It’s Friday the 13th, and your social media luck may just be running out! Twitter is deleting locked accounts and causing you to lose followers… Facebook is plotting to take over your feed with yet more advertising… and Instagram is introducing interrogation torture with it’s new question sticker. The positive is that Friday the 13th is just one day, and your luck will change, just as the magical world of social media is ever-changing! However, our “goal” is to lift your spirits and not bring you down. And speaking of goals, don’t miss our tribute to the FIFA World Cup in our kick (we mean pick) of the week! That’s enough small talk – here’s what went down this week in the world of social media:
1. Facebook is Testing Augmented Reality Ads in the News Feed
by @anthonyha via @techcrunch
Facebook may start to look a lot more like Snapchat with new augmented reality (AR) ads in its news feed. These new ads are a fun and interactive way for brands to reach their consumers. Currently, select brands are experimenting with augmented reality by testing ads that allow users to try on accessories, insert their faces into mobile games, and more. Sounds a lot like Snapchat’s AR filters…
2. Snapchat Debuts a Library of Selfie Filters
by @lucasmtny via @techcrunch
Ready, set, #selfie! Snapchat is expanding its selfie filters with a new section titled “Lens Explorer.” Instead of solely having access to the limited count of selfie filters on Snapchat’s main camera screen, you will now be able to dive in and explore hundreds of lens filters created and sourced by Snapchatters from all over the world! The filter hub will be rolling out to iOS users in the very near future.
3. How to use Instagram’s New Questions Feature
by @emily via @lifehacker
Earlier this week, Instagram unleashed a new feature to spice up users’ stories. The new accessory is called “Questions,” and it allows Instagram users to interview one another with open ended questions to take the concept of social engagement to the next level. You may already have experience with this new feature as its popularity has skyrocketed since its launch, or you may be totally confused as many of us are. If you fall into the latter category, then read this step-by-step guide to get educated on how to use this new feature so you can post a question of your own!
4. Snapchat Releases Latest Update of Trending Topics on the Platform
by @adhutchinson via @socialmedia2day
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Snapchat has released the second version of their monthly report called “Snap Chatter,” which puts the spotlight on the biggest trending topics of the month among Snapchat users. From celebrities to slang words, Snap Chatter covers it all to keep you updated on what is trending in pop culture.
5. Twitter Starts Removing Locked Accounts From Your Follower Count
by @ahhensel via @venturebeat
Heads up Twitter users — you may notice a drop in your number of followers. No, it is not because everyone is tired of your tweets (or is it?), so do not stress! Instead, Twitter began deleting accounts this week that are locked and deemed as suspicious in an effort to reduce spam and prevent trolls. Luckily, most people will not notice much of a change in their number of followers; however, if you have a large following, this may be a different story. Nevertheless, Twitter is just trying to promote “healthy conversations” and delete “bot talk.”
MM’s Pick of the Week!
In early June, the FIFA World Cup kicked off in Russia and is nearing its conclusion with France and Croatia vying for the title and bragging rights on Sunday, July 15th at 11:00am EST. During the past month, football fans from across the globe have been bonding through the heat of intense matches on social media — especially Twitter. But instead of spewing hate and arguing, social media has brought the football community together and reminded them of their beloved passion for the sport through something everyone enjoys – MEMES:
#ItsComingHome
Memes of England’s Football team’s theme song, “Three Lions” have gone viral!
Harry Maguire Mansplaining
English footballer Kyle Walker created a meme of fellow team member Harry Maguire.
These are just a few examples of the many memes World Cup followers have bonded over throughout the past month. Social media is truly magical in how it creates and strengthens communities and reminds us of our passions. At least for most of us…
Just not this guy.
Source: Social Media Made the World Cup Fun Again | @engadget
Metter Media LLC is a Boston-based social media management company that implements community-based, localized social engagement strategies small businesses and corporations alike. Need help with your social media? Email Lauren today.
