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Instagram API Update: New Features and Expanded User Access 

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Instagram

Instagram has announced an update to its Content Publishing API, introducing new features and expanding user types. 

This update will revolutionize how creators and brands interact with the platform, offering more flexibility and control over content publishing.

Opening Doors for Creators

Previously, the Instagram Content Publishing API was only accessible to Instagram Business accounts; now, the social platform is expanding API access to Instagram Creator accounts. 

“Beginning today, Instagram Creator accounts can now access the Instagram Content Publishing API to publish content via third-party platforms.” said Jas Shou in a Blog post.

The expansion allows creators to publish content via third-party platforms, opening up a new world of content creation and distribution possibilities. It also offers API developers a broader range of Instagram users, including creators and businesses.

New Features for Reels

Instagram has added two new features to the Content Publishing API for Reels: user tagging and “Original Audio” rename. These features were highly requested by partners who have integrated with the API for Reels.

The user tagging feature allows developers to enable users to tag one or more users during the Reels publishing process via the API. This feature works the same way as in Instagram’s first-party interfaces. Tagged users will receive a notification and see the Reel published in the tagged tab on their profile.

The “Original Audio” rename feature allows users to change the default “Original Audio” name for any original audio they own when creating a Reel via the Instagram Reels API. This feature gives users more control over their content and its presentation to their audience.

Increasing the Limit of Daily Media Posts

In addition to the new features, Instagram has increased the limit of daily media posts per account from 25 to 50 posts across all media types, including Reels, Stories, and Feed posts. This change will enable creators and brands to share more content with their audience, enhancing their presence on the platform.

With these updates, Instagram has ensured that it will not cause any breaking changes for existing integrations. 

This means that developers and users can enjoy the new features and expanded access without worrying about disruptions to their current operations.

By expanding access to Creator accounts and introducing new features, Instagram empowers creators and brands to take their content publishing to the next level.

It’s an exciting time for all Instagram users, and we can’t wait to see the innovative ways these new tools will be used, considering it will take developers sometime before we start seeing the changes.

TikTok’s Open Applications: Connecting Brands and Creators

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partnership

TikTok has recently introduced a new feature that could revolutionize how brands and creators interact. 

The feature, Open Applications, aims to simplify the process of finding the right creators for brand campaigns. 

Open Applications

Open Applications work like a job posting or casting call for creator collaborations on TikTok. With the new feature, Brands will post the details of their upcoming campaigns to the TikTok Creator Marketplace, and creators can proactively apply to these campaigns. 

“The application includes a short pitch or concept for the brand campaign, examples of relevant TikTok videos they’ve created, their contact information, and their proposed fee,” mentioned TikTok in a blog post.

With this feature, it will be easier for brands and creators to find each other, fostering a more authentic and effective partnership. When creators proactively reach out to brands they are excited about, they can participate in campaigns that feel authentic to them.

A New Era of Creator Discovery

One of the standout features of Open Applications is the inclusion of preference filters and screening questions. 

These tools allow brands to narrow down their pool of applicants by various factors such as audience demographics, follower count, location, brand affinity, and relevant experience. 

”When a creator truly believes in the product they’re promoting, that’s when advertising magic is made. We believe that creators should be able to proactively reach out to brands that they are excited about, and further their careers as content creators with partnerships that feel authentic to them,” explained Tiktok in the blog post.

This means brands can find creators with unique stories and connections to their brand—qualities that can be hard to find through a simple creator search.

Open Applications allows creators to use search filters to seek out best-fit opportunities relevant to them and apply to unlimited campaigns. 

Setting Up an Open Application Campaign

To set up an open application, Brands must create a new campaign in the TikTok Creator Marketplace, fill out brand information and campaign details, set their preferred creator qualifications, add screening questions, set the deliverables, and choose the payment method. Once the campaign is published, they can wait for creators to apply or invite specific creators to apply.

Introducing Open Applications opens a new window to social media marketing. By streamlining the process of connecting brands and creators, TikTok might have found a new and effective form of advertising. Brands can find creators who believe in their products, leading to more impactful and engaging campaigns.

