Social media updates – What happened in February 2020
Social media specialist Nick Munday rounds-up the latest news from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and Snapchat.
Facebook updates February 2020
Facebook implement bans on ads capitalising on coronavirus
With the world currently talking about the threat of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Facebook is taking action against advertisers attempting to profit from the outbreak. They’ve announced a ban on ads that create “a sense of urgency” around the virus or promise to cure it. [source]
Facebook adds new option to create 3D photos from 2D images
Facebook have added a new element to its 3D Photos option, which was launched at the end of 2018. The system is now able to simulate depth in any image, enabling you to convert any static picture into a 3D post.
“This system infers the 3D structure of any image, whether it is a new shot just taken on an Android or iOS device with a standard single camera, or a decades-old image recently uploaded to a phone or laptop,” they say. [source]
Facebook prohibit mobile app advertisers from using device-level data
Since January, mobile app advertisers are now unable to receive device-level (or view-through) data, and can now only measure campaign performance on an “aggregate and anonymous basis”. This means Facebook mobile app advertisers can no longer use device-level data to target or retarget ads; redirect with tags; sell to third-parties or inform cross-channel ad campaigns. [source]
Instagram update February 2020
Instagram looking to introduce IGTV Monetisation
Following Facebook’s lead, Instagram are adding monetisation options for IGTV. It’s currently in testing phase, and should prove to be popular for creators and brands once it’s officially rolled out. [source]
Twitter update February 2020
Twitter provide tips for writing more effective tweets
Their new initiative named ‘Good Copy, Bad Copy’ is designed to help businesses improve their tweet copy. Twitter creative lead Joe Waddington has outlined a set of simple tips:
- Don’t use all caps: The message can come across as aggressive
- Percentages work better than monetary amounts: Various studies have shown tweets which use percentages see more clicks than those with £ discounts
- Use fewer hashtags: This is especially relevant when driving clicks on a website link
- Website cards: These can be more effective than using plain URLs [source]
LinkedIn update February 2020
LinkedIn Stories coming soon
LinkedIn have confirmed they’re testing their own version of Stories internally, but there isn’t a timeline for a full rollout. The popularity of Stories has skyrocketed since its inception on Snapchat, while Instagram now leads the way in terms of usage.
“They spread for a good reason: they offer a lightweight, fun way to share an update without it having to be perfect or attached to your profile forever,” says Pete Davies. [source]
Snapchat update February 2020
Snapchat introduce ‘Swipe Up To Call’ ads in US
After the roll-out to the Middle East in December, Swipe Up to Call ads are now available in the States. These ads drive direct phone calls from the ad in-app, expanding on Snapchat’s existing ‘Swipe Up’ ad options. Advertisers can use Snap’s swipe-up prompts in ads to:
- Drive website visits
- Prompt extended video views
- Drive app installs
- Direct users to make a phone call [source]
Further social media reading:
