The start of 2026 is already bringing meaningful changes across social platforms. Here are the January 2026 social media updates you need to know.
In January 2026, TikTok confirmed the creation of TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, a new U.S.-based entity formed to comply with federal requirements around national security and data protection.
Under this structure, ByteDance now owns less than 20% of TikTok’s U.S. operations, while the remaining ownership sits with a group of American investors led by Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX. Oracle will also serve as TikTok’s trusted security partner, overseeing data protection, algorithm oversight, and compliance.
The new entity will oversee content moderation, data handling, and algorithm security, with ByteDance no longer having access to U.S. user data or control over the U.S. algorithm.
At the same time, TikTok rolled out an updated Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, prompting renewed attention to how the platform collects and uses data.
While much of the language mirrors previous policies, the updated version more explicitly acknowledges the collection of precise location data (depending on user settings). TikTok also expanded language around third-party advertising and added clearer rules for generative AI content, including labeling requirements and restrictions on AI misuse.
Users are already expressing concern over the new Terms of Service and other changes, with some claiming that TikTok U.S. may now be censoring certain content.
TikTok introduced a new Channel Sales Partner tier within its Marketing Partners Program. This update is designed to help small and mid-sized businesses access more specialized support for TikTok advertising and campaign execution.
The initial group includes six established marketing platforms across North America and Europe, all vetted to meet TikTok’s technical and operational standards.
Meta confirmed it has removed more than 540,000 accounts in Australia, believed to belong to users under the age of 16. The move follows Australia’s new social media law, which requires platforms to take “reasonable steps” to restrict underage access or face significant fines.
The policy applies to major platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Meta has also announced plans to integrate AgeKey verification technology in 2026, allowing users to verify their age through ID, facial estimation, or digital wallets. Meta continues to advocate for age verification to occur at the app store level, creating consistent enforcement across platforms.
A predictions post from The Information suggested OpenAI may be considering acquiring Pinterest. This would come as part of a broader effort to secure more human-generated data, particularly around product discovery and search behavior.
Unlike competitors such as Meta and Google, OpenAI lacks its own social or search network. Pinterest’s large, intent-driven audience and strong commerce signals could help power AI tools focused on shopping, discovery, and advertising.
Social media changes fast, but you don’t have to keep up alone. If you’re unsure how these platform updates should impact your content, paid strategy, or creator partnerships, we’re here to help.
Connect with the Random team to start building a smarter social strategy.
