February 2026 Social Media Updates You Need to Know

Here are the February 2026 social media updates and platform news you need to know. 

TikTok Adds Local Feed in the U.S.

TikTok has launched a Local Feed for the U.S., a dedicated tab designed to help users discover content, businesses, and events happening near them.

The feed highlights posts related to restaurants, shopping, travel, and community events, prioritizing content based on a user’s location, topic relevance, and how recently it was posted.

Only public content from users 18+ is eligible to appear, meaning private accounts and under-18 creators are excluded. To support more accurate recommendations, TikTok is gradually rolling out optional precise GPS location sharing. The feature is turned off by default, is only active while the app is in use, and is fully controlled by the user.

TikTok is positioning this as a major opportunity for small businesses, noting that millions of U.S. businesses already use the platform to drive discovery, foot traffic, and growth. The Local Feed further bridges digital content with real-world commerce.

Why This Matters for Marketers

LinkedIn Cracks Down on Artificial Engagement

LinkedIn is stepping up its efforts to reduce artificial engagement, specifically targeting automated comments generated through third-party scripts and browser plugins. *Round of applause*

The move comes after growing concerns about “engagement pods”, which are coordinated groups that like and comment on each other’s posts to artificially inflate reach.

According to LinkedIn, these automated or low-quality comments often flood posts and distort the “Most Relevant” comment section, which is the default view users see.

Moving forward, LinkedIn will remove detected automated comments from the “Most Relevant” feed and may limit their visibility to only the commenter’s direct network. Repeat offenders risk account restrictions.

Why This Matters for Marketers

Meta Tests AI Video App

No one wants to scroll for hours through an app of only AI-generated content, but Meta seems to think otherwise. 

Meta is expanding its AI video ambitions with a new standalone version of its “Vibes” feed, currently being tested in Brazil and Mexico. The app creates a dedicated, full-screen feed focused entirely on AI-generated video content.

Originally launched within the Meta AI app last year, Vibes allows users to generate, edit, and share short-form AI videos. Meta reports that AI-generated content creation within its ecosystem increased significantly in late 2025, prompting the company to invest further in a more immersive, video-first experience.

Kind of dystopian, if you ask us. As powerful as AI is becoming, and as much as users are adopting it, people are still going to crave real, human content at the end of the day. 

Why This Matters for Marketers

Portugal Restricts Social Media Use for Kids Under 16 

The under-16 social media bans are really catching on. 

Portugal has passed legislation restricting access to social media platforms for children under 16. Under the new bill, users aged 13–16 will require verified parental consent to create accounts, while children under 13 will be prohibited from accessing platforms altogether.

The law applies to major social networks like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, and includes requirements for platforms to implement stronger protections against harmful content for minors.

Australia previously enacted similar restrictions, placing responsibility on platforms to implement age verification systems. France, Denmark, Italy, Spain, and others are at various stages of introducing comparable measures across Europe.

Why This Matters for Marketers

Ready to Put These Updates Into Action?

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.

That RANDOM Agency Wins 4 National Marketing Awards in 2025

That Random Agency 2025 awards

In 2025, That RANDOM Agency—a Detroit-based, women-owned social media and digital marketing agency—received national recognition for our strategic creativity and commitment to delivering results that matter. Our team earned four prestigious industry awards across social media management, content creation, and integrated marketing campaigns.

These awards reflect more than accolades on a shelf. They represent the trust our clients place in us, the innovative strategies we develop, and the measurable impact we create for brands ranging from healthcare thought leaders to local restaurants and financial institutions.

Why Industry Recognition Matters for Your Brand

When choosing a marketing partner, industry awards serve as third-party validation of expertise and results. Award-winning agencies demonstrate:

Strategic Excellence: The ability to develop data-driven campaigns that align with business objectives

Creative Innovation: Fresh approaches that cut through digital noise and capture audience attention

Proven Results: Measurable outcomes including engagement growth, brand awareness, and ROI

Industry Expertise: Deep understanding of platform algorithms, audience behavior, and emerging trends

That Random Agency award badges for 2025 marketing awards

Our 2025 Award-Winning Work

Each award recognizes the collaborative effort between our team and our clients. Here's what we achieved together:

Communicator Awards – Award of Distinction

Category: Social Media, Food and Drink

Client: Trasca & Co Eatery

The Communicator Awards recognize excellence, effectiveness, and innovation across all areas of communication. Our work with Trasca & Co Eatery showcased how strategic social media management can elevate a local restaurant brand into a community destination.

