Tag Archives: Social Media

Instagram Revamps Notes with Prompts, Likes, and Mentions, Making it More Interactive

June 1, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Instagram is shaking things up with its Notes feature, aiming to transform it from a simple status update to a more interactive and engaging experience. This update, rolling out now to users worldwide, brings a wave of new features designed to spark conversations and boost user connection.

Instagram rolls out new updates for its Notes feature Prompts Likes and Mentions webp 92 — Source: Instagram

Gone are the days of one-way announcements on Notes. Now, users can leverage “Prompts” to initiate conversations and invite friends to share their thoughts. Imagine asking a question like “Favorite summer movie?” or “Beach day essentials?” and seeing your friends respond with their picks directly within the Notes section. This fosters a sense of community and encourages deeper interaction beyond likes and comments on traditional posts.

But the party doesn’t stop there. Notes now supports likes, allowing users to express their approval without leaving a full comment. This simple addition makes engagement on Notes quicker and easier, perfect for situations where a double-tap conveys all you need to say.

Furthermore, the introduction of “@ mentions” empowers users to directly tag their friends in Notes. This personal touch can be used to spark discussions, share inside jokes, or simply get someone’s attention about a specific topic.

With these new features, Instagram is clearly aiming to make Notes a more dynamic and engaging space. While it may not replace the dominance of Stories and posts, the revamped Notes offer a unique way for users to connect and share fleeting thoughts or ideas in a more interactive format. This caters especially to younger demographics who thrive on quick and casual communication.

It remains to be seen how widely adopted these changes will be, but one thing’s for sure: Instagram is actively evolving Notes to keep users engaged and foster a more interactive platform. So next time you have a quick thought to share, consider using Notes and see how the new features spark conversations with your friends.

Social Media

Instagram Steps Up Efforts to Combat Sextortion Among Teens

May 31, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Social media platforms have become an undeniable part of teenage life. While they offer opportunities for connection and self-expression, they also present unique safety challenges. One growing concern is the issue of sextortion, a form of blackmail that involves coercing someone into sending sexually explicit content.

Sextortion cases have been on the rise in recent years, with teenagers and young adults being particularly vulnerable. The combination of digital naivety and a desire for social validation can leave them susceptible to online predators. These predators may use various tactics, including flattery, manipulation, or threats, to pressure victims into sending explicit photos or videos.

Teen Limits Four Screen jpg 92 — Source: Instagram

Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, Instagram has been actively implementing features aimed at enhancing teen safety on the platform. The platform’s recent update focuses on empowering teens to control who can interact with them.

Limiting Interactions: Close Friends Only Mode

The new feature allows users to switch to a “Close Friends” only mode, effectively limiting direct messages (DMs) and comments to a pre-selected list of trusted individuals. This creates a safer space for teens to share and express themselves without fear of unwanted attention.

The update expands existing functionalities by allowing users to mute interactions with anyone who is not already on their Close Friends list. This empowers users to manage their experience and avoid unwanted messages or comments, even from accounts they follow.

Restrict Updates jpg 92 — Source: Instagram

These updates build upon Instagram’s previous efforts to create a safer environment for teens. The platform has implemented features to detect and remove abusive content, provide reporting tools, and offer educational resources on topics like online safety and healthy relationships.

While Instagram’s efforts are commendable, experts acknowledge the ongoing challenge of staying ahead of evolving online threats. Predators constantly adapt their tactics, and the platform requires a multi-pronged approach to ensure user safety.

Creating a truly safe online environment requires collaboration. Teens need to be aware of the risks associated with sextortion and how to protect themselves. This can be achieved through open communication with parents and responsible use of social media platforms.

Parents, on the other hand, can play a crucial role in educating their children about online predators and the importance of online privacy. They can also monitor their children’s online activity and encourage them to report any suspicious or abusive behaviour.

Finally, the responsibility lies with platforms like Instagram to invest in robust safety measures and continually develop features that empower users to control their online experience.

News, Social Media

TikTok Tests Long-Form Videos: A Challenge to YouTube’s Dominance?

May 17, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

The short-form video king, TikTok, is making waves with a bold experiment. The platform is currently testing the ability for users to upload videos up to 60 minutes long, a significant shift from its traditional bite-sized content format. This move has sparked speculation about TikTok’s potential ambitions to compete directly with YouTube, the established leader in long-form video streaming.

solen feyissa 1S1w1c4 VyA unsplash — Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

TikTok’s core identity has been built on its emphasis on short, engaging videos. The app’s initial focus was on 15-second clips, gradually expanding to 60 seconds and then 10 minutes in recent years. This latest test with 60-minute uploads marks a dramatic departure from the platform’s core format.

