Tag: Instagram

  • Instagram iPad App Leaks: Head Honcho Promises Search Fix

    Instagram iPad App Leaks: Head Honcho Promises Search Fix

    Key Takeaways

    1. Instagram aims to improve its search functionality and user experience.
    2. A new video editing app called Edits is being developed to compete with CapCut.
    3. The potential ban on TikTok and CapCut in the U.S. remains uncertain, influencing Instagram’s strategy.
    4. An Instagram app specifically designed for iPad is in the works, addressing the needs of iPad users.
    5. Instagram is focused on enhancing features and tools for social media influencers and managers.

    If you’ve ever used Instagram, you probably noticed that finding things on it is pretty awful, to say the least. Instagram is looking to fix this issue soon, and they also plan to introduce a new app for iPads and a video editing tool that might rival or even take the place of CapCut. This depends on how things unfold with the possible ban on TikTok and ByteDance.

    Competing with TikTok

    This isn’t the only move Instagram has in mind to stay in the race against TikTok and its parent, ByteDance. They’ve been developing a video editing app named Edits for a while now, aiming to go head-to-head with CapCut, which is owned by ByteDance. Currently, the app is in closed beta for both Android and iOS, and while there’s no exact launch date, it seems like it will come loaded with features such as a non-linear editor, captions, voice-over, audio editing, and some fun visual enhancements like filters, stickers, text, and overlays.

    The Uncertain Future

    As of now, it’s still unknown if ByteDance’s TikTok and CapCut will get banned in the United States. The ban was supposed to start in early April, but it has been delayed again. Until there is a final decision, Instagram appears to be gearing up to keep competing with ByteDance.

    New Developments for iPad Users

    In another big update, an Instagram app tailored for the iPad is currently in the works. Instagram has been around on iOS for almost 15 years, yet iPad users have had to make do with an enlarged version of the iPhone app. However, an Instagram employee has confirmed that the Meta-owned platform is creating an app specifically for iPadOS.

    While Android users have had a tablet interface for some time, iPad users have been left out. The new iPad app will likely work alongside Edits, giving social media influencers and managers a better way to handle their accounts, boosted by the powerful hardware of devices like the Apple iPad Air M3 (currently priced at $549 on Amazon).

    Stay Tuned

    In conclusion, with all these developments, it’s clear that Instagram is taking significant steps to enhance user experience and compete in the social media landscape.

    Source:
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  • Instagram DMs Get Boost: New Translation and Scheduling Features

    Instagram DMs Get Boost: New Translation and Scheduling Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Message Translation: Instagram now allows users to translate messages in DMs by long-pressing on a message and selecting Translate, making communication across languages easier.

    2. Music Stickers: Users can send a 30-second preview of their favorite songs in messages using the new music stickers feature available in the Stickers section.

    3. Scheduling Messages: Instagram introduces the ability to schedule messages for a specific time, helpful for sending timely messages like birthday wishes.

    4. Group Chat QR Codes: Each group chat will have a unique QR code for inviting new members, with group admins controlling access.

    5. Pinned Messages: Users can now pin specific messages in one-on-one or group chats, enhancing the organization of important conversations.

    Instagram is introducing several exciting updates to enhance its direct messaging service, including features like message translation, music stickers, and the option to schedule messages.

    Message Translation Feature

    While Facebook Messenger has had message translation since 2018, Instagram is just now integrating this feature into its DMs. It’s a bit surprising that Meta took this long to implement it—WhatsApp still lacks this capability—but at least it’s finally here. To translate messages in your Instagram chats, simply long-press on a message, whether sent or received, and select Translate. The translated text will show up right below the original message.

    Music Stickers and Scheduling Messages

    Another cool addition to DMs is music stickers. This feature allows you to send a snippet of your chosen song in your messages. You can find the new Music option in the Stickers section of your chat, where you can look for a song to share. Just remember that the sticker will only provide a 30-second preview of the track.

    Instagram is also adding the ability to schedule messages, a great tool for sending birthday wishes right at midnight. You can long-press the send button to set up a message for a specific time, choosing from various customization options.

    Group Chat Enhancements

    Group chats are seeing a minor but helpful update too. Each group will now have its own unique QR code that can be shared for inviting new members. Nevertheless, group admins will still control who joins since they can refresh the QR code at any moment to manage access.

    Finally, Instagram is building on last year’s feature that allows users to pin up to three chat threads in their DMs. Now, you can also pin specific messages in one-on-one or group chats, making it simpler to keep important conversations easily accessible.

