It’s been another busy fortnight in the social media world! Here’s the run down of the biggest updates you might have missed:

X (formerly Twitter) Updates

• Community Notes Expansion: X’s fact-checking style feature is being rolled out more widely, with alerts now sent to users who have interacted with posts that are later corrected.

• Algorithm Testing: Reports suggest further tweaks are in trial to reduce the dominance of political posts in For You feeds, shifting focus back toward entertainment and real-time events.

TikTok Updates

• New Community Guidelines: From 13 September, stricter rules apply for branded and commercial content, requiring clearer disclosures and more accountability during livestreams.

• Trust & Safety Cuts: TikTok is reducing hundreds of moderator roles across the UK, South Asia and Southeast Asia, increasing reliance on automation and AI for content moderation.

• Messaging Features: TikTok has introduced audio messaging and the ability to send audio or video attachments in DMs.

Instagram Updates

• Hashtag Reach Reduced: Instagram confirmed hashtags no longer drive reach in the way they once did. Keywords, alt text, location tags and engagement now carry more weight.

• Multi-Part Reel Linking: Creators can now link together Reels in a sequence, making it easier for followers to watch part 1, 2 and beyond in order.

• Profile Sharing Shift: Instagram is pushing users to share more via private messages and close circles, reflecting a broader trend across platforms.

Threads Updates

• Analytics Enhancements: Threads is gradually rolling out more detailed post analytics on mobile, building on its push for creator insights.

• Profile Features: Tests continue with expanded profile customisation, including cover images, as the platform experiments with new design elements.

Bluesky Social Updates

• User Growth: Bluesky continues its momentum and has now passed the 25 million user mark.

• Trending Topics Expansion: The new trending tab is getting broader visibility, helping users discover popular discussions and boosting community interaction.

Other Platforms

• Snapchat and Instagram Convergence: Both platforms are doubling down on private sharing, with Snapchat Maps and Instagram’s push to DMs showing how the focus is shifting away from public Stories toward more personal interactions.

The social media landscape is constantly evolving, so do keep an eye out for more updates!