Social Media News Round-Up: 02/07/21

Jul 2

Instagram tests uploading images and videos from desktop

Instagram has launched its first live test of a new option that would allow users to publish feed posts and videos from their desktop. The test shows the ability to upload images directly from your desktop’s files and then edit them with all of the same editing features available in-app. Users have been able to upload Instagram feed and IGTV posts from desktop since 2019 via Facebook’s Creator Studio app, but that has been restricted to business accounts and doesn’t provide all of the regular Instagram editing tools.

Facebook launches live audio rooms with “front row” feature

Facebook is officially rolling out its new live audio rooms feature - its answer to Clubhouse. The layout appears very similar to its rival app, however there are some differences, most notably the “front row” feature. As explained by Facebook: “Listeners can offer support and show appreciation to the public figure host of the Live Audio Room by sending Stars, which bumps those listeners up to the “front row”. The “front row” is a special section that highlights people who sent Stars, so hosts can recognise supporters.”

Instagram tests sticker links for Stories

Instagram is officially testing linked stickers with smaller creators with less than 10,000 followers. Currently attaching links in Stories is only possible via the swipe-up link, and this feature is only available to creators with more than 10,000 followers. But with the micro-influencers on the rise and proving their engagement rates can be just as good (if not better) than influencers with bigger followings, the need for a sticker link is greater than ever.

Facebook announces new publishing and newsletter subscription platform Bulletin

Facebook is dipping its toes deeper into the publishing and newsletter subscription world with its new platform Bulletin. Bulletin will allow creators to publish their writing and have people subscribe to free or paid newsletters, which CEO Mark Zuckerberg says will help “empower independent writers, helping them reach new audiences and power their businesses.” Bulletin is currently only open to a hand-picked list of creators in the US, who will get their own standalone website with their own branding outside of Facebook, with articles, names, logos, and colours all customisable. Facebook Pay will handle payments and Bulletin content will be distributed across Facebook News.

Pinterest bans weight loss ads

Pinterest has become the only major platform to ban all weight loss ads. In a recent blog post, it announced the new policy, explaining that “Pinterest is the place people come for inspiration to create life they love...we’re empowering Pinners to plan for a summer and beyond without weight loss ads, so they can focus on what matters most.” The policy includes a ban on any weight loss language or imagery, testimonials regarding weight loss or weight loss products, any language or imagery that idealises or denigrates certain body types, and references to BMI. We love to see it.

New speakers announced for SocialDay Festival 2021

That’s right, this year’s incredible line-up just keeps on growing. Head to www.socialday.uk/line-up to see our newest additions and grab your ticket today by clicking below!