If you missed last month’s digital marketing updates, you could click here to read them. Here is a list of #NewThingsInDigital for the month of August 2024.
43 Digital Marketing Updates September
1. Meta announces next steps for EU messaging interoperability
Meta has taken the next step in its third-party messaging integration process for EU users, allowing Messenger and WhatsApp to import chats from other apps.
This move aligns with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which mandates large messaging platforms to support interoperability, ensuring fair competition with smaller providers.
To simplify the experience, Meta is enhancing its UI and adding clearer in-app prompts, making connecting with people across different apps easier. Notifications within WhatsApp and
Messenger will inform users about third-party chats, and Meta will provide alerts when new apps are supported.
Additionally, Meta has introduced new explainers to help users understand and activate this feature. A critical update includes the ability to keep messages from third-party apps separate from your main chats, offering more control over the messaging experience.
2. Bluesky and Threads rise following X’s Brazil ban
Following X’s ban in Brazil due to its failure to curb harmful misinformation, users have shifted to alternative platforms. Bluesky, a Twitter alternative, saw a 50% surge in its user base, gaining 3 million users, mainly from Brazil. Meta’s Threads has also emerged as a key competitor, overtaking Bluesky in the region’s app charts. Whether X can regain its position if reinstated remains uncertain, as new platforms quickly fill the void left by its absence.
3. YouTube implements restrictions on content recommendations for teens
YouTube is lowering the recommended content limits for teenagers in an effort to lessen the adverse effects of overexposure. To reduce the detrimental effects of social comparison and inadequacy, these limits will target content that compares physical attributes, idealises particular body types, or exhibits social violence. This is a component of YouTube’s more extensive initiatives to restrict exposure to unhealthy subjects like harassment, eating disorders, and child safety. YouTube has taken a significant step in safeguarding younger users by implementing these modifications globally, even though enforcing them algorithmically can be difficult.
4. YouTube develops new processes to detect AI deep fakes
YouTube is enhancing its AI deepfake detection tools to protect creators better and prevent misrepresentation. The platform has developed a new “synthetic-singing identification technology” that helps artists and publishers detect AI-generated content mimicking their voices. Additionally, YouTube is working on a tool to detect AI-generated content that replicates real people’s faces. These advancements will aid the entertainment and political sectors in combating deepfakes, expanding on YouTube’s existing copyright protection measures.
5. YouTube adds more thumb frame editing options for Shorts
Creators of Shorts on YouTube now have additional customisation choices thanks to the ability to change their thumbnails after posting, incorporating text and filters into a selected frame. Though custom thumbnail uploads aren’t supported just now, these additional capabilities improve how Shorts look. However, according to YouTube, users mostly find these films in the full-screen Shorts feed and don’t choose them based on thumbnails; thus, fully customised thumbnails aren’t required for Shorts.
6. Google Search you visit often tests accordion design
Google is testing a new design for its “you visit often” labels, introducing an accordion-style interface to display multiple frequently visited sites. Typically, this feature appears as a label on search result snippets, but the new version, spotted by Gagan Ghotra on X, organizes these sites in an expandable accordion format. While opinions may vary on the design, it’s part of Google’s ongoing efforts to experiment and refine user experience.
7. Google tests new shopping search design
Google is testing a redesigned mobile shopping search interface featuring a new Google logo, gradient background, updated headers, and various sections and labels. While the new look is visually striking, it appears slightly less clean than the standard Google Search interface.
8. Google tests new map pin shapes
Google is experimenting with a new form for the map pins in Google Maps and Google Search, as well as possibly new colours. The revised design uses a more rounded, circle-like appearance in place of the conventional pin or diamond shape. Gagan Ghotra on X provided screenshots showcasing the new map pins in the integrated map on the Google Search mobile results page.
9. Google tests top comments & related discussions for forum search results
Google has confirmed they are testing a new forum display in search results featuring top comments and related discussions. This new format presents forum content more interactively within Google Search results, giving users a more detailed view of discussions.