Our Approach: 

We developed a content strategy that highlighted Trasca's authentic Italian cuisine, behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, and seasonal menu offerings. By combining mouth-watering food photography with community storytelling, we created a social presence that drove both online engagement and foot traffic to their location.

Learn more about the Communicator Awards: communicatorawards.com

That Random Agency Communicator Awards 2025 badge

MarCom Awards – Platinum Award

Category: Social Media Content

Client: Dr. William Li

MarCom Awards honor excellence in marketing and communication while recognizing the creativity, hard work, and generosity of industry professionals. Earning a Platinum Award—the highest level of recognition—reflects our team's ability to translate complex medical science into engaging, accessible social content.

Our Approach: 

Dr. William Li, a renowned physician and founder of the Angiogenesis Foundation, needed a social media strategy that could educate audiences about health and nutrition while building his personal brand. We created a content ecosystem that balanced scientific credibility with relatability—transforming research findings into actionable health tips that resonated with millions of followers across platforms.

Learn more about the MarCom Awards: marcomawards.com

That Random Agency MarCom Awards 2025 badge

Davey Awards – Gold Award

Category: Social Features, Best Social Presence

Client: Dr. William Li

The Davey Awards celebrate media, marketing, and creative excellence from small agencies and creative shops. Winning Gold in the competitive Best Social Presence category demonstrates our ability to build cohesive, impactful brand narratives across multiple social platforms.

What Makes a Gold-Level Social Presence: 

A truly exceptional social presence requires more than posting regularly. It demands strategic platform optimization, authentic community engagement, consistent brand voice, and content that drives meaningful conversations. Our work with Dr. Li achieved all of this—establishing him as a trusted voice in health and wellness while growing his engaged community by over 150% year-over-year.

Learn more about the Davey Awards: daveyawards.com

That Random Agency Davey Awards 2025 badge

PR Daily Awards – Finalist

Category: Finance and Banking Campaign

Client: Comerica Wealth Management

Campaign: 2024 Year-End Planning Guide

PR Daily Awards celebrate the most successful campaigns, initiatives, people, and teams in communication, PR, marketing, and employee wellbeing industries. Being named a finalist in the highly competitive Finance and Banking category recognizes our ability to create educational content that builds trust in a heavily regulated industry.

Our Approach: 

Financial services marketing requires a delicate balance—providing valuable information while maintaining compliance and building credibility. Our Year-End Planning Guide campaign for Comerica Wealth Management delivered actionable financial planning insights through a multi-channel content strategy that included downloadable resources, social media education, and thought leadership positioning.

Learn more about the PR Daily Awards: prdailyawards.com

What Makes Award-Winning Social Media Strategy

Award recognition doesn't happen by accident. It's the result of intentional strategy, creative excellence, and measurable results. Here's what separates award-winning social media work from the rest:

1. Deep Audience Understanding

We don't create content based on assumptions. Every strategy begins with comprehensive audience research—understanding demographics, psychographics, pain points, aspirations, and content consumption habits. This foundation ensures every post resonates with the people who matter most to your business.

2. Platform-Specific Optimization

A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work in social media. Each platform has unique algorithms, audience behaviors, and content formats. Our award-winning work demonstrates mastery of platform-specific best practices—from Instagram Reels and TikTok trends to LinkedIn thought leadership and Facebook community building.

3. Authentic Storytelling

Audiences can spot inauthenticity instantly. Our content strategies prioritize genuine brand storytelling that reflects your values, showcases your expertise, and builds emotional connections with your community. Whether it's a local eatery or a globally recognized physician, we help brands show up as their authentic selves.

4. Data-Driven Decision Making

Every campaign we create is grounded in analytics. We track engagement rates, audience growth, reach, impressions, click-through rates, and conversion metrics. This data informs our content calendar adjustments, A/B testing strategies, and budget allocation decisions—ensuring continuous improvement and maximum ROI.

