Welcome to another edition of the Weekly Buzz! Before you head out of the office for the last long weekend of the summer, join us for another digital marketing news update.
In this week’s edition, Google fights misleading advertisements, Meta introduces new Instagram features and tests to boost Threads uptake, and X, the platform previously known as Twitter, expands its data collection practices.
Let’s dive right in and explore the newest stories shaping the digital landscape.
Google Unveils ‘Limited Ads Serving’ Policy to Combat Misleading Advertising
Google is taking steps to counteract misleading advertisements by introducing the “Limited Ads Serving” policy. This initiative aims to bolster ad transparency and protect users from deceptive ads.
The policy mainly targets lesser-known or unfamiliar advertisers, particularly those with a higher potential for promoting scams or misrepresentation. By implementing the new protocol, Google will restrict the broader distribution of such ads across its platforms, reducing the risk of users encountering misleading content.
Under the new policy, advertisers with limited previous engagement with Google will undergo a probationary phase involving potential limitations on ad impressions. This approach will be initially employed for campaigns targeting specific brands, mainly when the advertiser’s affiliation with the brand is unclear.
Advertisers impacted by the policy will receive notifications and guidance to achieve qualifying status. Google will evaluate advertisers’ backgrounds by considering user feedback, adherence to advertising rules, and identity verification.
Google assures that the policy won’t prohibit ads but will only apply in specific situations where confusion between brand names is possible. According to the company, a phased rollout will ensure the policy’s effectiveness.
Instagram Tests New Feature Enabling Creators to Showcase Fan Comments in Stories
Instagram is currently experimenting with a feature that allows creators to spotlight noteworthy fan comments in their Stories, including comments on posts and Reels.
Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, announced the test to simplify the process of highlighting exciting comments, making it easier to enhance creator-fan interaction.
Creators involved in the trial can select and emphasize specific comments by swiping on them and using the “Add to story icon.” This addition enables the comment to appear alongside the original post in Stories.
When will the new feature be available to the public? We’ll have to wait and see.
In a previous update this month, the platform introduced the capability for creators to feature fan-generated Reels using the “Add Yours” sticker challenge, allowing creators to highlight up to 10 fan-made Reels related to a particular theme.
Meta Boosts Threads Engagement: Introduces Suggested Carousel on Instagram
In its continuous effort to enhance engagement on Threads, Meta is now experimenting with a new feature to reinvigorate user activity.
The social media giant is displaying a carousel of suggested Threads posts within the Instagram app to counter the wane in enthusiasm experienced after the initial launch surge.
See how Instagram has integrated Threads preview in Instagram itself. So much for getting people active on Threads 😅 pic.twitter.com/TkxcD6df8m
— Nikhil Wad (@niekhilwad) August 31, 2023
The “For you on Threads” carousel offers a direct link to open the Threads app on users’ phones. A Meta spokesperson confirmed this trial, emphasizing that the company is streamlining the visibility of Threads’ latest content on Instagram.
Other recent additions to boost Threads’ uptake include a “Send to Instagram DM” button for direct post sharing and introducing Threads online. Unfortunately, some highly sought-after features, such as post quoting, remain absent.
X Expands Data Collection Scope: Requests Consent for Biometric Data and Employment History
According to its updated privacy policy, X, formerly known as Twitter, is broadening its data collection practices.
The platform now seeks users’ consent to gather “biometric information” and “employment history,” aiming to employ such data for security and identification purposes.
Although specifics about the types of biometric data and collection methods remain undisclosed, this category usually involves fingerprints, iris patterns, and facial features.
X Corp. recently faced a class action lawsuit alleging violations of the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act due to its purported collection of biometric identifiers from photos uploaded to the platform. The policy revision hints at the potential use of biometric data for passwordless logins, supported by the forthcoming introduction of passkeys.
Alongside biometric data, X plans to collect information about users’ employment history, skills, preferences, and job search activity, likely in connection with related features that owner Elon Musk has alluded to.
The updated policy takes effect on September 29, 2023.
Friday Fun
We’re so here for this hilariously cute TikTok trend!
@jennaa0193 Replying to @Violet..2023 say less 😅 #fypシ ♬ original sound – Mikaela Bisson