10. Threads adds simplified fediverse connection options
Threads is streamlining Fediverse sharing with a new, simplified connection process. Users can now activate Fediverse linkage directly from a straightforward prompt, making it easier to connect their Threads posts with other ActivityPub-powered platforms like Mastodon. This update could increase Threads’ user base on the Fediverse, though its broader adoption remains uncertain. Convenience often drives user engagement, and while decentralized social media offers more control and input, its complexity has historically been a barrier.
11. Meta gains approval to use UK user posts in AI training
Meta paused AI work using postings from UK users in July, but now it has permission to resume it. To improve its AI’s comprehension of British language and culture, the business will train it on public posts made by adult UK users on Facebook and Instagram. Meta will only use publicly available data; private communications and information from underage users will not be included. By using this method, their AI models will be improved for better output and interaction.
12. Google announces AI training programs for SMBs
Google is introducing a new program to assist small companies in utilising generative AI. To establish America’s SBDC AI U, the corporation is partnering with the Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) and investing $10 million. Under this program, university and community college students will aid nearby firms with practical support while receiving AI training and equipment.
Furthermore, Google’s Grow with Google is launching an AI training program on demand to help small businesses use Google’s AI tools for process optimization and improved operations.
13. Youtube rolls out ‘add yours’ sticker for shorts to all users
Following a successful test phase, YouTube is now making its “Add Yours” sticker available to all Shorts users. This feature promotes more interactive content by encouraging users to remix Shorts pieces.
The “Add Yours” sticker is reminiscent of an Instagram feature derived from the Duet function on TikTok. Platforms are continuing to mimic one another’s features in an attempt to retain users, which reduces R&D expenses but makes it harder to distinguish between distinct apps.
This tactic works despite the possibility of platforms becoming indistinguishable. YouTube Shorts, a clone of other social media platforms, has grown quickly and is currently averaging over 70 billion views daily. Further features that encourage user participation are essential to keep this momentum going.
14. YouTube adds website visits goal for promotions
YouTube has introduced a new “Website Visits” goal for paid promotions in YouTube Studio, allowing channel managers to target site traffic directly. This feature complements existing Google Ads options.
YouTube explains that this makes attracting your ideal audience easier and converting video views into site visits. With simple targeting options, you can quickly set up ads and track their effectiveness in YouTube Studio.
The “Website Visits” goal can be used for ads on Shorts, the main feed, and skippable in-stream ads. Note that these promotions are separate from organic reach and do not contribute to YouTube Partner Program eligibility.
15. Google Maps showing business photos on review sentiments
Google now displays business-submitted photos from Google Business Profiles in the Google Local and Maps review sentiments section. This means you may see pictures uploaded by the business, not just customer review photos, above the reviews. Claudia Tomina noted this change on X, emphasizing that “Google now features photos on review sentiments. These are business-uploaded photos, not customer photos. Photos matter!”
16. Bing local pack tests review source icons instead of review stars
Microsoft is testing a new feature in Bing Search’s local pack. Instead of review stars, it shows the logos of review sources like Yelp or Facebook. For example, if reviews are from Yelp, the Yelp logo will appear, followed by the average rating and number of reviews, but without stars. Frank Sandtmann shared this update on Mastodon, noting that this change might make it easier to see where reviews come from. What do you think about Bing using source logos instead of stars?
17. Google testing for reference search box
Google is testing a new “for reference” search box below search results, offering extra news articles related to the query. Though I couldn’t replicate it, Shameem Adhikarath shared a screenshot on X, which you can view here:
18. Google tests AI overview with a small “More” link
Google is testing a change that will replace the large “show more” button with a small “more” link at the bottom of the AI Overview snippet. Additionally, the AI Overview header and Gemini logo might be removed. Clicking “more” expands the snippet to show the full response and link cards, while “less” collapses it. Shameem Adhikarath first spotted this on X and shared a GIF demonstrating the feature.
19. Reddit Launches Top Ads Library to Assist Marketers
Reddit has launched a new “Top Ads Library” designed to assist marketers by showcasing the best-performing ads on its platform. This tool mirrors similar offerings from TikTok and Meta, focusing on real-world examples to guide advertisers in creating effective campaigns. Users can filter ads by keyword, vertical, budget, format, and objective to gain insights into successful strategies.