5. Consistent Brand Voice

Award-winning social presence requires consistency across all touchpoints. We develop comprehensive brand voice guidelines that ensure every post, comment, and interaction reinforces your brand identity—building recognition and trust over time.

The RANDOM Difference: Your Award-Worthy Marketing Partner

That RANDOM Agency isn't your typical marketing firm. As a women-owned business based in Detroit, Michigan, we bring a unique perspective to digital marketing—combining Midwest values with cutting-edge strategy. Our team specializes in:

We've earned the trust of clients across industries—from healthcare and finance to food service and automotive. Whether you're a startup finding your voice or an established brand looking to evolve, we create marketing strategies that deliver measurable results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What awards did That RANDOM Agency win in 2025?

That RANDOM Agency won four national marketing awards in 2025: Communicator Awards – Award of Distinction (Food & Drink Social Media), MarCom Awards – Platinum Award (Social Media Content), Davey Awards – Gold Award (Best Social Presence), and PR Daily Awards – Finalist (Finance & Banking Campaign).

Why did RANDOM win the MarCom Platinum Award?

RANDOM earned the MarCom Platinum Award for exceptional social media content created for Dr. William Li. The campaign successfully translated complex medical science into engaging, educational content that reached millions while maintaining scientific credibility and building Dr. Li's personal brand.

Which clients were featured in RANDOM's award-winning work?

RANDOM's 2025 awards recognized work with three clients: Dr. William Li (MarCom Platinum and Davey Gold), Trasca & Co Eatery (Communicator Award of Distinction), and Comerica Wealth Management (PR Daily Finalist).

What makes RANDOM an award-winning social media agency?

RANDOM combines strategic thinking, creative excellence, and data-driven optimization. As a Detroit-based, women-owned agency, we bring fresh perspectives to social media management, content creation, and digital marketing—delivering measurable results that earn industry recognition.

Ready for Award-Worthy Results?

Your brand deserves marketing that stands out. Whether you need a complete social media strategy overhaul, help launching a thought leadership campaign, or a partner to elevate your digital presence, RANDOM is here to help.

Our award-winning team is ready to:

LET'S CREATE SOMETHING AWARD-WORTHY TOGETHER

Schedule a Free Consultation with RANDOM

January 2026 Social Media Updates You Need to Know

The start of 2026 is already bringing meaningful changes across social platforms. Here are the January 2026 social media updates you need to know. 

TikTok’s U.S. Operations Officially Sold to American Investors 

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 has been under new leadership for like a day and I made a slideshow with posts from the ICE rally today and it immediately got out under review and is not being published. Incredible.

— pnwpolicyangel aka Angelita 👼 (@pnwpolicyangel.bsky.social) 2026-01-26T03:15:37.282Z

Can’t help but notice a lot of social media reports of Tik Tok censoring anti-ICE content in its first weekend under Trump-directed US management, and no mainstream news coverage thus far.

— southpaw (@nycsouthpaw.bsky.social) 2026-01-26T03:57:47.539Z

Why This Matters for Marketers

TikTok Expands Marketing Partner Support

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.

Why This Matters for Marketers

Meta Complies With Australia’s Teen Social Media Ban

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.

Why This Matters for Marketers

OpenAI May Be Considering a Pinterest Acquisition

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.

Why This Matters for Marketers

Ready to Put These Updates Into Action?

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.

December 2025 Social Media Updates You Need to Know

Social media never slows down, even at the end of the year. Here are the December 2025 social media updates you need to know to start out 2026. 

Instagram Tests “Early Access” Reels for Followers

Instagram is testing a new Early Access Reels feature that allows creators to temporarily lock a Reel so only followers can view it before it’s released publicly.

These Reels appear blurred in the grid, accompanied by a countdown timer, and prompt non-followers to follow the creator to unlock the content early. The goal is simple: encourage following by offering exclusivity.

Why this matters:

This isn’t a massive shift, but it’s a feature worth testing for launches, announcements, or high-value content. But it’ll be crucial to make sure the content behind the lock is compelling enough to justify the follow.

