Instagram is testing a ‘no-likes’ count feature
The news:
Instagram is considering doing away with the ‘likes’ feature on its app. This means that other users will not be able to view the amount of likes you have received on a post.
The idea stems from the fact that the app was created for users to share content that they enjoy and not be fixated on how many likes the post will generate.
Why it’s making headlines: For the most part, Instagram users are relieved to hear that the pressure to climb the social media hierarchy will be turned down. Online content creators use this platform to share their work, and it is an act of self-expression.
A double-tap can make or break a content creator’s confidence, and that is what Instagram founders are trying to reduce.
Image sourced from Twitter
On the other hand, this new feature could change the way influencers market themselves, as they rely heavily on the number of likes their content receives.
Influencers will need to consider how this will affect their opportunities to partner with brands. As for brands, they’ll have to explore and use alternative metrics to determine an influencer’s popularity with the ‘no-likes’ feature.
WhatsApp takes privacy settings up a notch
The news: WhatsApp intends on making the platform a ‘safer place’ for all its users by placing an emphasis on protecting phone numbers.
The new invite system will allow you to accept or decline an invite to a new ‘group chat’.
You will also be able to view the information of the person who has the admin rights to that group. This way, you’ll be able to keep your number private and avoid gaining random contacts from the group.
WhatsApp already has the three-way options ‘My Contacts’, ‘Nobody’ and ‘Everybody’ for profile picture and status viewing, and now you will have the option of deciding who can add you to a group chat based on the same principle.
You’ll soon be able to decide who can add you to a group text with these three options: Nobody, My Contacts or Everybody. This feature will most likely be enabled as the default; however, if you want to double check, you can find whether it’s active or not under Settings>Account>Privacy section on your app.
Image sourced from TechCrunch
Why it’s making headlines: By implementing this feature, WhatsApp is hoping to curb cyber-bullying and the spread of fake news. WhatsApp has a more private reputation in comparison to other social media platforms and so, the move will likely be valued by its users.
LinkedIn launches ‘post reaction’
The news: LinkedIn is beginning to roll out
its very own version of ‘reactions’ to posts. These will include ‘insightful’, ‘celebrate’, ‘curious’, ‘love’ and ‘like’. LinkedIn recognises the need for expressive outlets social media users are in search of. By adding reactions, users can be more specific about the feelings a post evokes without having to add a lengthy comment.
Why it’s making headlines: Say hello to increased engagement on the professional platform, because it’s easy to respond to a post — even when you’re on the go. One can only assume that LinkedIn users are excited to learn the motivation behind the engagement with their post and reactions make provision for that.
This is an exciting move for the platform as it shifts towards the implementation of features that cater for younger users who have become accustomed to providing commentary in the form of a ‘click’ or ‘tap’.
Image sourced from Search Engine Journal
Do you think that the ‘no-likes’ feature on Instagram will affect brands and influencers negatively? Let us know in the comments section below.
With the ever-changing social media landscape, you should always be striving to remain relevant. Check out these Five rules for writing engaging social media posts.
*Image courtesy of Vecteezy