20. Youtube Announces Auto-Dubbing to More Creators and Languages
YouTube is expanding its auto-dubbing feature to a broader range of creators and languages, enhancing accessibility for global audiences. This innovative tool allows creators to automatically translate their videos into multiple languages, making content more inclusive. By breaking language barriers, YouTube empowers creators to reach diverse viewers and grow their channels effectively. Keep an eye on this exciting update!
21. Youtube launches a range of new features
YouTube recently unveiled a suite of innovative features at its ‘Made On’ event, aimed at enhancing creator engagement and content accessibility. Key updates include expanded editing tools, improved analytics, and new monetization options, empowering creators to optimize their channels. These enhancements reflect YouTube’s commitment to fostering a vibrant community and driving the future of video content creation.
22. Snapchat showcases next gen AR spectacles
Snapchat has unveiled its next-generation AR spectacles, merging cutting-edge technology with user engagement. These innovative glasses enhance real-world experiences by introducing interactive augmented reality features, including enhanced visual effects and social connectivity. As the AR landscape evolves, these spectacles represent a significant leap forward for creators and brands, paving the way for immersive storytelling and audience interaction on the platform.
23. Threads Users Can Now Add up to 20 Photos and Videos per Post
Exciting news for Threads users! The platform now allows users to add up to 20 photos and videos per post, enhancing creative expression. This update aims to boost engagement, offering more dynamic content options for users. With this feature, individuals and brands can share richer narratives, making their posts more visually appealing and engaging than ever before.
24. Google Search Tests Recent Posts Carousel
In the latest update, Google is testing a new “Recent Posts” carousel feature in Search results, aimed at showcasing timely content from websites. This addition is designed to enhance user experience by providing quick access to fresh articles and updates, potentially impacting how businesses approach content marketing and SEO strategies. Stay tuned for more insights as this develops!
25. Google Tests Expanded & More Discussions and Forums Results
In the latest update, Google is testing a new “Recent Posts” carousel feature in Search results, aimed at showcasing timely content from websites. This addition is designed to enhance user experience by providing quick access to fresh posts and updates, potentially impacting how businesses approach content marketing and SEO strategies. Stay tuned for more insights as this develops!
26. Google Search Tests Swipeable Dots For Carousels
Google is testing swipeable dots for carousels in search results, enhancing user interaction by allowing seamless navigation through visual content. This feature aims to improve user experience by making it easier to scroll between items like images and news articles. As digital marketing evolves, keeping an eye on these updates is crucial for optimizing our strategies.
27. Google Tests Sticky Headers For Ads & Results
In a recent update, Google is testing sticky headers for ads and search results, aiming to enhance user engagement. This feature keeps important navigation and ads visible as users scroll, potentially increasing ad visibility and click-through rates. Marketers should watch this development closely, as it could reshape ad strategies and improve overall user experience on search results pages.
28. Bing Searches You Might Like Box
Bing’s “Searches You Might Like” box enhances user experience by providing personalized search suggestions based on browsing history and interests. This feature aims to boost engagement by curating relevant content that aligns with user preferences, helping marketers target their audience more effectively. Stay ahead of the curve with these insights for optimizing your digital strategy on Bing.
29. New Bing Places Support Contact Form
Introducing the new Bing Places Support Contact Form, designed to streamline user assistance for businesses on the platform. This feature allows users to easily report issues and receive timely support, enhancing the overall experience for business owners managing their online presence. Improved communication means better service, ultimately helping businesses thrive in the competitive digital landscape.
30. Google Blue Map Pin & City Name On Search Results Snippets
In recent updates, Google now includes a blue map pin and city name in search result snippets, enhancing local visibility. This feature allows businesses to stand out more effectively in local searches, providing users with immediate location context. As digital marketing evolves, optimising for this update can significantly improve local SEO strategies and drive increased foot traffic to physical locations.
31. Google Reviews & Menu Descriptions Under Local Photos
In the latest update on Google Reviews, local businesses can now enhance user engagement with improved menu descriptions featured under photos. This change enables customers to better understand offerings at a glance, potentially leading to higher interaction rates and informed dining choices. Optimise your local SEO by leveraging these new features to stand out in competitive markets.
