Keeping up with social media’s rapid changes can feel like a full-time job, but we’ve gathered the latest updates from September so you don’t have to. From TikTok’s “Thoughts” feature to a new app filled with AI bot followers, here’s the latest social media news.
TikTok has rolled out a new feature that looks suspiciously like Instagram’s Notes. Dubbed “Thoughts,” this feature lets users post short, text-based updates that show up in a speech bubble at the top of their inbox.
Given how well Instagram Notes has performed with younger users, it’s not surprising that TikTok is jumping on the bandwagon. TikTok’s version is still in testing, but considering how popular these short updates are on Instagram, it’s likely to catch on. It’s almost humorous to watch this ongoing race between the two apps, as they both continue to borrow features from each other, slowly becoming more alike with each update.
Threads is now giving users the option to upload up to 20 photos or videos in a single post, a move that mirrors Instagram’s recent carousel update. This isn’t a huge surprise, as Threads has been closely mimicking Instagram features to encourage cross-posting.
Post by @threadsView on Threads
Threads’ steady climb in app downloads — ranked 6th on iOS in August — suggests it’s gaining momentum. While X still dominates in terms of active users, Threads is making strides. Updates like these may help keep it relevant in the highly competitive microblogging space.
YouTube’s auto-dubbing tool, formally known as “Aloud,” is set to reach more creators and more languages, expanding beyond its initial rollout of English-to-Spanish and Portuguese. Creators will soon be able to dub their content into languages like French and Italian, making it easier to reach new audiences globally.
This AI-powered tool is part of YouTube’s broader strategy to help creators expand their reach. It’s a clear indication of the platform’s growing investment in AI to enhance the creator experience.
TikTok is testing a new “Delete and Re-Edit” option, which allows users to remove all edits made to an uploaded video and start fresh. While it won’t work on videos edited with third-party apps, like CapCut, it’s a handy tool for creators who make all their edits within TikTok.
At its “Made On YouTube” event, the video publishing platform introduced a range of AI-powered tools to help creators streamline their content creation process. The most notable of these is Google’s Veo tool, which allows creators to generate background elements for Shorts clips, adding a new layer of creative potential.
YouTube also introduced the “Hype” program, which allows fans the option to give “hype points” to emerging creators, boosting their visibility on the platform. These updates further demonstrate YouTube’s commitment to helping smaller creators gain traction.
Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void on social media? Enter SocialAI, a new app that’s populated entirely by AI bots ready to respond to your updates. These bots come with various personality traits—Debate Diva, Practical Patty, and Elena Bookworm are just a few—offering contextually relevant replies to whatever you post.
While interacting with AI bots might sound a bit dystopian, there’s something compelling about it. SocialAI could be a glimpse into the future of social media, where engagement might not always come from real people but from AI profiles that simulate human interaction. Whether this will catch on remains to be seen, but with AI playing an increasingly significant role in digital spaces, it’s an intriguing experiment.
Need expert guidance on the latest social media news and trends? You’re in the right place. Get in touch with us today!