The success of this feature will largely depend on its adoption by both brands and creators. If brands fail to provide clear and attractive campaign details, or if creators do not take the initiative to apply proactively, the potential of Open Applications may not be fully realized. 

But for Tiktok, this is something the industry needs, so hopefully, it works out.

WhatsApp Introduces Channels

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WhatsApp has announced the launch of Channels aiming to provide users with a simple, reliable, and private way to receive important updates. 

The new feature will be accessible under the new tab called “Updates,” where users will find Status and the channels they follow, separate from personal chats. 

Channels aim to enhance the user’s app experience by seamlessly connecting them to updates from various people and organizations while maintaining their privacy. 

Channels are designed as a one-way broadcast platform where admins can send their followers’ text, photos, videos, stickers, and polls. 

Users will use a searchable directory to select channels to follow, including hobbies, sports teams, local officials, and more. They will also be accessed through invite links shared via chats, emails, or posted online.

“We’re aspiring to build the most private broadcast service available. This starts by protecting the personal information of both admins and followers. As a channel admin, your phone number and profile photo won’t be shown to followers. Likewise, following a channel won’t reveal your phone number to the admin or other followers. Who you decide to follow is your choice, and it’s private,” mentioned WhatsApp in a blog post.

Despite introducing this new feature, it is concerning how Channels will integrate with WhatsApp’s core function as a private platform for intimate conversations. 

However, WhatsApp may have a strategic plan for this new feature. Im not sure how it will work yet. We will have to wait and see.

Collaborative Growth on YouTube: #ShortsFriends 

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YouTube Shorts have grown substantially globally in recent years, highlighting countless content creators’ inspiring journeys. 

To enhance this, Youtube has launched a new #ShortsFriends initiative; creators will now have the unique opportunity to promote each other by reciprocal sharing within the app, leading to a thriving and supportive network.

The #ShortsFriends Initiative

The referral program allows Short’s creators to promote one another through reciprocal sharing using the hashtag #ShortsFriends.

“Our YouTube Shorts Creator Community is nothing without our wonderful network of creators. We can cultivate and connect creators, much in part by working collaboratively with them to build the community together. Many of the rising stars in our Shorts Community come from referrals from fellow Shorts creators”, mentioned Youtube in the announcment

To join:

Youtube shorts is by creator community invite-only, so ensure you have applied for the invitation, and once approved; you will be able to join by

1. Uploading YouTube Shorts incorporating the hashtag #ShortsFriends.

2. Submit your interest in becoming a part of the Shorts Community here

Shorts Creator Community:

Self-taught artists, musical storytellers, and other talented individuals have benefitted from participating in YouTube referral programs. One creator was particularly successful due to his involvement in the community.

“Over that last six months I have gained over 200,000 subscribers by posting YouTube Shorts,” recounts creator HeyImDanIzzo. “Being in the YouTube shorts community helped me learn from other people’s experiences and I’ve even made friends at in-person shorts events that I talk to every day about content creation. We motivate each other every day and talk about any new features that come out.”

When creators join forces, an atmosphere where growth is achieved through mutual support instead of cutthroat competition is possible.

The initiative paves the way for more established creators to support young and upcoming creatives on the platform, boosting their presence, increasing views, and expanding reach.

“By collaborating with my fellow creators via the #ShortsFriends initiative, I not only expanded my audience but also formed lasting friendships and connections. Together, we were able to offer feedback, encouragement, and motivation to consistently improve our content,” says a Shorts creator who has experienced significant growth from utilizing the program.

This initiative by the Google-owned information platform is a way to foster meaningful connections within the Shorts Creator Community; it has the potential to provide a nurturing environment for creative talent to excel truly. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this collaborative movement – join #ShortsFriends today!

YouTube’s Approach to US Election Misinformation

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Youtube

YouTube, the world’s largest video-sharing platform, has recently announced new updates to address and protect its community during the election season. 

These updates aim to balance protecting the community and providing a space for open discussion and debate, especially in the complex realm of political speech.

The Google-owned platform has allowed some previously prohibited false claims, which has sparked widespread discussion and debate.