32. Google Ads Gains New Options On Enhanced Conversion Coverage Data Page
Google Ads has introduced new options on its Enhanced Conversion Coverage Data page, enhancing how advertisers can track and optimise conversions. These updates allow for better data visibility and reporting, helping marketers refine their strategies. By leveraging improved insights, businesses can make more informed decisions to drive performance and ROI in their ad campaigns. Stay tuned for further developments!
33. Meta Showcases Updated VR Avatars
Meta has unveiled a new format for its in-platform VR avatars, offering more customisable elements to enable users to create more accurate digital depictions of themselves. The updated avatar creation flow will provide increased personalisation options, including AI-generated clothing, to facilitate greater inclusivity and allow people to build characters that feel like digital versions of themselves.
34. Meta Acquires the Threads.com URL
Meta has acquired the Threads.com domain name, streamlining the user experience for its Threads social networking app. acquisition comes after Threads.com was previously owned by a messaging company, causing confusion as users mistakenly visited the wrong platform. With Meta now owning the domain, it can better direct traffic to its Threads app, which has seen significant growth, reaching over 130 million monthly users.
35. Reddit Expands Post Translation Option to More Languages
Reddit is expanding its AI-powered post translation feature to more languages, enabling users to seamlessly translate posts and comments across the platform. This update will allow Redditors in Brazil, Spain, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, and throughout Latin America to translate content into their preferred language.
36. YouTube Expands Access to Its Own Gen AI Assistant
YouTube is expanding access to its conversational AI tool, which is essentially its own AI chatbot that can provide answers to queries within your video engagement options. This AI assistant is accessible via an “Ask” button below video clips, allowing viewers to get quick responses to their questions.
37. Google Search Tests Shopping / E-Commerce Card
Google is testing a new top card format for shopping and e-commerce related queries, showcasing product results with pricing, popular stores, and review content. This feature aims to provide a more comprehensive shopping experience directly within the search results, allowing users to easily compare products and retailers. The new card format is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance the shopping experience and cater to the growing number of consumers who turn to search engines for product discovery and purchasing decisions.
38. Google Merchant Listings Adds PriceType Property & Sale Pricing Examples
Google has updated its Merchant Listings documentation to add a new “priceType” property, which allows merchants to specify the full, original listing price of a product. This makes it easier for merchants to showcase sale pricing and bring parity with Merchant Center features. Merchants can now use the “priceType” property to designate a list price, and then provide the current sale price separately.
39. Google Search Tests Preferred Source Label
Google appears to be testing a new preferred source label in its search results, which is displayed on organic listings but not ads. This label seems similar to the “for you” label that was spotted later on, leading to speculation that the two may be the same or related.
40. Google Search Tests For You Label
Google has been testing a new “For you” label in its search results, similar to the “preferred source” label seen previously. This label may be a variation of the “you visit often” feature, providing personalised search results. Google has experimented with “for you” features in the past, like in Google News, so this appears to be the latest iteration. The new label could help surface more relevant content for individual users based on their search history and preferences.
41. Google Maps Fake Review Notice On Business Profile
Google Maps is cracking down on fake business reviews by implementing a new warning feature. When a business profile has recently had fake reviews removed, Google will display a notice informing users. This is part of Google’s efforts to combat fake engagement, including fake reviews and profiles. Businesses found violating Google’s policies can face restrictions like being unable to receive new reviews for a period of time or having existing reviews unpublished.
42. Bing Short Videos Now With Details
Bing is testing new features for its short video carousel in search results, including displaying more details like video length, descriptions, and a “see more” button. This update aims to provide users with more context about the video content, making it easier for them to discover and engage with relevant videos.
43. Google Local Panel Adds “About This Place” Section
Google has introduced a new “About this place” section in the Google local panel within Google Search and Google Maps. This section displays text and image reviews of the business in a stacked card format, providing users with more detailed information about the place. This update highlights the importance of review content for local businesses, as this new section makes review information even more prominent in the search results.
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