    These updates have begun to roll out worldwide, so if you haven’t noticed them yet, they should be available to you shortly.

    Instagram DMs Get Boost: New Translation and Scheduling FeaturesInstagram DMs Get Boost: New Translation and Scheduling Features
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  • Instagram Launches Edits: A Creative CapCut Competitor

    Instagram Launches Edits: A Creative CapCut Competitor

    Instagram has introduced a fresh video editing application called Edits, aimed at content makers during uncertain times for TikTok. This announcement was made by Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, as TikTok deals with various issues, such as a temporary ban in the US on its CapCut app, showing weaknesses that competitors like Instagram are ready to take advantage of.

    Features of Edits for Creators

    Set to launch in March 2025, Edits offers a comprehensive range of creative tools designed to improve video production. The app includes a special tab for creative ideas and a section to keep track of inspirations. It has a high-quality camera that can shoot in FHD or 2K resolution at a maximum of 60 fps, along with sophisticated editing features like green screens, overlays, and AI effects. Unlike many competing apps, it does not place watermarks on finished videos, making it perfect for creators who wish to share content on various platforms.

    Integration with Instagram

    The app is designed to work smoothly with Instagram, providing creators with live feedback on metrics such as engagement, skip rates, and audience interests. This information allows creators to adjust their strategies for enhanced visibility and greater impact.

    Edits also incorporates AI features, including automatic captions that can be customized, voice enhancement to lessen background noise, and tools for animating images. Additionally, the app allows creators to collaborate by sharing video drafts with friends or partners, which boosts its functionality for teamwork and community involvement.

    Timing of the Launch

    The timing of the launch of Edits is significant. With TikTok undergoing regulatory challenges and CapCut’s brief suspension, Instagram is strategically positioned to attract creators looking for different tools for content creation.

    Furthermore, the app enhances Instagram’s current Reels feature, which has recently increased its video length limit to three minutes, providing creators with greater storytelling options.

    Edits is now available for pre-order on the iOS App Store, with an Android version anticipated shortly. As the competition in the short-form video arena heats up, Instagram’s new app could reinforce its status as a key platform for creators globally.

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  • WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates

    WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates

    WhatsApp is rolling out a thrilling new feature that lets users add music to their status updates. First noticed during the development of the 2.24.22.11 beta update, this feature is now being trialed with a larger group through the recent WhatsApp beta for Android version 2.25.2.5, which is available on the Google Play Beta Program.

    Music for Status Updates

    According to WABetaInfo, the “Music for Status Updates” feature introduces a music button in the status editor, giving users access to Meta’s vast library of tracks, similar to what is available on Instagram. This allows users to search for their favorite songs, trending hits, or particular artists and include them in their photo or video status updates, creating a more immersive experience.

    Simple and Intuitive Workflow

    Beta testers who have the feature report that the process is quite straightforward. After picking a song, users can opt for a 15-second clip for images or adjust the length depending on the video’s duration. Viewers are able to see the song title and artist displayed, along with an option to check out the artist’s Instagram profile right through WhatsApp.

    This fresh feature not only makes WhatsApp statuses more attractive but also connects functionality across Meta platforms, complementing features that are already favored on Instagram. While it’s currently available only to a select group of beta testers, WhatsApp is likely to gradually expand the feature to more users in the upcoming weeks. To give it a shot, make sure you’re on the latest beta version of WhatsApp.

    Exciting Developments on Instagram

    In related news, Instagram announced a new video editing app called Edits, set to launch in March 2025. This app comes with advanced features like AI effects, green screens, and the ability to export without watermarks, providing smooth integration with Instagram for real-time feedback. As TikTok faces regulatory issues, Edits seeks to lure creators and bolster Instagram’s position in the realm of short-form video content.

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    WhatsApp Introduces Music Feature for Status Updates
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  • Instagram to Allow AI-Modified Videos by Text Input Amid Criticism

    Instagram to Allow AI-Modified Videos by Text Input Amid Criticism

    Instagram’s CEO, Adam Mosseri, recently shared a video introducing new AI features named "Movie Gen" for its platform. The concept is straightforward: users can upload a video, turn on the "Movie Gen" filter, and briefly explain how they want the AI to modify the video.

