It's been a busy fortnight in the social media world! Here's a rundown of the biggest updates you might have missed:

X (formerly Twitter) Updates:

• Algorithm Adjustment: X is tweaking its algorithm to favour content deemed entertaining or informative, potentially reducing the visibility of political discussions. 

• Creator Payment Model: Creators will now be paid based on their overall contribution to the platform, rather than solely on ad views. This change coincides with an increase in the subscription price for X Premium+. 

• Dedicated Video Section: A new, dedicated video tab has been launched, making it easier for users to discover and watch video content.

Threads Updates:

• Personalised Display Names: Users now have the ability to customise their display names as they wish. 

• Profile Cover Image Testing: Threads is currently trialling the introduction of cover images for user profiles, similar to the functionality on Facebook and X, to enhance their visual appeal. 

• Option to Hide Instagram Link: Users can now choose to conceal the Threads badge that is displayed on their Instagram profiles. 

TikTok Updates:

• AI-Powered Features:

  • AI can now assist in creating group photographs from individual user uploads (AI Group Shot). 

  • Users can create more personalised avatars using artificial intelligence (AI Self). 

  • AI is now offering suggestions for captions, aiming to streamline content creation for users. 

  • An AI-powered tool has been introduced to assist with the creation of memes. 

Instagram Updates:

• Increased Reel Length Limit: The maximum duration for Reels has been extended to 3 minutes, providing creators with greater creative flexibility.

• Vertical Thumbnail Grid Layout: The profile grid now displays thumbnails in a vertical arrangement, offering a cleaner and more contemporary visual style. 

• Enhanced WhatsApp Integration: Users can now link their WhatsApp profiles directly to their Instagram Accounts Centre.

• Availability of Threads Analytics: Mobile users can now access data and insights on the performance of their Threads posts.

Bluesky Social Updates:

• Introduction of Trending Topics: Bluesky has introduced a trending topics feature, mirroring those on X and Threads, to help users discover popular conversations. 

• Significant User Base Expansion: The platform has now surpassed 25 million users, indicating substantial growth within the decentralised social media space. 

General Social Media Trends:

• Growing Integration of AI: Artificial intelligence is being increasingly incorporated into various features across a wide range of social media platforms. 

• Continued Emphasis on Video Content: Platforms are continuing to prioritise video content, with the introduction of new features and formats to support it. 

• Increased Support for Creators: Platforms are implementing updates aimed at better supporting content creators, including revenue sharing models and new creative tools. 

Important Note: The social media landscape is subject to rapid change. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the official news sources and announcements from each platform directly.