2024 Social Media Updates & News

Stay ahead of the curve with our comprehensive roundup of 2024's most significant social media updates and news, meticulously organized by platform to empower marketers with the latest insights and trends.

New on Meta 

• EU users will be able to control how their information is used across each element of Meta’s platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger presences. Read more
• Meta announced that it will remove and consolidate some of its detailed ad targeting options to avoid manual, granular ad targeting. Read more
• Instagram is testing a new collaborative feature that will allow users to create Stories for their friends. Read more
• Instagram has now rolled out its new “Flipside” alternative profile space, which is only accessible to you and your chosen connections. Read more
  
  

New on TikTok

• TikTok has added the new “Cutout” editing option, which enables users to easily replace the background of their video with an alternative scene. Read more
• TikTok keeps improving platform accessibility by allowing users to adjust TikTok’s text size via a new slider in the Settings. Read more
• TikTok is testing the new 30-minute video upload option in the app’s beta version, which will also include broader monetization potential. Read more
• TikTok is offering some creators “increased views” on content shot in landscape format to experiment with different content types. Read more

New on X (Twitter)

• X is testing a new dedicated video tab that will be located in the lower function bar of the app to make it easier to discover the latest video content. Read more
• X announced a new partnership with Shopify, providing more opportunities for Shopify merchants to promote their products in the app. Read more
• X has added a new ad option that will enable marketers to target X Premium subscribers specifically with their campaigns. Read more
• X community admins can now add up to 10 topic tags to their groups, which will help highlight them in related in-app searches to improve discovery. Read more

New on other platforms

• YouTube has launched its AdBlitz hub, where all the Super Bowl ads will be displayed before, during, and after the big game. Read more
• LinkedIn has announced that Lookalike Audiences will be discontinued as an ad targeting option. Recommended alternatives are “Predictive Audiences” or “Audience Expansion”. Read more
• Pinterest has expanded its direct linking options, offering brands more opportunities to drive traffic and conversions from their Pins and Pin ads. Read more

New on Meta 

• Meta expanded access to its Creator Marketplace tool, allowing businesses in more regions to search for Instagram creators. Read more
• Meta is collaborating with industry partners to establish standards for identifying AI-generated content, with plans to label such images on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads in the coming months. Read more
• Instagram is testing carousels within Reels, offering users and brands the ability to post multiple videos or still images in a single Reels post. Read more
• Meta introduced the 'Meta Verified' comment filter on Instagram, enabling prioritized engagement for verified celebrities and individuals. Read more
  
  

New on TikTok

• TikTok, in collaboration with the Cannes Film Festival, is hosting its third annual #TikTokShortFilm competition until March 15th, providing creators a global platform. Read more

• TikTok’s AI-powered Creative Assistant tool is now on Adobe Express and TikTok’s Creative Center, allowing users to access trend-based ideas and inspiration in both apps. Read more

• TikTok is prompting users to download a dedicated Search shortcut, simplifying content discovery and providing quick access to TikTok content from their device’s Home Screen.  Read more

New on X (Twitter)

• X is testing a sorting feature for post replies, allowing users to arrange responses by “Most recent”, “Most liked” or "Trending”. Read more
• X broadened access for all advertisers to vertical video feed ads, which appear when users tap through specific video clips in-stream. Read more
• Following successful testing with YouTube star MrBeast, X introduced the "Creator Targeting" ad option, enabling brands to sponsor approved video creators in the app, with ads displayed as pre-rolls. Read more

New on other platforms

• YouTube introduced the "Collab" tool for Shorts,  allowing creators to engage in split-screen duets and respond to existing videos, enhancing competition with TikTok’s popular feature. Read more
• LinkedIn is discontinuing its"Creator Mode" option,  removing profile hashtags, and keeping most  Creator Mode elements as optional tools for all users, including the retention of the "Follow" button. Read more
• Pinterest introduced the "Pinterest Palette,"  summarizing color trends from dominant Pins and identifying five key palettes expected to resonate this year. Read more
  
  

New on Meta 

• Instagram has launched its new “Ads with Promo Codes” option to all brands globally. Read more