In 2020, Youtube was the last among other social media platforms to declare its stance, and being the major information distribution, this move raised many eyebrows.

The Policy Reversal

On June 2, 2023, YouTube announced that it would reverse its rules around election denialism, allowing some previously prohibited false claims to be made on its platform. 

The company stated that removing such content does curb misinformation but could also unintentionally curtail political speech without meaningfully reducing the risk of violence or other real-world harm.

“The ability to openly debate political ideas, even those that are controversial or based on disproven assumptions, is core to a functioning democratic society — especially in the midst of election season,” Youtube mentioned.

“In the current environment, we find that while removing this content does curb some misinformation, it could also have the unintended effect of curtailing political speech without meaningfully reducing the risk of violence or other real-world harm. With that in mind, and with 2024 campaigns well underway, we will stop removing content that advances false claims that widespread fraud, errors, or glitches occurred in the 2020 and other past US Presidential elections. This goes into effect today, Friday, June 2. As with any update to our policies, we carefully deliberated this change,” the update continued.

This policy reversal has raised questions about the role of social media platforms in moderating content and the fine line between protecting users from misinformation and preserving freedom of speech.

It also highlights the challenges that these platforms face in striking a balance between these two objectives.

Looking Ahead

As the 2024 US elections approach, YouTube’s policy reversal and implications for spreading election misinformation will be closely watched. 

The company has promised to provide more updates on its election strategy in the coming months, and it will be interesting to see how this strategy evolves in response to the changing digital landscape. 

YouTube acknowledges the need for intense scrutiny of its elections-related work and welcomes ongoing debate and discussion. 

Although questionable, the platform has stated it is committed to striking a balance between allowing for a broad range of political speech and ensuring it isn’t abused to incite real-world harm or broadly spread harmful misinformation. Do we take their word for it? 2024 is just 6 months away; we’ll have to see it to believe

Meta’s Verified Subscription Program: A New Frontier in India

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Through its channel yesterday, Meta CEO Zuckerberg announced that it had expanded its Meta Verified subscription program to its largest user market, India. 

“Meta verified is now available in India, the UK, and Canada, with Brazil coming soon. Any previously verified account will maintain its status on Instagram and Facebook for free,” said the tech giant CEO in his announcement

This move comes after the initial launch of the program in Australia and New Zealand in February, followed by an expansion to North American and UK users a month later.

Meta Verified: A Closer Look

The Meta Verified subscription program is Meta’s response to Twitter’s Blue-like monthly subscription offering. 

For a recurring monthly payment of $11.99 on the web or $14.99 in-app, users can acquire a blue checkmark for their Facebook and Instagram presence. However, it’s important to note that a single subscription does not cover both platforms. 

Therefore, to have a blue checkmark on Facebook and Instagram, users would need to shell out $23.98 per month, or $287.76 per year.

Beyond the blue checkmark, the Meta Verified subscription has a few additional features. These include proactive account protection from impersonation, dedicated account support from Meta’s team, exclusive stickers for Facebook and Instagram Stories and Facebook Reels, and 100 Stars a month to allocate to other creators on Facebook.

The dedicated account support has proven particularly valuable for users who have experienced issues with their Meta account. Some users have subscribed for a month solely to resolve long-standing issues, after which they let the subscription lapse.

The Value of the Blue Checkmark

As paid programs like Meta Verified become more common, the relevance of the blue checkmark is diminishing. Despite this, the program’s expansion suggests its popularity among users.

India, Meta’s fastest-growing user market with over 300 million Facebook users, presents significant opportunities for the Meta Verified program. 

Given Meta’s rapid growth and popularity in India, many users are likely to sign up for Meta Verified to gain increased credibility in the app.

As Meta continues investing heavily in its VR and metaverse development, new income streams like Meta Verified present new revenue streams for the platform. Meta also plans to launch Meta Verified in Brazil soon.

As the digital landscape evolves, it will be interesting to see how users respond to these changes and how Meta adapts its strategies accordingly.

Logie’s Commitment to Full Compliance with the Amazon’s Associate Program

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At Logie, your safety and security are our top priorities. We want to reassure you that the Logie platform is designed to help you create and manage your influencer website (go.shopping/@alias) and boost your Amazon Influencer growth.