Instagram Now Allows Any Public Story to Be Reshared

Instagram has expanded its reposting tools again. Users can now share any public Story to their own Stories, even if they aren’t tagged in the original post.

Previously, Story resharing was limited to content you were mentioned in. This update brings Stories in line with Instagram’s newer repost options for feed posts and Reels.

Why this matters:

This move also supports Instagram’s ongoing effort to reward original creators. For brands, it means more chances for Stories to travel beyond your own audience.

Australia Starts Enforcing Under-16 Social Media Restrictions

A new policy in Australia requiring social platforms to take measures to block users under 16 went into effect in December. Platforms that fail to comply face potential fines. 

The ten platforms currently included in the ban are Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Kick, and Twitch.

Why this matters globally:

Regardless of how effective enforcement ultimately becomes, this signals increased regulatory pressure on platforms.

Meta Expands Creator Partnership Tools for Brands

Meta announced several updates designed to make creator partnership ads easier to find, manage, and scale.

Brands now gain better visibility into creator content that already mentions or tags them, along with performance metrics such as views, engagement, and saves, all within Ads Manager. Meta also rolled out new API access for partnership ads and expanded creator discovery to include Professional Mode profiles.

Permissions have also been streamlined, allowing creators to proactively share ad codes with brands, thereby speeding up campaign launches.

Why this matters:

Ready to Put These Updates Into Action?

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.

2026 Social Media Trends and Predictions

As brands plan for the year ahead, the most significant 2026 social media trends indicate a shift toward more in-depth content, innovative technology, and a stronger emphasis on authenticity. These shifts impact how people search, learn, and trust. Read on for the trends we expect to shape strategy the most.

1. AI Becomes a Core Part of Content Strategy

AI has become a daily tool for many social media marketers, shaping ideas, workflows, and execution. One of the biggest social media trends in 2026 will be the movement toward AI as a collaborator rather than a shortcut.

What this means for brands:

AI raises expectations for both volume and clarity. The brands that win in 2026 will treat AI as a strategic partner, rather than a replacement for their voice. Read our next prediction to see what we mean. 

(Psssst: Our very real and very human social media strategy experts have built an AI collaborator perfect for balancing efficiency and authenticity. Discover how Randy can make your content creation easier.) 

2. Authentic, Human-First Content Outperforms AI-Only Content

As AI-generated content increases, one of the most important 2026 social media trends will be the renewed demand for human tone. Users crave honesty, imperfection, and connection. AI is a great collaborator for strategizing and drafting, but it’s not a complete replacement for your unique voice. 

Human-first content looks like:

AI enhances efficiency, but humanity ultimately creates the impact. Brands that strike a balance between both will build trust and stand out in a crowded landscape.

3. Long-Form Video Takes Over Again

Longer content is expected to continue rising as one of the most impactful social media trends in 2026. Users want depth, explanation, and context. Platforms want watch time.

Why this matters:

Expect to see:

4. Social Search Becomes a Primary Discovery Channel

A defining 2026 social media trend will be the continued shift from Google to social platforms for everyday search. Younger generations ask TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram for recommendations, tutorials, definitions, and product advice.

What this means for your content:

5. UGC Becomes the Main Creative Format

User-generated content (UGC) will continue to dominate as one of the most prominent social media trends in 2026. Users trust people more than brands.

Why UGC wins:

Brands should invest in:

6. Thought Leadership Becomes a Major Growth Channel

Leader-driven content will become even more central to 2026 social media trends, especially on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok. Users want insight from real people, not faceless brands.

What works:

Why this matters:

It’s time for your executives and founders to be more visible on social media.

Want help activating these 2026 social media trends for your brand? Reach out to our team at Random to build a strategy that keeps you competitive in the year ahead.

TikTok's Latest Ban Extension and Potential Algorithm Updates

The uncertainty around TikTok in the U.S. is not over yet. Former President Trump has extended the deadline for a potential shutdown, giving the platform and U.S. investors more time to finalize a deal. The NBC News report on the extension explains that this extra time reflects ongoing negotiations over data security and national interests, but for marketers it means the platform remains fully operational in the near term.

