of its latest subscription offerings.
TL;DR:
Many businesses are looking to justify their massive artificial intelligence investments, but the AI bubble may be nearing its bursting point.
Socialmediatoday
May 27, 17:54
Meta introduces new subscription add-ons and AI packages
Paid options for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp will offer additional features, while AI-focused plans will offer more capacity.
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As outlined by Naomi Gleit, Meta’s head of product , Meta’s new Plus products will provide a range of exclusive add-ons for paying users of each app. Meta said that more features will be added in future, but essentially, each Meta app will get its own iteration of a subscription service similar to Snapchat Plus or X Premium, with add-on elements that Meta hopes will entice sub…
TL;DR:
Paid options for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp will offer additional features, while AI-focused plans will offer more capacity.
Socialmediatoday
May 27, 17:36
TikTok drops second season of ‘In The Mix’ podcast
Four new episodes feature interviews with musicians Bebe Rexha, Lykke Li, Malcolm Todd and Josh Groban, along with returning host Jack Coyne of Trackstar.
More:
TikTok continues to solidify its place as a key platform for music discovery with the launch of its second season of its “TikTok In The Mix” live podcast interview series, created in partnership with T-Mobile. TikTok users are 74% more likely to discover and share new music in the app than the average short-form video user.
TL;DR:
Four new episodes feature interviews with musicians Bebe Rexha, Lykke Li, Malcolm Todd and Josh Groban, along with returning host Jack Coyne of Trackstar.
Socialmediatoday
May 27, 17:22
YouTube tests new fan engagement option for musicians
The feature, now in beta, allows music creators to share exclusive content with just the top 1% of their channel’s audience.
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YouTube is testing a new engagement option for musicians, which would enable them to share exclusive content with their top fans in order to drive more benefits for their key supporters. As first reported by TubeFilter , YouTube’s new “Top fans” publishing option would limit access to only the top 1% of a creator’s fanbase.
TL;DR:
The feature, now in beta, allows music creators to share exclusive content with the top 1% of their channel’s audience.
Socialmediatoday
May 27, 17:08
YouTube adds conversational custom feed generation
The platform’s prompt update reflects the way people interact with artificial intelligence chatbots and aligns with a more casual discovery style.
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YouTube is giving users more control over their discovery experience via a new conversational feed generation process that will make it easier to find what they’re looking for. Originally announced in November , YouTube’s Your Custom Feed option enables users to describe the feed experience they want.
TL;DR:
The update reflects the way people interact with AI chatbots and aligns with a more casual discovery style.
Mashable
May 26, 18:11
The Knicks have taken over New York City — and the internet
The city of New York is having a moment after the Knicks made it to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. The internet is celebrating.
More:
The New York Knicks are headed back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, and that sentence still doesn't feel real. Think about the timeline: A kid born the last time the Knicks played for a championship is now 27 years old.
TL;DR:
The city of New York is having a moment after the Knicks made it to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
Mashable
May 14, 14:55
Elon Musks X begins rolling out new History feature
On Elon Musk's X, Bookmarks are a popular way for users to keep track of posts they want to refer back to at a later time.
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On Elon Musk's X, Bookmarks are a popular way for users to keep track of posts they want to refer back to at a later time. However, the Bookmarks feature requires users to actively pick what posts they want to bookmark when they come across it. Then, those posts are saved to the Bookmarks tab.
TL;DR:
X users will be able to view their video and article history from within the iOS app.
Mashable
May 13, 18:41
Threads is adding a Grok-like AI search feature
Meta is bringing its AI chatbot to Threads in a way that should feel familiar to anyone who has spent time on X.
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Meta is bringing its AI chatbot to Threads in a way that should feel familiar to anyone who has spent time on X. According to Engadget , the company is testing a new feature that gives Meta AI a dedicated Threads account — @meta.ai — that users can tag in posts and replies to add additional context to the discussion.
TL;DR:
Threads is adding a new Meta Spark feature that's similar to X's Grok AI
Mashable
May 13, 16:00
Instagram adds Instants tool to send disappearing photo dumps to friends
Instagram has a new feature that lets you share an unedited photo dump that disappears once viewed. Yes, we have questions.
More:
Instagram adds Instants tool to send disappearing photo dumps to friends. Instagram has a new feature that lets you share an unedited photo dump that disappears once viewed. Yes, we have questions.
TL;DR:
Instagram has a new feature that lets you share an unedited photo dump that disappears once viewed.
Influencer Marketing Hub
May 12, 07:00
How Much Does TikTok Pay in 2026? (+Free Calculator) - Influencer Marketing Hub
How Much Does TikTok Pay in 2026? (+Free Calculator) Influencer Marketing Hub
TL;DR:
(+Free Calculator) Influencer Marketing Hub
Influencer Marketing Hub
May 6, 07:00
How Much do YouTubers Make in 2026? + YouTube Earnings Calculator - Influencer Marketing Hub
How Much do YouTubers Make in 2026? + YouTube Earnings Calculator Influencer Marketing Hub
TL;DR:
+ YouTube Earnings Calculator Influencer Marketing Hub
Mashable
May 5, 17:35
Vine reboot, diVine, is out now to save us from AI slop
Vine reboot, divine, has officially launched as a new app and Vine archive.
More:
Vine reboot, diVine, is out now to save us from AI slop. Vine reboot, divine, has officially launched as a new app and Vine archive.
TL;DR:
Vine reboot, divine, has officially launched as a new app and Vine archive.
Mashable
May 5, 15:38
Is Threads down? Users report outage with social media app.
It seems like every week another app or digital platform shuts down unexpectedly, and this time social media app Threads may be experiencing an outage.
More:
It seems like every week another app or digital platform shuts down unexpectedly, and this time social media app Threads may be experiencing an outage. On the morning of May 5, multiple Mashable editors were unable to access the Threads app. (Disclosure: DownDetector and Mashable are both owned by the same parent company, Ziff Davis.
TL;DR:
Threads, the Meta social media app, appeared to experience some problems on the morning of Tuesday, May 5.
Mashable
May 5, 11:00
Parents on Instagram, Facebook: Expect a big message from Meta
Amid the second phase of a high-profile child safety trial in New Mexico, Meta is announcing new measures designed to ensure teens on its platforms are subject to age-related protections.
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All users that Meta has identified as a parent, not just adults who supervise a Teen Account, will receive the notification. Facebook users for the first time. In April 2025, Meta began using AI to identify teen users who listed an adult age in their account.
TL;DR:
Meta wants to reach parents on Instagram and Facebook with this message.
Mashable
May 1, 19:01
Friendster has returned! But you can only connect with offline friends.
The early-2000s social networking platform has now returned roughly 24 years later with a whole new gimmick: Users can only connect with real-life friends.
More:
Friendster doesn't show users any posts. The new Friendster is built for users to strictly follow people they know in real-life. This is the only way to connect with someone on the platform.
TL;DR:
Friendster has been relaunched roughly 24 years after it first debuted as one of the first social networking websites.