• Instagram updated hashtag search, now directing users to broader search results instead of "Top Posts" for improved discovery within the app. Read more
• Meta is restricting political content, requiring users to opt-in to view it in their main feed, reflecting its move away from news and politics since 2021. Read more
• Instagram is testing longer Reels, allowing some users to upload 3-minute videos instead of the current 90-second limit. Read more
• Instagram introduced new DM features, including message editing within 15 minutes of sending and pinning up to 3 chats to the top of the inbox. Read more
  

New on TikTok

• TikTok introduced the Creator Rewards Program to pay creators for uploading high-quality content based on originality, play duration, search value, and audience engagement. Read more
• TikTok added more commerce promotion options by launching Video Shopping Ads globally and allowing brands to auto-populate their product catalog into Carousel and Product Tiles formats. Read more
• TikTok updated the “Sounds for Business” library with influencer audio clips, offering advertisers more options for campaigns. Read more
  

New on other platforms

• YouTube is forcing creators to label AI-generated videos to facilitate viewer discernment between real and synthetic content. Read more
• LinkedIn is expanding its Thought Leader ads to allow brands to promote content from any user on the platform, not just their own employees. Read more
• Pinterest introduced "Body Type Ranges" AI-powered search filter for women’s fashion and other verticals, aiding users in finding more inclusive results. Read more
  

New on Meta 

• Meta is updating its AI labeling policy to recognize more AI-generated content in various forms, labeling them as "Made with AI," using both industry signals and user disclosures. Read more
• Instagram introduced a Notify sticker for creators, enhancing their ability to notify fans about their posts within the app. Read more
• Meta introduced Meta AI, an advanced chatbot across its platforms, enabling users to access real-time information without leaving the apps. Read more
• Instagram has confirmed it will roll out Profile Notes to all users, offering a new way to share thoughts and prompt engagement on profiles. Read more
  

New on X

• Elon Musk hinted at reviving Vine with a tweet amid controversies, as the X team explores the app's code base for potential revival. Read more
  
• X is incentivizing brands to join Verified for Organizations, offering ad credits equal to the subscription cost, aiming to boost participation and engagement. Read more
• X appointed a new Head of Safety, Kylie McRoberts, aiming to enhance moderation processes following previous controversies, including disagreements over content safety standards. Read more
  

New on other platforms

• After President Biden approved the TikTok sell-off bill, the platform faces a 270-day deadline for acquisition by a US-based owner or potential ban in the US, prompting TikTok to vow legal opposition, labeling the bill as an unconstitutional threat. Read more
• YouTube is introducing new Shopping features for creators, including Shopping Collections, enabling creators to curate products from their favorite brands for users to browse through. Read more
  
• LinkedIn is experimenting with a premium business subscription option, LinkedIn Premium Company Pages, offering dedicated features for brands to stand out on the platform. Read more
• Snapchat introduced an AR ring try-on experience for Cartier's Trinity Collection campaign, allowing users to virtually try on the latest ring design on their own finger. Read more

New on Meta 

• Meta has introduced a new feature allowing Catalog Product Ads (previously known as Dynamic ads) to include video assets in addition to still images. Read more
• Instagram is testing a "Lately" feature that creates an automatically generated highlight on user profiles to display recent Stories beyond the usual 24-hour limit. Read more
• Instagram's chief, Adam Mosseri, stated that post share rates are now a primary factor in determining reach on the platform, surpassing watch time, likes, and comments. Read more
• Instagram is developing a Peek feature that allows users to send quick, unedited, and unfiltered photos to friends, reminiscent of the BeReal trend. Read more
  
• Meta is expanding its Verification for Business subscription, offering new elements and higher-priced tiers, while extending availability to more countries. Read more
  

New on TikTok 

• TikTok has introduced a Fan Spotlight feature to enhance music promotions by allowing artists to highlight up to five favorite fan videos on their music tab. Read more
• At TikTok World 2024, TikTok unveiled the "Symphony" AI creative suite, the centralized "TikTok One" marketing platform, and two new ad products: "Interactive Add-Ons for TopView" and "Duet with Branded Mission." Read more
• TikTok has launched the Change Makers Program to support and highlight creators and non-profits driving positive societal impact through their content. Read more
• TikTok has introduced a new certification program for digital marketers called "Media Buying," which aims to showcase expertise in TikTok advertising. Read more
• TikTok has established a new multi-dimensional licensing agreement with Universal Music Group to enhance promotional opportunities and remuneration for artists. Read more
  

