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Social Media News Roundup February 2024

Social Media News Roundup October 2023

Welcome back for another dose of social media news from Giraffe Social, headlines this month include X removing engagement counts, stickers on Instagram! Winning, and Meta rolling out a new mini-site detailing brand and user safety, let’s get started.

X is Considering Removing All Engagement Counts and Buttons on Posts

Social media giant X is considering removing all engagement counts and buttons on posts, with only “Views” to remain. Announced by Elon Musk, this move has been met with mixed reactions from users and advertisers alike, with some praising the potential to reduce the focus on vanity metrics and others expressing concerns about the potential for decreased engagement.

What does this mean for users?

If X does remove engagement counts and buttons, it will mean that users will no longer be able to see how many likes, shares, and comments a post has received without clicking on it. This could have a number of implications for user behaviour.

On the one hand, it could lead to more thoughtful and engaging interactions, as users will be less likely to simply like or share a post without actually reading it. On the other hand, it could also lead to decreased engagement overall, as users may be less likely to interact with posts if they can’t see how popular they are.

What does this mean for advertisers?

For advertisers, the removal of engagement counts and buttons could make it more difficult to measure the success of their campaigns. However, it could also lead to a more level playing field, as all advertisers would be on equal footing in terms of visibility.

Overall, the impact of the removal of engagement counts and buttons on X remains to be seen. However, it is clear that the move has the potential to significantly change the way that users and advertisers interact with the platform.

Instagram rolling out an option to create stickers from photos

Instagram is constantly adding new features to keep its users engaged, and its latest addition is a sticker feature that allows you to create stickers from objects within your images. This feature is similar to Apple’s photo cut-out option, but it’s more powerful and versatile, lets dive in.

To use the new sticker feature, simply open Instagram and take a photo or select an existing one from your library. Then, tap on the sticker icon in the top right corner of the screen. From there, you can select the “Create sticker” option.

Next, use your finger to trace around the object you want to turn into a sticker. Once you’re happy with your selection, tap on the “Done” button. Your sticker will then be added to your image.

Just like other Instagram elements this can be resized, or multiple stickers added to meet your needs.

Here are some of the things you can do with Instagram’s new sticker feature:

  • Create stickers from objects in your photos, such as people, animals, plants, and food.
  • Use stickers from public images.
  • Add stickers to your Instagram stories and posts.
  • Resize and reposition stickers.
  • Add multiple stickers to the same image.

The new sticker feature is a fun and creative way to add personality to your Instagram photos and stories and could also be a great way tool for promoting your brand or business.

Meta outlines its approach to brand and user safety with new mini-site

In other social media news, Meta has launched a new mini-site to outline its approach to brand and user safety. The site, called Media Responsibility, is based on four pillars: safety and expression, diversity, equity and inclusion, privacy and transparency, and sustainability.

Safety and expression

Meta is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all users. This includes protecting users from harmful content, such as hate speech, violence, and misinformation. Meta also works to promote freedom of expression, while respecting the rights of others.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Meta is committed to creating a platform that is inclusive of all users. This includes working to promote diversity and equity in its workforce and in the products it builds. Meta also works to combat discrimination and harassment on its platform.

Privacy and transparency

Meta is committed to protecting the privacy of its users. This includes giving users control over their data and being transparent about how Meta uses data. Meta also works to protect users from fraud and scams.

Sustainability

Meta is committed to operating its business in a sustainable way. This includes reducing its environmental impact and supporting sustainable development. Meta also works to promote responsible content creation and consumption on its platform.

The Media Responsibility mini-site provides more information about Meta’s approach to each of these pillars. It also includes case studies and examples of how Meta is working to make its platform safer and more inclusive for all users.

The launch of the Media Responsibility mini-site is a positive step forward for Meta. It shows that the company is committed to creating a safe and inclusive platform for its users. The mini-site is also a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Meta’s approach to brand and user safety.

Well that’s it for another month, thanks for tuning in to Giraffe Social, we really appreciate you taking time out of your day and spending it with us, if you want to dive a bit deeper into social media marketing, or are looking for some inspiration for your next social campaign, then check out our insights, designed to help you improve every aspect of your social media presence.