    AI Transformations Previewed

    In the announcement video, viewers get a glimpse of the potential changes AI can make, like altering a person’s outfit or modifying the background environment. The goal is to allow users to tweak any part of their video in just seconds by inputting their desired changes. Although Mosseri hints at a launch for Movie Gen next year, he hasn’t provided exact dates or detailed insights about how this feature will function in its final version.

    User Reactions Mixed

    Despite Mosseri’s excitement about Movie Gen’s features, a significant number of Instagram users seem frustrated at the idea of dealing with even more AI-generated material. Many users expressed their desire for a feed free from AI influences and called for improved monetization for genuine, non-AI content. Critics are vocal about the platform’s push towards creating "fake videos" and lack of originality. The social media site also appears to have no intentions of labeling AI-generated content, as shown in Mosseri’s unofficial announcement video.

    Adam Mosseri (Instagram) | Claudio Schwarz (teaser image)

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  • Meta Uses AI to Predict Ages and Identify Teens on Instagram

    Meta Uses AI to Predict Ages and Identify Teens on Instagram

    A few months back, Meta said it would start looking for teenagers pretending to be adults in early 2025. This announcement came after the company launched Teen Accounts on Instagram in September.

    AI Tool for Identification

    According to a report by Bloomberg, Meta plans to implement an AI tool called an "adult classifier" to spot teens on Instagram. This tool will analyze users’ activity and their profile details to find potential teen accounts.

    Allison Hartnett, who is the director of product management for youth and social impact at Meta, shared with Bloomberg that the tool will categorize users into two groups – either over or under 18 years. The technology can review a person’s profile, their follower list, and the type of content they interact with to determine their age.

    Automatic Migration to Teen Accounts

    Users who are under 18 will automatically switch to teen accounts, no matter what age they list on their profile. Those who are 16 or 17 will have the ability to manage their privacy settings; however, users younger than 16 will need permission from a parent to make any changes.

    Meta is also making it more difficult for users to misrepresent their age on the platform. It will flag any suspicious actions, such as creating accounts with different birth dates but using the same email. Additionally, Meta can access a phone’s unique ID to understand who is behind the profile.

    Age Verification Process

    For teens wanting to alter their age on the platform, they will need to provide official identification. Options include a driver’s license or a video selfie that will be evaluated by a third-party service called Yoti. Meta assures users that their images will be deleted from their servers after the verification process.

    In conclusion, Instagram’s new measures aim to provide a safer environment for its younger users. By implementing these changes, Meta hopes to ensure that the platform is used responsibly.

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  • Meta Layoffs Impact WhatsApp and Instagram Teams

    Meta Layoffs Impact WhatsApp and Instagram Teams

    Although Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram (including its sibling Threads) are still widely used, Meta is still continuing with layoffs. This situation began in 2022, when at least 11,000 employees were let go. The reasoning back then was due to growth being much lower than anticipated as the pandemic came to an end. Mark Zuckerberg described 2023 as a "year of efficiency," and it concluded with another 10,000 job cuts. Recently, sources close to the situation disclosed that Meta is letting go of even more staff, although the exact number remains undisclosed.

    Changes in the Company

    Meta’s spokesperson, Dave Arnold, spoke with The Verge yesterday. He stated, "Today, a few teams at Meta are making changes to ensure resources are aligned with their long-term strategic goals and location strategy." He went on to mention that this new round of changes also involves relocating certain teams and adjusting the roles of some employees in addition to job reductions.

    Departments Affected

    While Arnold didn’t specify which departments are affected, earlier insiders indicated that WhatsApp, Instagram, and Reality Labs are likely being impacted. Jane Manchun Wong, who joined the Threads team last year and gained fame for reporting on undisclosed features in apps, was one of those who shared this news on her social media platforms.

    Recommended Read

    Even though Mark Zuckerberg’s biography by Daniel Ichbiah was released in June 2022 and doesn’t cover the last couple of years, it could still be an intriguing read for those interested in Meta and its leader. This 300-page book is available exclusively in Kindle format for $6.

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  • Android 15 Update Issues Affecting Instagram Performance

    Android 15 Update Issues Affecting Instagram Performance

    Google has started to roll out the Android 15 update for its Pixel smartphones. However, this newest version seems to be causing issues with certain apps, particularly Instagram. Users who have already tried the Android 15 update are reporting problems, so here’s a summary of what you should know.