This is entirely compliant with Amazon’s Terms of Service, specifically Section 5 (“Distribution of Special Links”):

5.  Distribution of Special Links Through Software and Devices 
You will not use any Program Content or Special Link, or otherwise link to an Amazon Site, on or in connection with (a) any client-side software application (e.g., a browser plug-in, helper object, toolbar, extension, component, or any other application executable or installable by an end user) on any device, including computers, mobile phones, tablets, or other handheld devices (other than Approved Mobile Applications); or (b) any television set-top box (e.g., digital video recorders, cable or satellite boxes, streaming video players, Blu-ray players, or DVD players) or Internet-enabled television (e.g., GoogleTV, Sony Bravia, Panasonic Viera Cast, or Vizio Internet Apps).

As a reliable platform, Logie strictly follows Amazon’s guidelines and prevents unethical or deceptive tactics that could harm end-users or manipulate the Amazon Associates program. We take pride in maintaining a fair, transparent, and ethical ecosystem for all our users.

What does Amazon’s section 5 entail?

Amazon implemented this section because of the following bad practices that were performed in past years by bad actors:

  1. Browser plug-ins or extensions: Some affiliates created browser extensions or plug-ins that would automatically replace other affiliates’ links with their own when a shopper clicked on an Amazon product link. This allowed them to “steal” commissions from other affiliates by taking credit for sales they did not refer to.
    Logie neither supports nor allows the use of any applications that automatically replace other affiliates’ links, ensuring fair credit for all sales referrals.

  2. Adware or malware: Some affiliates used adware or malware to force users’ devices to load Amazon pages with their affiliate links embedded, even when users did not intend to visit those pages. This would lead to more commission for the unethical affiliates while creating negative user experiences.
    Logie is completely free of malicious software that could force users to load Amazon pages with affiliate links involuntarily, preserving a positive user experience.

  3. Spamming: Some affiliates would use plugins, extensions, or tools to automatically spam forums, social media platforms, or comment sections with their affiliate links, hoping to get unsuspecting users to click through and make a purchase. This annoyed internet users and went against Amazon’s guidelines about promoting products in a relevant and non-intrusive manner.
    Logie prohibits spamming forums, social media platforms, or comment sections with affiliate links, adhering to Amazon’s guidelines of promoting products in a relevant and non-intrusive manner.

  4. Cookie stuffing: Some affiliates would use “cookie stuffing” techniques, which involved placing an Amazon affiliate tracking cookie on a user’s device without their knowledge or consent when they visited a website. This would lead to commissions earned by the unscrupulous affiliates for purchases made by that user on Amazon, even if they did not click on their affiliate link or had no connection with the affiliate.
    Logie does not use “cookie stuffing” techniques, protecting users from having Amazon affiliate tracking cookies unknowingly placed on their devices.

Amazon clearly states that section 5 doesn’t impact the software that you use to help you build or maintain your website, which is exactly what Logie does.

By adhering to Amazon’s restrictions, we support a healthy, fair, and transparent environment for the Amazon Associates Program, ensuring a consistently positive shopping experience for you and your go. Shopping website visitors.

The Logie tool is designed specifically to help you build your Amazon Influencer’s website and generate legitimate, white-hat traffic to Amazon through your go.shopping/@alias website.

As an official Amazon Ads partner, Logie is obligated to follow strict guidelines when it comes to data safety and privacy. You can read our terms of service here and our privacy policy here.

Enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re always in safe and reliable hands with Logie.

Share premium content with ‘TikTok series’

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TikTok has introduced a new feature called “Series” that is designed to provide creators with a new way to share their stories, talents, and creativity as premium content, while further deepening their connection with the TikTok community.

What is Series?

Series is a feature that will enable eligible creators to post collections of premium content behind a paywall, which viewers will purchase for access. 

One Series can include up to 80 videos, each up to 20 minutes long. This will provide a new, longer format for viewers to watch their favorite creators and content.

