Social Media Updates for January
January was packed with updates across all major social media platforms. From Instagram’s feature rollouts to TikTok’s scheduling enhancements and LinkedIn’s badge updates, there’s a lot to catch up on. Let’s break it all down.
Instagram Updates
Instagram was especially busy in January, rolling out multiple updates that could impact engagement, reach, and content creation.
Instagram Shares a List of What May Be Hurting Your Reach
Instagram released official insights into factors that might be reducing post reach. While shadowbanning rumors continue, Instagram suggests that engagement, consistency, and quality content remain key. If your reach is dropping, it might be time to audit your content strategy.
Instagram’s New Editing App
Instagram is developing a standalone editing app, aimed at providing more advanced editing tools for creators. While details are scarce, expect an emphasis on reels, photo enhancements, and AI-powered adjustments.
Instagram’s New 4:5 Layout
The platform has shifted towards a new 4:5 aspect ratio for posts, aiming to enhance mobile viewing experiences. This could mean adjustments for photographers and brands that previously relied on square posts.
Instagram Surveys Users About Paying for Engagement
Some users have reported seeing surveys asking if they’d pay for increased engagement, such as likes or comments. While this is just an experiment for now, it raises questions about Instagram’s future monetization strategies.
New Instagram View-Related Metrics
Instagram has introduced additional analytics for reel views, including watch duration and engagement breakdowns. These insights will help creators and businesses refine their content strategies.
Instagram DM Translation Feature
Instagram now allows users to translate direct messages instantly, breaking language barriers and improving global communication.
US-Based Instagram Users Can Post Longer Reels
Reels continue to be a major focus, with users in the U.S. now able to post extended-length reels. This change aligns Instagram with TikTok’s long-form content expansion.
Meta Updates
Meta, Instagram’s parent company, also rolled out some noteworthy updates.
Meta Moves to a Community Notes Model
Meta is experimenting with a new fact-checking approach similar to X’s Community Notes. This crowdsourced system aims to improve content credibility.
Meta AI Expands Memory Capabilities
Meta’s AI will now have more “memory,” allowing it to provide more personalized and contextual interactions over time.
Threads Updates
Threads continues its steady growth with new ad opportunities and image tagging enhancements.
Threads Begins Testing Ads
Monetization efforts are ramping up as Threads starts experimenting with ad placements. This could provide opportunities for brands to tap into a fresh audience.
Threads Rolls Out Image Tagging
Users can now tag others in photos, a long-awaited feature that improves engagement and social interactions on the platform.
TikTok Updates
TikTok made headlines in January with scheduling updates, technical difficulties, and political scrutiny.
TikTok Adds Post Scheduling to TikTok Studio
Creators can now schedule posts directly within TikTok Studio, making content planning and management more seamless.
TikTok Went Dark for 14 Hours
A major outage left TikTok inaccessible for nearly 14 hours, frustrating users and brands alike. The cause remains unclear, but it sparked conversations about platform reliability.
TikTok Gets a 75-Day Extension
TikTok’s ongoing regulatory battle in the U.S. resulted in a 75-day extension for compliance with government demands. This keeps its future uncertain.
TikTok Launches a 2025 Marketing Calendar
To assist marketers with content planning, TikTok unveiled a detailed 2025 marketing calendar, highlighting key dates and trends to leverage.
LinkedIn Updates
LinkedIn continues refining its professional community features with updated badge requirements.
LinkedIn Releases Updated Top Voice Badge Requirements
The platform has revised its criteria for the Top Voice badge, making it more exclusive and rewarding those who contribute high-value insights regularly.
January was an eventful month for social media. Whether you’re a creator, marketer, or casual user, staying on top of these updates is essential for maximizing engagement and strategy. Which update do you find most impactful? Let us know in the comments!
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