New on X

• X is testing a new Communities quick link in the bottom navigation bar alongside its Grok chatbot shortcut, potentially expanding access to Communities. Read more
  
• X is hiding post likes for all users to make their interests private and encourage liking without fear of public scrutiny, aiming to improve user engagement. Read more
• The platform has switched over from the “twitter.com” domain name to “x.com” for all of its primary systems. Read more

New on other platforms

• LinkedIn has partnered with the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) to add labels to AI-generated content in-stream. Read more
• YouTube has launched its AI-powered "Jump Ahead" feature for Premium users, allowing them to skip to the most interesting parts of a video based on user-watching data and AI predictions. Read more
  
• Pinterest has published a new Gen Z trends report highlighting the key elements of interest among younger users in the app. Read more
  

New on Meta 

• Meta has expanded its Broadcast Channels feature to Facebook Pages with over 10,000 followers, allowing these Pages to create channels on both Facebook and Messenger. Read more
  
• Instagram now allows users to add music to carousel posts that include video clips, enhancing engagement with music across mixed-media posts. Read more
• In a new interview, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri shared insights on factors influencing post reach, emphasizing the importance of video and post sharing. Watch interview
• Instagram is testing a “Creator Insights” feature that lets brands view a 30-day performance summary on creators’ profiles, including follower growth, reach, and engagement. Read more

New on TikTok 

• TikTok has launched two new support programs for retailers: a training initiative for women-owned businesses and a scholarship program for LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Read more
  
• TikTok has released Whee, a new app for sharing photos exclusively with friends, aiming to create a more private experience among close contacts. Read more
• TikTok's new “Out of Phone: Branded Mission” lets brands use UGC or TikTok creator content for off-platform promotions like billboards and in-store displays. Read more
• TikTok’s new “Symphony” platform will allow businesses to create virtual influencers that sell their products for them in the app. Read more
• TikTok has introduced image search in TikTok Shop, allowing users to find similar products through visual examples, aiming to boost its in-app shopping experience. Read more
  

New on X

• X has launched advanced profile analytics exclusively for Premium subscribers, offering detailed performance metrics like impressions, engagement rate, and video performance behind a paywall. Read more
• X has made Likes private across the platform, aiming to foster more diverse interactions and protect user privacy. Read more

New on other platforms

• LinkedIn has introduced Premium Company Pages, offering SMBs enhanced tools like custom CTAs, auto-invitations for leads, and visitor insights to optimize business presence and engagement on the platform. Read more
• LinkedIn has launched "The Wire," a new video sponsorship program for in-stream ads with trusted publishers, capitalizing on rising digital video consumption. It also enhanced ad capabilities with AI tools like Microsoft Designer for automated creative options. Read more
  
• Pinterest enhanced board sharing with customizable templates, making it easier for users to promote curated Pin collections across social platforms. Read more

New on Meta 

• Meta has updated its "Made with AI" labels to "AI Info", aiming to reduce confusion over  AI use in posts. This change responds to user concerns over being tagged for minor digital edits. Read more
  

• Meta is expanding its AI chatbot to seven new regions and languages, adding new creative functions and model choices despite facing regulatory hurdles in Europe. Read more
• Meta has introduced a feature that automatically detects and incorporates offers from advertisers' websites into their ads, enhancing promotional visibility and control. Read more
• Instagram has released a guide with tips for maximizing live streams, including scheduling broadcasts, engaging with viewers, and using additional features like filters and co-hosts. Read more

New on TikTok 

• TikTok has introduced the App Center to help advertisers and businesses find third-party tools for improving their presence and performance on the platform. Read more
• TikTok now lets creators download videos without its watermark only if they first upload the clip to TikTok. Read more
• TikTok has released a new marketing playbook for SMBs, offering guidance on using TikTok's ad tools, creative video tips, and content strategy ideas. Read more
• TikTok has introduced restrictions on personalized ads for teens, enhanced user data controls, and new AI disclosure requirements for advertisers to improve transparency and data protection. Read more
  

