Instagram changes its algorithm – again – and a TikToker exposes influencer photography hacks. Time to catch up, time for a social media debrief.
As the second month of 2021 is already coming to an end, we take a look at what made the news headlines in social media and influencer marketing.
From Instagram’s latest algorithm update for Reels, a model exposing influencers sneaky photography hacks, to the latest – and very exclusive – social media app, and a new way YouTubers can monetize their time on the platform.
The ASA rules against filters
The Advertising Standards Authority has warned brands and influencers against using filters while promoting products on social media. They’ve ruled filters shouldn’t be used in social media ads if they exaggerate the effect of the product. For example, using a beauty filter when promoting makeup or skincare.
This aims to limit misleading claims and is in response to a social campaign called #filterdrop. The watchdog ruled against three ads for tanning products at the same time. Have a read of Vamp’s take on the ruling here.
The latest Clubhouse fever
Clubhouse is this month’s hot new thing in social media and has quickly moved from murmur to buzz for its exclusivity, gaining high-profile fans like Elon Musk. Imagine a scrollable feed of live podcasts, tailored towards your every interest – that’s essentially what Clubhouse is.
The app is still being worked on as new users join, so you can only sign up with an invite from an existing user.
According to The New York Times, Facebook is working on a ‘similar product’. Meanwhile Twitter is working to upgrade and roll out its own variation called ‘Spaces’. Learn more on CMO.
Instagram limits Story sharing
Some Instagram users are finding they can no longer share their in feed posts to their Stories – as the platform tests a potential update. “We hear from our community that they want to see fewer posts in Stories,” said a notification.
Many use this as a hack to get around the platform’s unpredictable algorithm, to re-share inspiring content or informative news, or to just support creators and small businesses. Learn more on The Verge.
Facebook’s Australian news ban
After months of back and forth with the Australian Government, Facebook decided to cut Australian news publishers off from its service, rather than adhering to the Government’s Media Bargaining Code.
However, Facebook has now agreed to start restoring Australian news pages back onto it’s platform after new amendments to the Government’s code. This leaves Facebook with more time to negotiate separate deals with publishers. Read more on Social Media Today.
Influencer hacks exposed
A model who is revealing influencer photography hacks on TikTok is racking up millions of views – and has even left us mindblown.
@karajewel reveals hacks like how bloggers and influencers get the perfect mirror shot and how they take pictures in glasses with no reflection – the videos ‘lift the lid’ on influencer secrets – and TikTokers are loving the exposed tips.
Reels don’t want TikToks
In another strike against recycled content, Instagram says its algorithm won’t promote Reels that have a TikTok watermark.
In new guidance, they recommend that Reels users post vertical videos, use music found in Instagram’s library and ‘start trends’. Reels covered by text, blurry videos or videos that have a border also won’t be recommended to watch in users’ feeds. Discover more on The Verge.
Social media manager lols
@workinsocialtheysaid is the new #relatable Instagram account every social media manager needs to follow.
The account documents the struggles of running online communities through memes. We love its coverage of industry inside jokes – see their Weetabix highlight. If you know, you know.
Tipping YouTubers
YouTube is testing a new way for creators to monetise their content. Currently in beta stages, the feature is available to creators who have been invited to test it by YouTube.
Users can purchase an ‘applause’ for a standard amount of $2, which is essentially the equivalent to putting money in a ‘tip pot’. It also sounds very similar to Instagram’s Live Badges. Read more about this on Talking Influence.
Super Bowl’s winning ads
While this year’s halftime ads “lacked bite and emotional resonance” there were exceptions. Reddit stood out with a five-second static ad, that nodded to the GameStop controversy.
Meanwhile over 59 million US Snapchatters engaged with AR Lenses on Super Bowl Sunday, including lenses from Cheetos and Tide. Learn more on Marketing Dive.
TikTok tequila detective
Ever heard of the saying: ‘The devil works hard, but Kris Jenner works harder’? Well now there’s a TikToker working harder than Kris Jenner.
@hfazzz has become an overnight sensation as her theory on Kendall Jenner launching a tequila brand was proved right. She had been stalking the Jenner’s socials and posting about it for weeks before Kendall confirmed the news on her Instagram.
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