While some see this as a direct challenge to YouTube, the implications remain unclear. TikTok’s existing user base might not necessarily embrace hour-long content, and established YouTubers might not readily migrate to a new platform. However, the possibility of attracting new creators who prefer TikTok’s interface or community dynamics cannot be ignored.

Screencap of Post by Matt Navarra on Threads.net

The introduction of longer videos opens doors for a wider range of content formats on TikTok. Imagine educational tutorials, in-depth interviews, or even live-streamed events finding a home on the platform. This could potentially attract viewers seeking a different type of long-form content experience compared to what YouTube offers.

Whether TikTok’s foray into longer videos becomes a permanent feature or a fleeting experiment remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the landscape of video content is evolving. Users now have access to a diverse range of platforms, each catering to specific preferences for video length, format, and community engagement. This competition between platforms ultimately benefits users by driving innovation and offering a wider variety of content to choose from.

News, Social Media

Meta’s Next Billion User App, Threads, Brings More Features

October 30, 2023 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Meta’s latest social network and the bane of Elon Musk’s X is gearing up to become the company’s next billion user app. In the recent earnings call, Mark Zuckerberg revealed that Threads now has “just under” 100 million monthly active users. This number is very significant considering the app has yet to be released in the European Union.

julio lopez VUkBcsXUtFk unsplash1 — Photo by Julio Lopez on Unsplash

In the same call, Zuckerberg made Meta’s ambition for Threads very clear and that is to transform Threads into a “billion-person public conversations app” with a positive atmosphere.

New Features in the Wake of Ambition

To achieve those lofty ambitions, the team over at Instagram and Threads have been working to fold in even more features into the app. Let’s be honest, they’ve been on a roll! The team is now bringing even more engaging features such as a native GIF picker and polls.

You will now be able to host polls on Threads natively. Creating polls is straightforward. Users can add up to four poll choices for a 24-hour duration. Unfortunately, there’s no option to adjust the poll duration just yet. While polls are accessible on Threads for Android and iOS, the web version is yet to support this feature.

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Screenshot 2023 10 27 09 54 40 89 b86672daa061159f52c1a3195c773d05 jpg

Screenshot 2023 10 27 09 54 33 17 b86672daa061159f52c1a3195c773d05 jpg

Screenshot 2023 10 27 09 54 37 13 b86672daa061159f52c1a3195c773d05 jpg

Threads is also introducing an in-app GIF picker, powered by GIPHY. It’s available for both new posts and replies. Users can easily access a library of searchable GIFs by tapping the “GIF” button. This feature is available in the latest app updates for Android and iOS.

One drawback to note is that Threads, like Meta’s Messenger app and Instagram, still restricts Android keyboards, like Gboard, from inserting GIFs. When users attempt to insert a GIF using Gboard, they receive a message stating that Threads doesn’t support this functionality. While the app adds exciting features, this limitation might be frustrating for some.

News, Social Media

X (formerly Twitter) Unveils New Subscription Tiers: Here’s What You Need to Know

October 30, 2023 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

X, formerly known as Twitter, has introduced a series of changes in the past few months. The social network has introduced a paid tier that includes a verified badge and even changes policies when it comes to disinformation. However, in a move that’s been stirring up quite a buzz, X (formerly Twitter) has introduced fresh subscription tiers, catering to diverse user preferences and needs. Let’s dive into the details.

New Premium+ Tier at USD$16/month & Basic Tier at USD$3/month

It looks like Elon Musk’s X is taking monetization very seriously. The social media is introducing two new paid tiers for users. The first is a Premium+ tier. This USD$16 (RM76.20) monthly subscription not only removes ads from your timeline but also grants you a blue checkmark, offering that coveted mark of authenticity.

we’re also launching a new Basic tier for $3/month (when signing up via Web) that gives you access to the most essential Premium features
— Premium (@premium) October 27, 2023

Premium+ subscribers will also get an algorithmic boost, ensuring your tweets get more attention and replies. It’s essentially a premium experience, perfect for those who want a clutter-free and personalized journey through X.

On the other end of the spectrum, there’s the Basic tier, priced at just $3 (RM14.29) per month. This tier may not include the coveted blue checkmark, but it offers a plethora of other benefits.