New on X

• X has launched "Trend Genius" ads, an AI-driven tool that automatically deploys ads aligned with trending topics and conversation peaks on the platform. Read more
• X is advancing its test of a new "downvote" button for post replies, using a broken heart icon to allow users to downvote unwanted comments, aiming to improve content quality and engagement. Read more

New on other platforms

• YouTube has enhanced its takedown process for AI deepfakes, now allowing users to submit requests through privacy channels, aiming to address misuse of AI tools. Read more
• LinkedIn has made its AI-driven "Accelerate" campaigns available to all brands, automating campaign creation and optimization to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Read more
• LinkedIn has introduced sponsored newsletters, allowing brands to boost their newsletters for greater reach and lead generation, following the success of its sponsored articles. Read more

New on Meta 

• Meta is enhancing its ad attribution and targeting by introducing features like "Conversion Value Rules" and an opt-in setting for incremental conversions, along with integrating CRM data for improved performance measurement. Read more
• Universal Music Group has expanded its licensing deal with Meta, allowing broader use of its music across Meta's platforms and introducing new regulations for unauthorized AI-generated content. Read more
• Instagram is testing a new vertical grid display for user profiles, replacing the traditional square thumbnails with longer images that align better with video content. Read more
  
• Instagram now allows users to tag Channels when uploading posts, enhancing engagement and content visibility within Channel streams. Read more
• Instagram is testing new flippable profile cards for creators, featuring a QR code for easy connections and a profile overview to showcase content. Read more

New on TikTok 

• TikTok is introducing stickers and group chats in DMs, allowing up to 32 participants per group and enabling users to create and share custom stickers. Read more
• TikTok has teamed up with Amazon to enable in-app purchases. Users can now buy products directly from Amazon ads on TikTok without leaving the app. Read more
  

New on X 

• X has introduced enhanced analytics for X Premium users, featuring new insights on audience demographics, activity times, and updated chart formats. Read more
• X Premium+ subscribers will now enjoy a completely ad-free experience on X, including previously ad-filled areas like post replies and profiles. Read more
• X is moving out of its San Francisco headquarters, with employees transitioning to new locations in San Jose and Palo Alto. Read more

New on other platforms

• Pinterest reveals the leading trends for autumn 2024, showcasing fresh ideas in fashion, beauty, home décor, food, and hobbies. Read more
  
• YouTube now allows all channels to generate QR codes, offering an easy way to promote content and attract subscribers through simple scans. Read more
• LinkedIn is introducing verification badges for company pages to enhance trust, with a gray tick indicating that a page has passed LinkedIn's authenticity checks. Read more
• Snapchat has streamlined its Ads Manager by reducing campaign objectives from eleven to five, simplifying the setup process and integrating similar targeting options. Read more
  

New on Meta 

• Meta has launched new holiday ad features, including easier discount codes, enhanced reminder ads, and multi-page site links to boost engagement and shopping. Read more
• Meta’s new "Reels Performance Playbook" offers tips for optimizing Reels marketing with trends, storytelling, and formats to enhance holiday campaigns. Read more
• Meta has updated its Instagram Marketing API to offer full functionality for Reminder Ads, matching the features available in Meta Ads Manager. Read more
  
• Instagram has introduced comments on Stories to encourage more public interaction, although creators can disable this feature if desired. Read more

New on TikTok 

• TikTok has launched an updated version of its Search Ads campaigns, offering advertisers more control over ad placement by allowing them to select specific keywords for targeting, enhancing discovery and boosting conversions. Read more
• TikTok is inviting brands to be featured in its 2024 "Holiday Emporium Gift Guide" for increased exposure, but brands must spend between $12,500 and $19,500 on TikTok ads over the next three months to qualify. Read more
  
• TikTok is testing a new "Delete and Re-Edit" option that allows users to remove all edits made to their uploaded clips within the app. Read more
  

New on X 

• X is reducing its account-blocking functionality, removing the block button from various areas and allowing blocked users to see public posts. Read more
• X has launched the beta version of its new Connected TV app, X TV, designed to transform the platform into a video-first service, similar to YouTube TV. Read more

New on other platforms

• YouTube is expanding its generative AI assistant to all Premium members on Android in the U.S., enabling users to interact with videos through a chatbot that suggests questions and answers. Read more
• LinkedIn has introduced in-feed video carousels, enabling users to scroll through personalized video clips that link to a full-screen video feed to enhance engagement. Read more
  
