Highlights of the Month – August
5 min read
5 min read
by Milica Stankić
Instagram is now testing a groundbreaking feature to boost engagement. Users can add their own photos and videos to existing posts, fostering interactive connections within the platform. This feature lets post viewers submit additions, pending approval by the original creator, enabling curated group albums and shared moments. Instagram has been promoting engagement, introducing the “Add Yours” sticker for Stories in 2021 and expanding video remixes inspired by TikTok’s success. TikTok has transformed users from observers to active contributors, and Instagram is following suit. Brands, especially business accounts, could benefit from this feature. Rather than urging users to add specific hashtags and search for content, brands can encourage direct contributions to the original post. This content would be exclusively visible as part of the creator’s update, not on users’ profiles, potentially motivating more individuals to share their unique perspectives, insights, and memories related to brand accounts. Stay tuned for updates!
Google is revolutionizing search with its AI-powered Search Generative Experience (SGE). It now showcases contextually relevant YouTube videos at the forefront of search results, offering enhanced exposure to how-to content. Google’s generative AI will visually match specific queries, enriching user understanding. According to Google, this feature delivers more profound insights through visuals. For instance, when searching for “tiniest birds of prey,” users can swiftly reference images of the birds and acquire relevant web information. Over the next week, videos will appear in select overviews, such as yoga pose demonstrations or stain removal techniques. Google’s gradual testing aims to ensure result reliability without affecting core ad business through promoted links. These in-stream visuals will transform user discovery behaviors, gradually becoming part of everyday search experiences. Additionally, Google has improved SGE result speed and added date context to provided links, enhancing the search experience. Stay tuned to adapt your SEO strategy accordingly.
Meta is delving into the realm of AI with chatbots sporting various personas, as per a recent Financial Times report. The report highlights Meta’s experiments with diverse chatbot personas for integration into Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram. These personas range from historical figures like Abraham Lincoln to more stereotypical characters, such as a globetrotting surfer. These generative response tools are akin to ChatGPT but tailored exclusively for Meta’s apps. Soon, users will effortlessly summon these AI chatbots within DM threads by directing queries to @ai. Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, unveiled AI personas in February, forming a vital component of a fresh product group focused on AI tools. Beyond chatbots, Meta is busy crafting visual creation tools for Instagram, text assistants for WhatsApp, and advanced video creation features. As generative AI gains traction, Meta’s strategic embrace of these tools could reshape the social media landscape. Still, the enduring appeal of these AI personas for user engagement remains uncertain. FT reports a September launch for Meta’s new AI chatbots.
TikTok is simplifying the process of revealing AI-generated content. A new “AI-generated content” toggle is emerging in the “more options” section for video uploads. This feature aligns with TikTok’s March content policies, mandating deepfake and AI content disclosure in video captions or through identifying stickers. It triggers a pop-up that reminds creators to label AI-made content featuring “realistic scenes” to prevent potential takedowns. While this feature seems to be gradually rolling out, it wasn’t immediately accessible to everyone. TikTok has yet to respond to inquiries about the rollout. This development coincides with Instagram’s work on similar AI content disclosure labels, reflecting the commitment of tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, alongside Instagram parent company Meta, to responsible AI development and clear user information.
X, the former Twitter, is rapidly becoming an “everything app,” with CEO Linda Yaccarino announcing the addition of video calls. This feature will allow users to make video chat calls without sharing their phone numbers on the platform. The rebranding has seen X shed Twitter’s blue bird logo, lexicon, and tagline, marking a swift shift toward Musk’s grand vision for the platform as an “everything app.” Live video features and enhanced video capabilities are integral to this transition, exemplified by Musk’s recent live stream. X employees hinted at the video call feature’s arrival, signaling the platform’s ongoing transformation. While Yaccarino didn’t provide a specific launch date, X’s swift evolution under Musk’s leadership promises a dynamic and diversified platform experience.
Any reuse, transmission, republication, duplication, or distribution of this article and graphics, without the express written permission of Aryxe is not allowed. If you wish to reuse, transmit, republish, duplicate or distribute this article, cite passages, or use in full, including but not limited to proprietary text and graphics, please request written permission.