Screenshot 2023 10 30 at 15 20 09 Home X — Source: X (Fromerly Twitter)

Screenshot 2023 10 30 at 15 20 28 Home X — Source: X (Fromerly Twitter)

Basic subscribers can rejoice in features like tweet editing, longer posts, and the ability to download videos. Additionally, you’ll receive a “small reply boost,” helping you engage more effectively with your audience. Plus, you’ll have encrypted direct messaging for added security.

Both Premium+ and Basic tiers are accessible via the web, avoiding fees associated with app stores. This ensures a seamless experience for users looking to enhance their X journey.

Elon Musk has grand ambitions for the platform. He wants to turn X into an “everything app,” directly challenging platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn. While the specifics of this transformation remain shrouded in mystery, X has been teasing new features like video streaming and job postings, hinting at the platform’s evolving nature.

Musk’s ambitions, however misguided they are, look to leverage Twitter’s social media user base to create an app for everything. There are plans to offer comprehensive communications and financial services, potentially replacing traditional bank accounts.

Monetization or Bot Prevention?

In a recent live-streamed conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Elon Musk disclosed a plan to charge a small fee to every X user. The main objective is to combat the proliferation of bots on the platform.

Musk emphasized that the cost of operating bots would become prohibitively high, making it challenging for individuals or organizations to sustain them. By requiring users to pay a fee with a unique payment method, X aims to eliminate fake accounts effectively.

While Musk didn’t specify the fee’s exact amount, he highlighted the necessity of this change to thwart the vast armies of bots. This strategic move ensures a cleaner and more authentic X experience for users.

As X transitions into a paid platform, the landscape of social media may undergo significant changes. While the exact implementation date remains uncertain, it’s evident that users may need to adjust to this new paradigm. X, with its 550 million users and 100 to 200 million daily posts, is poised for a transformation that may encourage users to explore alternatives.

News

Malaysia’s MCMC Contemplates Frameworks for Online Challenges

September 12, 2023 Thina Hareesh Leave a comment

In the ever-challenging digital landscape, Malaysia’s MCMC (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission) is pondering significant changes to address online issues and economic strain on local news media, drawing inspiration from international counterparts like Australia and Canada.

Curbing the spread of misinformation and cyber threats

With the exponential growth of the internet, Malaysia, like many nations, grapples with various online challenges. The MCMC met with representatives from Meta (formerly Facebook) and Google to discuss measures against child sexual abuse material, online gambling, scams promotion of prohibited substances, fake news and content inciting Race, Royalty and Religious (3R). Similar talks with TikTok have also been scheduled in the near future.

While digital platforms offer convenience and connectivity, they also bring about issues such as disinformation and data privacy concerns. Implementing frameworks that hold tech giants accountable can be a step in the right direction.

Fair compensation for media, inspired by Australia and Canada

Australia and Canada have recently taken steps to compel tech giants like Google and Meta to compensate local news outlets for using their content. Australia is using the world’s first Mandatory News Media Bargaining Code, which ensures fair compensation of media by Google and Meta for using their content. In Canada, the Bill C11 regulates streaming platforms and ensures these platforms support Canadian content.

Currently, there is an imbalance in income for traditional Advertising Expenditure (ADEX) between digital platforms and local media in Malaysia. The MCMC is now looking to adopt similar frameworks as Australia and Canada to address this imbalance. This move is significant because it acknowledges the importance of journalism in our digital age and aims to rectify the economic disparities within the media industry.

MCMC looks towards a fair and secure digital landscape in Malaysia

Should MCMC choose to follow in Australia and Canada’s footsteps, the repercussions for Malaysia’s digital landscape could be profound. Local news outlets may see a boost in revenue, ensuring the sustainability of quality journalism. As Malaysia navigates these uncharted waters, it’s crucial to strike a balance between protecting local media interests and promoting digital innovation.

Sources: TechNave, SoyaCincau

News, Social Media

Meet the New Clubhouse Where Social Messaging Meets Voice

September 7, 2023 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Clubhouse, once the talk of Silicon Valley and the darling of pandemic-era social media, is undergoing a transformation. Earlier this year, the company announced layoffs of half its staff as it embarked on creating “Clubhouse 2.0.” Now, the results of this shift are in, and it’s all about making Clubhouse more like a messaging app.

The shift means moving away from its iconic “drop-in” audio conversations to focus on voice chats centred around friends. Instead of large, open rooms for live-streamed discussions, the new Clubhouse encourages users to form groups with people they already know. These groups, somewhat perplexingly named “chats,” enable friends and friends-of-friends to exchange voice messages.