At the same time, TikTok’s future in the U.S. could look very different if a deal goes through. Coverage from PBS NewsHour on Oracle’s proposed role and reporting in USA Today about U.S. investor arrangements show that Oracle and other investors may play a central role in how TikTok’s algorithm is managed for American users. For businesses that rely on TikTok to reach customers, this raises important questions about content visibility, engagement, and advertising.

Why the Algorithm Matters for Brands

TikTok’s algorithm is the heartbeat of the platform. Unlike other social networks that often prioritize follower counts, TikTok’s For You feed surfaces content based on behavior signals such as watch time, comments, shares, and replays. That is why small creators and niche brands can break through and generate massive visibility without large ad budgets.

If Oracle or another U.S. partner begins overseeing how those signals are processed for American users, we could see:
• More transparency in how content gets distributed to audiences
• Stricter moderation around sensitive or misleading content
• New guidelines for how sponsored posts and ads are measured
• Potential differences in how U.S. users experience TikTok compared to global audiences

What the Ban Extension Means Right Now

For now, marketers can continue to use TikTok as usual. The extension means campaigns, community building, and paid advertising strategies are not immediately disrupted. As the NBC News coverage of the extension notes, the extra time gives negotiators a chance to reach an agreement without an abrupt shutdown.

This also means:
• Active campaigns can keep running without interruption
• Brands should monitor performance data for early signs of algorithm shifts
• Flexibility remains crucial because updates could arrive quickly and reshape the playing field

How Oracle’s Involvement Could Reshape Marketing

Oracle’s potential management of TikTok’s U.S. algorithm introduces both challenges and opportunities. The PBS NewsHour report on Oracle’s role highlights the move’s focus on data security and regulatory trust, and the USA Today coverage adds detail about investor arrangements. For marketers, the ripple effects could include:
• Tighter oversight on ad targeting, reducing how granular campaigns can be
• Clearer reporting on content performance across U.S. audiences
• Prioritization of content that aligns with stricter brand safety policies
• An opportunity to lean into authentic, community-driven storytelling to maintain reach

Steps Marketers Should Take Today

Even with uncertainty, there are practical ways to prepare and stay ahead:

  1. Watch for official guidance. If TikTok or partners publish guidance about U.S.-specific ranking or reporting, adapt quickly.
  2. Keep campaigns running but monitor more frequently. Increase reporting cadence on reach, view sources, and engagement rates.
  3. Diversify your short-form strategy. Build presence on Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts so you can shift momentum if TikTok distribution changes.
  4. Prioritize authentic storytelling. Content that builds relationships performs well across algorithm updates.
  5. Run documented experiments. Test creative variants, format lengths, and broader audience segments so you can detect patterns if signals change.
  6. Prepare contingency ad plans. Map alternative targeting and creative approaches if data access or targeting becomes restricted.

How this could look in practice

• A small brand that goes viral should immediately repurpose assets across platforms to preserve momentum if TikTok distribution tightens.
• An agency that uses highly specific targeting should model broader audience segments and creative variations in advance to avoid performance drops.
• Brands that frequently post topical content may need to document sources and adjust tone to match any new moderation rules.

Looking Ahead

TikTok’s core strengths—short, relatable, repeatable content and strong community engagement—are unlikely to disappear. The environment in which that content competes may become more structured. Brands that invest in consistent storytelling and community building will keep an advantage because those assets translate across platforms.

At That RANDOM Agency, we help brands navigate platform shifts with data-backed creative strategies that turn uncertainty into opportunity. If you want support shaping a resilient TikTok strategy, request a proposal today.

FAQs About TikTok’s Ban and Algorithm Updates

How long is TikTok’s current ban extension?

The recent extension gives negotiators more time to reach an agreement rather than causing an immediate shutdown, as explained in the NBC News report on the extension.

What role would Oracle play in TikTok’s U.S. operations?

Oracle is expected to oversee how recommendations and ranking are processed for U.S. users, with a focus on data security and operational oversight, as covered by PBS NewsHour and USA Today.

Do marketers need to change campaigns immediately?

No. TikTok remains functional during the extension. Use this time to monitor performance and run controlled experiments.

Could ad targeting become more restricted?