    Problems with Instagram After the Update

    A user on Reddit pointed out that the Android 15 update may be causing difficulties for the Instagram app (Via PhoneArena). The user mentioned that the update is making it hard to use the app effectively. On the Redditor’s Pixel 9, “Iamnotindanger” reported that they couldn’t swipe through Stories. This isn’t just a one-off problem; another user, “TheNewtBeGaming,” experienced similar issues with key features of Instagram not responding properly.

    Issues with the Android 15 OS

    It appears that Instagram Stories are freezing, which is making swipe gestures unresponsive for many users. Several other Redditors have come forward sharing the same frustrations while using Instagram. For now, the best advice is to report these issues to Instagram directly. Also, check if your Instagram app is up to date, as older versions may not work well with the new Android release.

    Keeping Apps Updated

    Remember, it’s important to keep all your apps up to date on your smartphone. This helps avoid conflicts with newer software updates and sometimes includes vital security improvements. In other news, Motorola recently unveiled its official plan for the Android 15 rollout, but surprisingly, the list doesn’t include devices launched in 2024. Meanwhile, Vivo has announced its Android 15-based OriginOS 5 custom skin, along with a list of compatible devices. Additionally, a mockup of Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra was revealed last week, showcasing the future flagship running on the One UI 7 custom interface.

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  • Instagram Tests Unskippable Ads Called “Ad Breaks”

    Instagram Tests Unskippable Ads Called “Ad Breaks”

    Social media users were taken aback recently when Instagram announced it’s experimenting with unskippable ads within the app. Screenshots of this new feature, called “ad breaks,” have been making rounds online. These ad breaks feature a countdown timer, effectively halting users’ ability to scroll through their feed until the ad concludes.

    Value for Advertisers

    This approach by Instagram mirrors the ad strategy used by the free version of YouTube, which requires viewers to watch ads before and sometimes during videos. The shift seems logical for Instagram, given its transformation into a video-centric platform through features like Stories and Reels, diverging from its original photo-sharing focus.

    Though Instagram has not provided detailed information, a Meta spokesperson confirmed the tests to TechCrunch, mentioning that the company is investigating “formats that can drive value for advertisers.” They stressed that these are merely tests and any changes based on the results will be communicated.

    User Reactions

    The news was first revealed by Instagram user Dan Levy, who posted a screenshot encountering an unskippable ad. Levy criticized the move, calling it “bonkers.” Additional details were shared via a Reddit post, noting that clicking the ad break’s information icon displays a message explaining it as “a new way of seeing ads on Instagram,” and users might have to watch it before continuing to browse.

    Public Sentiment

    Unsurprisingly, the reactions have not been overwhelmingly positive. Levy’s post gained attention as it was re-shared by other social media accounts. While Instagram hasn’t specified the locations where the test is running or its global reach, screenshots indicate that the ad breaks appear within the in-app feed during video post viewing. It is also unclear whether content creators will have any say over these ad placements. The company might be aiming to increase ad revenue. For now, it remains a test, but it’s a development that frequent Instagram users should monitor.

    Instagram Tests Unskippable Ads Called

    (Via)

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  • Meta Unveils Enhanced Political Content Management on Instagram and Threads

    Meta Unveils Enhanced Political Content Management on Instagram and Threads

    Social media users are about to gain more control over their feeds on Instagram and Threads, thanks to Meta’s latest update. Adam Mosseri, the head of Instagram, shared that the intention behind these changes is to honor each user’s preference regarding political content. While some might seek it out, others prefer to steer clear, and Meta’s updates are specifically targeted towards respecting these varying interests. It is not only about filtering what appears in our feeds but also about offering users the choice to engage with political content on their terms.

    Users can still tweak their settings to view more of such content

    For those who still wish to stay informed about governmental, electoral, or societal issues, the option remains open. Users can tweak their settings to keep this door open, affecting only the content from public accounts in recommended sections like Explore and Reels. Importantly, this won’t affect the content from accounts one already follows, maintaining the personal touch of one’s social media feed.

    This initiative is part of Meta’s broader strategy

    This initiative is part of Meta’s broader strategy to distance its platforms from the contentious realms of news and politics. Considering the minimal political content in U.S. users’ feeds and the platforms’ stance on not promoting political content due to its limited engagement and potential for negativity, these updates are timely. As we edge closer to another presidential election, the balance between engagement and content quality becomes increasingly crucial.

    Implications for content creators

    Meta’s new policy also has implications for content creators, particularly those using their platforms professionally. The ability to check and contest recommendation eligibility through the Account Status feature provides a level of transparency and control, ensuring that creators understand how political content might affect their visibility.

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