Welcome to the latest edition of Social Commotion, Motion’s roundup of social media updates and news. Check out our top social media updates from October 2024.
Big Changes to X’s Block Function Spark Controversy
X has begun notifying users about a significant update to its block feature, which has sparked widespread criticism and controversy across the platform.
Historically, X’s block function has allowed users to prohibit specific accounts from viewing and interacting with their posts, giving users control over who sees and engages with their content.
This week, X announced a major shift: Blocking a user will no longer prevent them from viewing the blocker’s posts—it will only stop them from interacting. Back in August, Elon Musk hinted at this change, saying, “Block is going to be deleted as a feature,” claiming it “makes no sense.”
Critics argue that the new block function compromises user safety and leaves them vulnerable to harassment, stalking and spam. Although blocked users won’t be able to engage, they can still screenshot, share and potentially harass users in public forums.
X defends the change as a push for “greater transparency,” suggesting it helps users see if someone who blocked them is spreading harmful or private information. This is one of several controversial changes Musk has implemented since purchasing the platform in 2022.
Head of Instagram Recommends Posting Carousels to Improve Reach
If you’re looking for a straightforward way to boost your Instagram reach, consider posting carousels. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, shared insights on why carousels are particularly effective for increasing engagement and reach.
“Why [do] carousels often get more reach than photos? Two main reasons. One, multiple pieces of media are going to mean more interactions with your carousel posts, and more interactions is going to mean more reach on average.” he says. “And two, if someone sees your carousel post but they don’t swipe, we’ll often give that carousel a second chance and automatically move to that second piece of media for the viewer.” Carousels can now feature up to 20 frames and include music. With the ability to include more frames, carousels naturally offer more opportunities for audience interaction. This increased engagement can lead to a greater overall reach, which makes carousels an essential tool for those looking to connect with their followers effectively.
Carousels that feature music are also now eligible to appear in the Reels tab, which opens up even more avenues for visibility. Many Instagram marketers are already leveraging this feature to enhance their brand’s presence on the platform. Instagram has also added text overlays and the ability to mix different image formats within a single carousel, further expanding your creative options.
Meta Continues to Go All-In on Video with AI and Creators
After Advertising Week, Meta’s continued is evident in the company’s new tools and features. Meta highlighted that 60% of user time on Facebook and Instagram is spent viewing video content and solidified its commitment to providing advertisers with the tools to capitalize on this trend.
Some of the key announcements from Advertising Week include:
- Video expansion and AI-generated video: Meta’s new Video Expansion tool, similar to its Image Expansion tool, enables advertisers to expand the aspect ratio of video content and maximize screen real estate. Additionally, the ability to create video content from static images using generative AI offers a unique and efficient way to produce visually appealing ads.
- Creator content integration: The integration of creator content into collection ads on Reels and other surfaces provides brands with a powerful way to leverage the authenticity and influence of creators to reach their target audience.
- Full-screen video on Reels: The introduction of a full-screen video tab for Reels on Facebook expands the range of ad formats available, including standalone video, carousel ads, in-stream ads and overlay ads.
Meta’s latest announcements demonstrate its commitment to providing advertisers with the tools and resources needed to succeed in the evolving social media landscape. And it believes that by leveraging AI, fostering community and offering a diverse range of ad formats, Meta is positioning itself as a leading platform for brands seeking to reach and engage their target audience.
Stay up to date on the latest in social media with Social Commotion, The Motion Agency’s monthly roundup of social media updates, or contact us today to help your brand navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media.