Yes. Increased oversight and new data rules could change how user signals are used for targeting. Marketers should prepare alternative audience approaches.

How should marketers prepare for these potential changes?
Keep content authentic, diversify platform strategies, and stay closely tuned to updates from TikTok and U.S. regulators.

August 2025 Top Social Media Trends and Memes

Let’s dive into the August 2025 top social media trends and what we can learn from them. 

#1: The Subway

If there’s one thing TikTok loves, it’s a new Chappell Roan song. Chappell’s latest release, “The Subway,” took social media by storm in August. Some users posted videos applying the lyrics, “She got away,” to their own lives, and others simply used the song as the trending audio on their videos.

@bellachristiejewellery

I also dropped an A level which meant I couldn’t do uni so I did a business course with @Uni Alternative Diploma - Best decisions of my life!!

♬ original sound - londyn womack
@bren.nery

growth is supposed to be uncomfortable

♬ original sound - londyn womack
@rockleyadventure

Ain’t NOTHING boring about teaching 18 9-13 years how to sail for a living #instructor #summerjob #beachy #rockley #sailing

♬ original sound - londyn womack

Why it works:

This isn’t the first viral song from Chappell Roan, so creators were smart to jump on this one quickly. It’s also one of those cases in which users can either apply the lyrics literally or use it as a non-related background sound just to give a dramatic, cinematic flair. 

Creator To-Do:

We can see this one staying evergreen, but even if you don’t hop on this trend, keep your eyes on Chappell Roan. Her stardom is bound to create countless more trends and memes in the future. 

#2: Standing on Business…Literally?

Don’t ask us who started this trend, because it’s been recreated too many times to track down the original at this point. To the tune of “High School” by Nicki Minaj, users are balancing expertly (or sometimes precariously) in high heels on tiny objects. Really impressive, honestly. 

@reduceeveryday

Standing on business. And also on tumblers. #nickiminaj #nickiminajchallenge #posechallenge #nickipose #balance

♬ original sound - Lyrics0674
@indoorcyclingtv

👑🏆Nicki Minaj Pose is now a Nicki Minaj Challenge🏆👑 This gravity defying stunt is taking over the internet. TikTok’s newest trend features a gravity defying pose where users perch on a tall stack of random objects, while crossing their legs as they stand on one foot… in heels. Known as the “Nicki Minaj challenge,” this viral moment is an elaborate balancing act. The challenge has taken over the internet, as the hashtag #nickiminajchallenge has been used over one million times on TikTok alone. Where Did the Nicki Minaj Challenge Come From? The trend is inspired by rapper Nicki Minaj’s famous pose in the music video for the 2013 song “High School” ft. Lil Wayne. At the video’s 34 second mark, Minaj stands by a swimming pool in stilettos, crouching low to the ground with one leg crossed over the other. In April, TikTok user @1jacore posted a video attempting to emulate Minaj. Since then, others followed suit, with many getting creative as they tried to channel the singer's impressive posture. Now, the trend has evolved beyond just completing Minaj’s original pose. Users have taken the challenge to new heights, balancing on as many objects as possible, all while wearing a pair of high heels. The trend also appears to have become somewhat competitive, with some participants seemingly attempting to outdo one another with the most elaborate balancing act. For example, one user posted a video of herself on TikTok balancing on a tall stack of tables in her garden. In the video, she holds a hose in one hand and balances on an upside down flowerpot while in a pair of heels. Users have also recorded themselves balancing on champagne bottles, cakes and weights. On TODAY with Jenna & Friends July 24, Jenna Bush Hager and Willie Geist both attempted the trend. Jenna completed the pose on a stack of books with her July book club pick in hand and a pair of sunglasses on. Willie fulfilled the challenge by balancing on top of ceramic coffee mugs with a margarita in hand. (INSTAGRAM) 🏆Emma Graves @emmagravey 🏆Saira Mohiuddin @saira_cycle #nickiminajchallenge #spinclass #indoorcyclinginstructor #spininstructor #indoorcycling #ridetheworld

♬ original sound - Indoor Cycling Community
@beysisofficial

If @Rachael Wilde can stand on @tbh skincare, we can do it on coffee cups 💪

♬ original sound - Nini&Tiny

Why it works:

This trend was popular for brands to participate in; many used their own products as props to stand on. It’s certainly an out-of-the-box way to showcase your products, and it’s especially creative if you want to show off certain benefits of the product, like durability or strength. 

