Social media platforms evolve at a breathtaking pace, and we’re running right next to them for the latest news on all your favourite social channels. Fresh this week: Instagram adds more inclusive gender selection options, Snapchat tests a whole host of new features, and Twitter support puts down rumors of DM notifications.
1. Ahead of ‘shop’ button for publishers, Snapchat launches in-app store for Snap influencers
via @kerrymflynn @digiday
As part of a flurry of moves to drive eyeballs and revenue, Snapchat has added in-app stores for key influencers on its platform. The list is largely Kardashian-dominated currently, but we are already seeing influencer brands like Spencer Pratt and Shay Miitchell having access to this feature. Using this feature, influencers will be able to sell their own branded items direct to consumer, all within the app. Snap says it isn’t taking a percentage of the transactions at the moment, possibly to stay competitive with Instagram’s competing in-app store feature.
2. Snapchat is experimenting with an events feature of its own
Snapchat is taking a page from Facebook, allowing users to create events. Users can assign a time and place for the event and send invites to recipients to join a group chat for the event. While the feature to make public events doesn’t seem to be available, we bet that Snapchat will soon allow that!
3. Snapchat’s Testing a New ‘Multi-Snap’ Feature, Event Invites and New Sticker Options
By @adhutchinson via @socialmedia2day
Several new features have been spotted in Snapchat’s test mode recently, and it looks like we may be getting them all at once. This list of new features includes recording and posting a string of snaps at once, a new collection of Bitmoji stickers for story replies, and the option to create an event and send out invitations to friends. While many features appear similar to those from other social media apps, Snapchat always makes sure to add a unique element that asserts its position as an app focused on connecting users.
4. Assumptions related to Twitter notifications about Tweets sent via DM turn out to be fake
By Asqua Rasool via @digitaliworld
Twitter sends all sorts of notifications to its users, but one thing that it does not do is notify users when a tweet is sent via DM to them. There has been chatter this week that Twitter was about to put that feature out for all its users, but Twitter Support quickly put down those rumors, making it clear that there is no such update in the pipes.
4. Instagram is making its gender selection options more inclusive
by @michaelgrothaus via @fastcompany
Instagram users will soon be able to choose more specific gender options. The changes are expected to roll it out in the next week to coincide with Pride celebrations of the LGBTQ+ community. Instagram has been working to be more of a friendly social media platform for all.
MM’s Pick of the Week!
Keanu Reeves has been on fire recently. The John Wick movie, a surprise cameo on Netflix, and this moment at Microsoft’s E3 presentation is setting the Internet alight. He’s cool, even when he’s acting as a toy.
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.
