Spring has sprung, and so has the social media news, so let’s dive into the latest and greatest updates from March.
In a bold move to reclaim the attention of creators (especially as TikTok faces ongoing scrutiny), Instagram is stepping into the editing ring with its new app called Edits.
Edits is a tool designed for creators who want more video editing power in the palm of their hands. Think of it as a CapCut’s new competitor, but with Instagram’s stamp of approval.
Check out some of the features of Edits that we can’t wait to try:
🎥 Pro-Grade Video on Mobile
Record up to 10-minute clips with fine-tuned control over resolution, frame rate, and dynamic range.
✂️ Editing, Supercharged
From green screen effects to video overlays, single-frame edits, and even AI image animation, Edits goes far beyond Instagram’s in-app tools. Plus, loads of fonts, stickers, filters, and sound effects to layer on your style.
📊 Performance Insights, Unlocked
A live dashboard shows who is engaging (followers vs. non-followers), skip rates, and more—giving you the data to fine-tune future posts.
📲 Made to Share, Made for IG
Export in crisp 1080p and share directly to Instagram. (But don’t expect a boost in the feed just for using the app—Instagram clarified that’s not happening. Yet.)
Currently in pre-order on the iOS App Store (launching April 30), Edits is Instagram’s strongest signal yet that it’s ready to support creators beyond filters and feed posts. For the Android users out there, don’t worry. Edits is making it’s way to you next, and could become the go-to for Reels-ready content for all creators. We’re looking forward to getting our hands on it!
BuzzFeed is diving into the digital landscape with the launch of BuzzFeed Island, its very own platform designed to bring back the fun - and even ditch the fear - of social media. Created by CEO Jonah Peretti, this new venture is a direct response to the digital fatigue caused by doomscrolling and the SNARF-fueled (Stakes, Novelty, Anger, Retention, Fear) content that dominates our feeds.
BF Island is shaping up to be a joyful, AI-powered playground for creativity. Think Midjourney meets memes, where users can craft content that reflects their real interests, and not what an algorithm thinks will keep them push their buttons and stay online. Instead, BuzzFeed promises a shift from manipulation to inspiration, letting users explore social content that uplifts rather than creates fear.
Backed by a $10 million investment, BuzzFeed Island is currently in a private beta testing phase. When it launches, the platform will use a freemium model, offering basic access with paid upgrades for users.
Whether this new platform can disrupt other channels like Instagram and TikTok remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear. BuzzFeed isn’t just chasing clicks anymore; it’s building a whole new digital island to escape to.
Want to vist the island early? You can request access here.
Umm, we don’t know why anybody would want to do this, or even why Meta would think anybody would want this, BUT…
Meta is now testing AI-generated comment suggestions on posts, blending machine learning with social engagement—and yes, it’s as wild as it sounds. This tool - called "Write with Meta AI” - provides users with comment options based on the content of the post that they are viewing.
Meta’s play here is part of a larger mission: embedding AI into more corners of Facebook and Instagram, aiming to enhance interactions in areas such as comments, feeds, groups, and search. No big surprise here, but the feature is already stirring up mixed feelings.
On one hand, it’s a time-saver and a creativity booster for those blank-comment moments. On the other hand, it’s starting to raise serious questions about the authenticity of social interaction.
As this feature is still in the testing phase, it's unclear when or if it will be rolled out to all users. Meta has not provided specific details of the timeline or scope of a release.
Cringy or cool? The verdict is still out.
That’s a wrap! See you next month. 👋
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