SMM Weekly Digest on 25-29 of March 2024

Instagram Enhances Discovery with Expanded Hashtag Search

Instagram has revolutionized the way users discover content by updating its hashtag search functionality. Now, when tapping on a hashtag, such as “#makeup,” users are directed to a comprehensive search results page, akin to the explore feature, instead of just seeing the “Top Posts.” This strategic move by Instagram aims to enrich profile discovery and encourage a broader exploration of content, moving beyond the limitations of the previous system. The update is expected to increase visibility for various content types, including Accounts, Audio, Places, and Reels, thereby enhancing the overall user experience on the platform.

Reddit’s IPO Marks a New Chapter for the Platform

Reddit’s journey to becoming a publicly listed company has culminated successfully, with its shares soaring 67% in early trading post-IPO. Priced at $34 per share, the significant interest from investors underscores the platform’s potential despite its current unprofitability and modest growth. With over 73 million daily active users, Reddit has shown steady expansion. The platform’s engagement with AI companies, particularly a $60 million deal with Google, hints at new revenue avenues through data licensing. However, this strategy also attracts scrutiny, such as the FTC’s investigation into Reddit’s data handling practices.

Threads Integrates with the Fediverse to Expand Social Reach

Meta’s Threads app has made a significant move towards decentralization by allowing users in the U.S., Canada, and Japan, aged over 18, to share their content with ActivityPub-compliant servers. This integration with the Fediverse enables Threads users to interact with decentralized social networks like Mastodon and WordPress, fostering greater engagement and content reach without requiring a Threads account. Despite facing resistance from Fediverse administrators wary of Meta’s influence, this initiative marks a bold step in exploring the future of social connectivity and user data control.

X Develops New Job Search Features to Compete in the Hiring Market

X (formerly Twitter) is enhancing its job discovery features with the introduction of new search filters, including job level seniority and company name, aiming to rival LinkedIn’s job search capabilities. This development is part of X’s broader strategy to capitalize on its professional networking potential, evidenced by over a million job listings now available through the platform. Despite challenges in attracting advertisers due to content policy controversies, X Hiring presents a promising opportunity for the platform to diversify its revenue streams and strengthen its position in the competitive job market landscape.