Social media never slows down, and October 2025 was no exception. Read our social media round-up for the key updates every creator and brand should know.
TikTok updated its Smart+ ad system, blending automation with more manual control. For those unfamiliar, TikTok’s Smart+ is an automation solution that can be fine-tuned across targeting, creative, placement, and budget to maximize performance for every objective. Check out the changes and why you should care:
What’s New
🤖 Choose AI automation or hands-on control for each campaign module
🧪 Enhanced A/B testing and detailed performance metrics
🎬 New “Symphony” creative tools for resizing, dubbing, and translating videos
📊 Improved GMV Max dashboard for sellers and creators
📈 Integration with Google Analytics and Assisted Conversions for better attribution
Why It Matters
🚀 Smarter automation without losing creative flexibility
💰 Easier to pinpoint which campaigns and creators drive conversions
🧭 Clearer visibility into ad performance and ROI
⚙️ More control over creative, targeting, and optimization
With these enhancements, TikTok gives brands more transparency and creative control, powered by AI precision.
Instagram has rolled out new “PG-13” level restrictions for users under 18. These controls limit what teens can see and search for on the platform.
What’s New
🔒 Teen accounts automatically receive the most restrictive content settings
🚫 Searches for terms like “alcohol” or “violence” are blocked
👥 Teens can’t follow accounts repeatedly posting age-inappropriate content
🌍 Rollout starts in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada
Why It Matters
🧩 Content once visible to younger audiences will now be filtered
🗣️ Language, visuals, and tone will face closer scrutiny
📊 Brands targeting Gen Z must adapt creative direction for compliance
🎬 Influencers with teen-heavy followings should review past content for eligibility
Instagram is signaling a firmer stance on youth protection. Review your content strategy to stay compliant and audience-appropriate.
Instagram introduced Rings, a new awards program celebrating creative excellence. Selected creators receive physical and digital gold rings as symbols of recognition.
What’s New
🏆 Winners receive a physical gold ring and a digital gold ring badge on their profile
💬 Rings appear around profile photos and Stories
🎨 Custom profile features unlock for award recipients
👑 Judged by a panel of cultural figures like Spike Lee and Marc Jacobs
📩 Participation is invite-only, no public applications
Why It Matters
✨ Rings create a new layer of social proof on the platform
📢 Awarded creators gain visibility and prestige
🎯 Brands may seek partnerships with Ring holders to elevate campaigns
💡 Align your content with creativity and originality to stand out in future selections
Instagram is focusing on culture, innovation, and community impact. The Rings program highlights who sets the tone on the platform.
What These Updates Mean for You
That’s a wrap on October 2025 social media updates! See you next month. 👋
Looking for help to implement the latest social media updates and trends? Reach out to us today!
