Happy Friday! Welcome back to the Weekly Download. We’re gearing up for a weekend of beautiful weather here in the GTA, and what better way to kick things off than with another digital news roundup?
On the agenda today: Instagram tests in-app scheduling, TikTok unveils new ad tools and performance insights, YouTube provides more creators with access to shoppable links, and of course, some Friday Fun.
Instagram Is Testing In-App Scheduling
Instagram users have long relied upon third-party tools like Hootsuite, Sprout Social, or other platforms for content scheduling, but it looks like that may be about to change.
Confirmed by a Meta spokesperson this week, the social network is testing a way for users to schedule posts and Reels within the app.
A screenshot showing how it works (see below) is making the rounds on Twitter: Users with access to the feature can go to Advanced Settings while creating a new post or Reel and choose “Schedule this post” to select a date and time.
Now you can schedule posts on the Instagram app! ✨
You can schedule posts and reels by going to Advanced settings when creating new content. #Instagram @MattNavarra pic.twitter.com/yJykq108wK
— ㆅ (@howfxr) October 18, 2022
So, scheduling is coming… But when? Unfortunately, Meta’s keeping mum on those details for now.
Stay tuned!
TikTok Unveils New Ad Tools and Performance Insights
TikTok World, the short-form content platform’s second annual global product summit for brands, took place last week, and with it came a host of ad tips, insights, and previews of new promotional features for marketers, including:
- Showtimes: A new ad unit for movies and movie theatres will allow users to watch previews, search for showtimes, and purchase tickets, all within the app.
- Focused view: This new ad objective will charge marketers based on user attention and engagement, charging brands for ads only when users have watched at least six seconds or engaged with six seconds of their paid content (whichever comes first).
- Customizable lead-gen forms for ads: While lead-gen forms aren’t a new feature for advertisers on TikTok, new elements will allow marketers to customize them even further.
- Creator Marketplace: For brands looking to connect directly with TikTok creators, the Creator Marketplace is getting an overhaul, to feature improved search capabilities, integration of data from previous brand/creator partnerships, and more. Brands will also be able to post details of upcoming campaigns and give creators a chance to proactively apply for partnerships.
YouTube Provides More Creators with Access to Shoppable Links
Live-stream commerce hasn’t quite taken off in the Western world, but with lots of potential in the live-stream commerce sector (valued at a cool $180 billion in China), brands aren’t quite ready to give up.
As shared by Social Media Today, YouTube is expanding its Partner Program to help boost adoption of in-stream shopping. By year’s end, creators with more than 20,000 subscribers will be able to tag their videos, Shorts, and live streams with shoppable links to make it easier for viewers to shop while they watch.
As a complement to its in-stream shopping program, YouTube is also running a live shopping broadcast on November 10, featuring products and presentations from brands like Ulta Beauty, Tula Skincare, and more.
Will you be tuning in?
Friday Fun
In honour of his birthday (yesterday!), here’s a clip that’s been making the rounds of Snoop Dogg playing Celebrity Wheel of Fortune. You’re welcome!
