Social media news: TikTok ban and Instagram updates shake up

The social media world is upside down! While TikTok was briefly shut down in the US, Instagram is focusing on innovation and is introducing several new features and changes that could challenge – and inspire – users and content creators alike.

Instagram: New look and features

Instagram has introduced a number of updates that affect both the look of the platform and the ways users can interact with it:

1. New image format in the profile grid

The classic 1:1 format for profile pictures and posts is a thing of the past. Instagram is now using a 3:4 format for previews in profiles. This means that

• preview images for reels and posts must be adjusted.
• should be switched to the 4:5 format, as the previous square format is no longer optimal.
• Designing a visually appealing profile will be more challenging because images are now cropped on the sides.

Instagram still offers the option of pinning up to three posts to the top of your feed. This is a great way to highlight important events or posts on your profile.

2. Dislike function for comments

Instagram is currently testing a dislike function for comments that allows users to flag inappropriate or disturbing comments with a “downvote”. Unlike a “like”, the dislike rating remains invisible to the public and serves to better moderate comments. Similar to platforms like Reddit, this feature is designed to help ensure that relevant content appears higher up. The feature is designed to help quickly identify problematic content and make the platform safer. However, there are concerns that the feature could be misused to devalue legitimate opinions or amplify negative comments. Instagram is monitoring user reactions and will continue to develop the feature based on feedback.

3. Competition for CapCut?

Meta is taking on CapCut head-on with its new app “Edits”. The app is said to include powerful AI features that could revolutionize video editing. While CapCut is valued above all for its user-friendly interface and AI functions, “Edits” could set a new benchmark by integrating Meta.ai. Social media professionals will be eager to see how strongly this app will impact the market.

TikTok in the US: between shutdown and return

In the US, TikTok continues to cause political tension. After the platform was temporarily shut down due to security concerns, particularly with regard to the collection of user data, it is now accessible again. The US government had expressed concerns that TikTok, under Chinese control, could endanger national security.

However, shortly after the nationwide block, the platform is available again. TikTok emphasizes that it is doing everything it can to address concerns and is actively working on solutions to improve privacy. Nevertheless, the debate about the regulation of social media platforms in the country remains a hot topic.