From Forum to Personable Chats

The key feature of this update is “Chats.” Think of Chats as voice-only group chats with your closest friends. They’re asynchronous, so you can drop in and participate at your convenience. It’s like a blend of group texts and Instagram Stories, except with voices.

Chats come with convenient features like push-to-talk, 2x listening speed, skip and swipe between chats, and the option to engage in private voice conversations. What sets them apart from group texting is speed and personalization. Chats are faster, allowing groups to share more, including nuances and off-the-record content, with automatic transcription and translation into your language.

Voice adds a personal touch that text can’t match. You can hear your friends’ emotions, and laughter, and even sense when they’re tired or excited. It’s about getting to know people on a deeper level.

Chats can be set to “friends only” or “friends-of-friends,” creating a cosy social atmosphere with shared context and accountability. No randoms, spammers, or follower seekers here.

Changing from Followers to Friends

Live audio isn’t going away; it remains a core part of Clubhouse. However, Chats offer a versatile tool for community builders, enabling new conversations without the need for extensive preparation or moderation. It’s all about depth over reach.

Clubhouse is also shifting from a “follow” model to a “friend” model. This change emphasizes the importance of real friendships over accumulating followers. Existing followers won’t lose their connections; they can create a House for their followers right from their profiles.

The motivation behind this pivot is clear. Clubhouse witnessed a significant drop in engagement as pandemic restrictions eased. Whether this new direction can bring back the buzz it enjoyed in 2021, when it attracted millions of users and a multi-billion-dollar valuation, remains uncertain. Clubhouse, seemingly aware of the challenges, concluded its announcement with a touch of caution, stating, “It’s a big bet, and we hope we’re right…”

Business, News, Social Media

Meta Contemplates Ad-Free Subscriptions for Facebook and Instagram in Europe

September 4, 2023 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Meta – Facebook and Instagram‘s parent company – is considering the possibility of offering paid versions of the social media platforms in Europe. This comes after the company’s tumultuous few months as the company continues to navigate the European Union’s stringent data privacy and online platform regulations.

dima solomin mr26tQgHGmc unsplash — Photo by Dima Solomin on Unsplash

The New York Times reports that Meta is considering subscription-based versions of both Facebook and Instagram. These versions would be free from advertisements. That said, the free, ad-supported versions of these platforms will still be available in the European Union.

So far, there is no word on the exact pricing and rollout timeline for these ad-free versions. Meta‘s motivation behind this potential offering is primarily to align with EU regulations rather than a clear revenue opportunity.

Meta’s Ongoing Struggle with EU Regulations

Meta has been grappling with the European Union over data privacy and advertising-related issues. The company faced a significant fine of $1.3 billion from Ireland’s Data Protection Commission for transferring European user data to the United States, violating GDPR regulations. In response, the United States and the EU established a data transfer agreement in July, easing some restrictions on social media platforms.

close up shot of app icons — Photo by Geri Tech on Pexels.com

To address EU concerns, Meta began allowing users in the region to opt out of targeted advertising. There were even discussions about shifting this feature to an opt-in model for all users in the EU.

Additionally, Meta postponed the release of its new social platform, Threads, in Europe due to regulatory concerns. The company appears to be apprehensive about the upcoming Digital Markets Act, which restricts the reuse of personal user data.

A Potential Pivot in Business Model

If Meta proceeds with ad-free paid versions of Facebook and Instagram in Europe, it would mark a notable departure from its traditional ad-supported model. While it remains uncertain how many users would embrace this paid option, industry insiders suggest that it could help appease European regulators and serve Meta’s interests in the region.

This move signifies a significant distinction between consumer technology in the European Union and the United States. Meta and other social media platforms are adapting to comply with GDPR and other regulations, demonstrating their accountability to governments rather than the reverse. As Meta navigates this evolving landscape, it could set an important precedent when it comes to the future of ad-free social media experiences.

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Tag Archives: Social Media

Tech Your Way

Limiting Interactions: Close Friends Only Mode

New Features in the Wake of Ambition

New Premium+ Tier at USD$16/month & Basic Tier at USD$3/month

On The Road to a Paid Social Media Platform & Super App

Monetization or Bot Prevention?

Curbing the spread of misinformation and cyber threats

Fair compensation for media, inspired by Australia and Canada

MCMC looks towards a fair and secure digital landscape in Malaysia

From Forum to Personable Chats

Changing from Followers to Friends

Meta’s Ongoing Struggle with EU Regulations

A Potential Pivot in Business Model

Tech Your Way