• Pinterest has unveiled a new promotional campaign aimed at increasing ad partner awareness and highlighting its shopping discovery capabilities to drive engagement among younger users ahead of the holiday season. Read more
  

New on Meta 

• Instagram chief Adam Mosseri has recommended using carousel posts, now with up to 20 frames and music options, to boost reach and engagement. Read more
• Meta is testing facial recognition for security, including identifying celebrity image misuse in ads and using video selfies for account recovery, while emphasizing no data will be stored. Read more
• Meta's new AI tool, "Movie Gen," will enable users to create videos from text prompts or enhance real videos with fictional elements. Read more
  
• Instagram’s 2024 “Creators of Tomorrow” list features 25 emerging creators in five trend-setting categories, with plans to support their growth and showcase popular content strategies. Read more

New on TikTok 

• TikTok has introduced "Smart+" for automated ad targeting and "GMV Max" for optimizing TikTok Shop campaigns, aiming to streamline ad creation and boost ROI during the holiday season. Read more
• TikTok is enhancing its in-stream shopping with the "Fall Deals For You" promotion and live events to boost sales during the holiday season. Read more
  
• TikTok has partnered with InMarket to enhance in-store sales tracking for advertisers, allowing businesses to measure the impact of TikTok ads on physical store visits. Read more
  

New on X 

• Data suggests X could post a significant loss in 2024, with projected revenues of $2.9 billion offset by $1.2 billion in debt servicing costs. Read more
• X has launched a new analytics tool called "Radar" for Premium+ subscribers, enabling them to track keyword trends and conversation volume related to their businesses. Read more
  

New on other platforms

• LinkedIn is expanding its advertising capabilities by allowing DoubleVerify to verify the performance of its premium video ads, helping advertisers measure their campaign effectiveness. Read more
• Snapchat is testing Sponsored Snaps that send video ads to users' chat inboxes and Promoted Places to highlight businesses on the Snap Map. Read more
  
• Pinterest has introduced "Performance+," an AI-driven campaign automation tool that streamlines targeting, budgeting, and ad creation for advertisers. Read more
  
  
  
  

New on Meta 

• Meta has announced that Facebook will adopt "Views" as its primary metric, aligning with Instagram's earlier shift to simplify content measurement across platforms. Read more
• Instagram is removing the option to follow hashtags to reduce spam and irrelevant content in user feeds. Read more
• Instagram's chief Adam Mosseri clarified that the platform does not reduce the reach of posts marked as sponsored, dispelling the myth that it downranks such content to push brands to pay for more reach. Read more
• Instagram now allows boosting posts with most GIFs, stickers, and some copyrighted music, expanding options for promoting top-performing content. Read more
  

New on TikTok 

• TikTok is promoting holiday shopping with celebrity-led live streams, including Nicki Minaj, and major discounts in its "Brand Palooza" event, aiming to boost in-stream shopping. Read more
• TikTok has launched "Symphony Creative Studio", an AI-powered video-generation tool, allowing businesses to generate TikTok-style video clips from product descriptions or URLs, with customizable options like digital avatars and multilingual support. Read more

New on X 

• X is sharing a free version of its Grok AI chatbot for non-paying users, aiming to boost usage and attract more X Premium sign-ups. Read more

New on other platforms

• LinkedIn shared tips for using its new full-screen vertical video feed, recommending videos between 15-120 seconds, with relevant descriptions and prompts for sharing or commenting. Read more
  
• Pinterest has added new features for holiday shopping, including custom wishlists, celebrity-curated Gift Guides, and personalized gift recommendations based on user activity. Read more
• Snapchat is selling Snapchat+ gift cards in stores and online with Amazon, Walmart, and Target to boost subscriptions this holiday season, following last year's successful growth. Read more
• YouTube is testing "data stories," a tool that provides creators with visual insights into their video's first 24-hour performance. Additionally, a new "most relevant" comment filter will help creators prioritize meaningful interactions, enhancing engagement management. Read more
• YouTube is testing a new swipe-up gesture for full-length videos, allowing users to move to the next video, similar to the feature found in TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. Read more