Creator To-Do:

This trend has already peaked, but you can still take this as a reminder to step outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to participate in a significant trend just because it’s a little sillier than what you normally post. Oftentimes, that’s the kind of content people connect with the most. 

#3: 24 Karat Gold Labubu

This one’s a little out of pocket, but that describes all of TikTok at this point. In June, user Lilz Bullz Official posted this viral video claiming she owned the only “24 karat gold Labubu.” If you’re unaware of the frenzy around these dolls, you can go down the Labubu rabbit hole at your own risk. In the weeks since she posted that video, users have been comically re-creating her video with their pets, kids, and friends. It’s a sight to behold. 

@iamrigbycat

ain’t no way that lady did what she did and hit post 😭 #fyp #labubu #catcontent #sillycat #rigbycat

♬ La BEW BEW - Lilz Bullz Official
@henryandhuckleberry

Labubeauty

♬ La BEW BEW - Lilz Bullz Official
@madelynrose.morton

#labubu

♬ La BEW BEW - Lilz Bullz Official

Why it works:

Re-creation is a big hallmark of TikTok–especially when users can show off their humor and get just as many views as the original video. Combine the comedy with the already viral nature of Labubus, and you’ve got the recipe for a HUGE meme. 

Creator To-Do:

This trend didn’t fit as naturally for brands, and that’s okay. Just keep an eye on Labubus and other cultural phenomena–they inevitably create some incredible social media memes.    

#4: The Life of a Showgirl 

And finally, saving the best for last. Taylor Swift announced her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, to be released on October 3rd. As you can imagine, fans and big brands alike went crazy. 

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A post shared by Tic Tac USA (@tictacusa)

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A post shared by FedEx (@fedex)

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A post shared by Auntie Anne's (@auntieannespretzels)

We could seriously go on and on with the examples here, but we’ll spare you the mile-long list. 

Why it works:

Come on, it’s a new Taylor Swift album. It’s impossible for it NOT to take over social media. Over the years, we’ve seen more brands become Swifties to drive engagement, connect authentically with their audience, and stay relevant. 

Creator To-Do:

Keep an open mind for ways to join in on the anticipation leading up to the album drop and the excitement following the release.

And that's a wrap on the August 2025 top social media trends and memes! Ready to elevate your digital marketing strategy? Chat with our team today!

Instagram Reposts, Map, and More: Newest Features in August 2025

Meta recently launched three new Instagram features: Instagram Reposts, the Instagram Map, and the Friends tab in Reels. These updates are designed to help users connect more closely through shared content, location, and social interactions.

For marketers and social media strategists, these features present new opportunities to expand reach, build community, and analyze engagement in more meaningful ways. Here's what each update means and how to take advantage of them.

What Are Instagram Reposts?

First, Instagram now allows users to repost public Reels and feed posts. These reposts are shown in followers' feeds and saved in a separate tab on the user's profile.

Why this matters for marketers:

Tip: Encourage reposts with clear calls-to-action in your content.

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What Is Instagram Map?

Next, the new Instagram Map feature allows users to opt into location sharing with selected friends and explore content based on geographic tags. This opens up opportunities for marketers to localize content and connect with users based on where they are.

Marketing opportunities:

Tip: We realize this feature isn’t for everybody, and it’s already causing a stir online. If you don’t want your followers to know your exact location, we suggest turning it off.

What Is the Friends Tab in Reels?

Finally, Instagram has added a new "Friends" tab in Reels, where users can see content their mutual connections have liked, commented on, reposted, or created. This feature supports more personalized content discovery.

How to use it strategically:

How Marketers Can Adapt to Instagram Reposts

Lastly, to keep up with these Instagram changes, marketers should begin evolving their strategy today:

So, marketers who test early and analyze thoroughly will be best positioned to take advantage of these features as they evolve.

Want to work with an agency that is always on the cusp of the latest social media developments? Reach out to us today.