Social Media Updates: August 2022

A new month means new platform updates. What are the key social media updates you need to be aware of?

TikTok Updates

TikTok tests “Nearby” content feed

TikTok recently confirmed it is working on a new content feed, “Nearby”, which can be found next to the “Following” and “For You Page” tabs at the top of the screen. The new feed will display content posted by users in your current location. 

A dedicated local feed could give you access to a huge, engaged nearby user group. When you also consider that almost 40% of young people now refer to TikTok or Instagram instead of Google Search when they’re looking for a place to eat, this could present a huge promotional opportunity.

TikTok launches new Shopping Ads

TikTok has introduced new shopping ads to push forward its ecommerce integrations, providing more ways for brands to promote their products in-stream. The new ad formats include Video Shopping Ads, Catalogue Listing Ads, and LIVE Shopping Ads. 

TikTok has offered the same options in the Chinese version of TikTok, ‘Douyin’, for the past few years. The platform is waiting for the West to catch up with Asia in social commerce usage.

Instagram Updates

Instagram creates BeReal clone

Instagram has once again taken heavy inspiration from another platform. BeReal has taken the social world by storm, so Instagram has created IG Candid. Instagram first added a “Dual Camera” feature, where users can take a photo using the selfie and back cameras at the same time. App researcher Alessandro Paluzzi uncovered the latest feature the platform is testing, “IG Candid Challenges”.

It appears that Instagram has copied BeReal’s functionality word for word, with users having two minutes to share what they’re doing, from the moment they receive a random notification. 

Instagram tests optional full-screen feed display

Instagram recently tested a full-screen main feed, which incorporated regular posts, Stories and Reels into a single, TikTok-style display. But, it quickly withdrew this test following major user backlash and a petition titled “Make Instagram Instagram again”. 

But now, Instagram has added the full-screen option as a switch. The new option would be added to the menu accessible via the Instagram logo drop down, along with the options to sort your feed by ‘Following’ or ‘Favorites’.

You can now schedule your Reels

All creators can now schedule Reels posting using Meta’s Creator Studio app, providing the opportunity to post your content at an optimised time. 

In addition to this, Meta recently introduced a new video editing tool within the app, which makes it easier for users to cut their longer clips into Reels. 

Twitter Updates

Twitter rolls out podcasts

Twitter has finally launched a new podcast display within its Spaces tab, which will now be renamed the “Audio” tab. 

The new Audio tab will highlight podcasts and Spaces within a central location, with broadcasts being separated into different topics (or Stations, as Twitter calls them), helping users with discovery.

Twitter tests more Professional Account options 

Twitter has been busy adding more options to its Professional Account tools, including a new variable CTA link. The platform will now offer a Spotlight option alongside a customised Link display, allowing users to choose from a variety of CTAs.

The CTAs will provide another way for Professional users to drive more direct traffic from their Twitter profile.

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