Social media outlets and iOS developers are advancing the way we connect–quickly. Users’ needs and preferences change with the technology and developers need to update with them. From Facebook altering its ads to Snapchat no longer requiring you hold down your finger to view snaps, times are a-changing. It seems like only yesterday you were in my extended network.
1. Facebook just upped the ante against YouTube’s video ads
by @jillianiles for @SAI
Facebook is introducing a new platform for video ads, giving marketers a choice which would make them pay for a video ad only if the it plays on someone’s feed for at least ten seconds. Prior to this, Facebook charged on cost-per-view basis, and a video that played for a minimum of 3 seconds was considered a “view.”
The downside to this was that marketers had no way of knowing whether these views were users scrolling mindlessly past a video for 3 seconds without actually watching. While YouTube still offers more ad options, like unskippable ads, Facebook’s new 10-second viewing option opens the door to more video ad options and flexibility.
2. How Long Should Brands Keep Their Rainbow Logos?
by @BelindaLanks via @WIRED
After last Friday’s monumental Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage in all 50 states, social media channels were flooded with users showing support by coloring their profile pictures with a Rainbow Flag filter; even brands and organization profiles joined the movement. But how long should the profiles of brands and public figures keep their rainbow profile pic? The visual trend surely loses effectiveness now that almost a week has passed, and unless these brands or big names are furthering their support of the cause in a different way, like Tylenol’s #HowWeFamily campaign featuring families of same-sex couples, pro advice says take the rainbow flag down.
3. Snapchat’s big change: Just tap instead of holding down
by @karissabe via @mashable
Long-time Snapchat users rejoice as viewing Snaps and Stories no longer require tired thumbs. Snapchat’s new update includes a “tap to view” feature, meaning users don’t need to hold their thumb down for fear of losing a message forever. The app update will also feature an “Add Nearby” option as an easier way for groups of friends to find each other, instead of exchanging usernames. Finally, new personalized Snapcodes take five rapid-fire selfies, which are then animated like a GIF in the blue ghost icon.
4. 19 of the best iOS apps from June
by @TheNextWoods via @TheNextWeb
Mobile technology has come a long way, and increasingly so in the past few months. From a QVC-esque shopping app which showcases products under $100 in 30-second videos, to an app that curates photos and mails them to you bound in a physical book, the “iPhone Generation” has more easy shopping options than ever. And there’s no doubt they’re also excited about updates to their favorite apps, including a refined Search and Discover feature for Instagram, a new breed of Emojis, and integration of familiar gestures (from interfaces like Tinder and Snapchat) into other apps.
5. Twitter testing new ways to make it easier to discover products and places
by @amaryllisfox via @Twitter
Twitter joins the movement to integrate buyable posting options, leading users right to their favorite products and pages with just one touch. Its new update for mobile and web will include Product Pages, which will display information about a product and a feed of relevant tweets.
The update will also feature Product and Place Collections, lists of favorite products and pages curated by influential people and brands. These lists can be searched for by product (on iOS) or can be found through the profile of their curators, making it easier to find interesting lists based on who you follow.
Metter Media LLC is a Boston-based social media management company that implements community-based, localized social engagement strategies for small businesses and corporations alike. Need help with your social media? Email Lauren today.