“We prioritize the safety of our community when introducing new features and continue working to maintain a safe and welcoming environment where creativity and expression can thrive. As with all content on TikTok, Series content must abide by our Community Guidelines,” Tiktok.

With series Creators will have the freedom to select how much their Series should cost, reflecting the value of their exclusive content. 

The issue of monetization seems to be on every platform’s mind and it is clear why, because if they don’t figure it out, migration to other apps will happen, but so far TikTok has been lagging behind

Eligibility

Creators in select regions who meet certain criteria are eligible to join Series. The eligibility criteria include:

  • Creators should be 18 years or older
  • Have an account that is at least 30 days old
  • Have at least 10,000 followers
  • Must have posted more than three public videos in the last 30 days
  • Have at least 1,000 authentic video views in the last 30 days

Creators with less than 10,000 followers but who meet the other requirements will be able to apply by providing a link to premium content they’ve previously sold on other platforms via the Creator Center in the TikTok app.

“Series is in its early stages, and we’re continuously exploring ways to improve the experience for our creator community and the way creators are rewarded. Series joins our growing range of monetization solutions as we continue to build new ways for creators to feel valued and rewarded as they inspire and engage our community. Series is currently only available to select creators with applications to join opening in the coming months. We’re looking forward to hearing feedback from our community,” said Tiktok in the announcement

TikTok creators have not been able to properly monetize their content despite the influence that the platform has. Previously, the platform has introduced the creative program beta which has still not gained the traction they had hoped, but at least they are making baby steps 

Queer inclusivity in marketing: a virtual Tiktok event

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TikTok is steadfast in its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive space for its LGBTQIA+ community.

 In this light, the platform has created a virtual event titled “TikTok Takeoff: Queer Inclusivity in Marketing” which aims to educate small businesses on enhancing queer representation and inclusivity.

Queer Inclusivity in Marketing

The event is scheduled for June 13th at 1 PM CT and according to the platform, the session aims to provide insightful perspectives on how businesses can engage and amplify queer voices authentically, not just during pride month, but year-round.

“Whether you’re a queer person or an ally, join us for this enlightening session focused on teaching small businesses how to show up authentically,” said TikTok in the announcement

The 1-hour session will be packed with advice on how to create engaging content on TikTok, and how you can make it more inclusive. There will be insights from queer-owned small businesses, and valuable contributions from industry experts at It Gets Better.

Queer-Owned Businesses Share Experiences

In this session, several queer business owners will share their experiences, success stories, and views on how brands can support the queer community.

Gefen Skolnick, Founder and CEO of Couplet Coffee, a queer woman-owned specialty coffee brand, notes,

“Our aim is to make great coffee more fun and approachable for all.” Her business now graces 350+ shelves across the US, including all World Markets and Foxtrot Markets.

Music City Creative, an LGBTQ+-owned eco-friendly print shop based in Nashville, will also join the discussion.

A Year-Round Support

The event emphasizes the importance of supporting queer-owned businesses beyond Pride month. TikTok has highlighted numerous brands that authentically embrace their queer identity, utilize the platform to build relationships, share personal experiences, and widen their audience.

Some of these brands include @CTOAN Co., a queer Black-owned candle business; Good Light Cosmetics, a gender-inclusive beauty brand; and Very Gay Paint, a muralist company centered around queerness and colorful designs.

“Shop small and support these businesses year round!” urges TikTok,

The session will be open to everyone and users can secure a spot by RSVPing. A live Q&A segment will also be included, allowing participants to interact and learn from the #QueerTok experts. 

This session is a good opportunity to learn from the community and if you are a creator, it is a good way to find out how else to be inclusive.

Maybe there is a creative angle you haven’t considered, Register Here

TikTok Canada Honors National Indigenous History Month with #IndigenousTikTok

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Indigenous

In observance of National Indigenous History Month, TikTok Canada is showing its appreciation for the Indigenous Peoples’ enduring and modern connections to their lands. 

In an official statement, TikTok Canada expressed its gratitude towards Indigenous creators, artists, and small business owners for choosing their platform to narrate their stories, impart their knowledge, represent their culture, and spread joy.

Indigenous Voices Resounding on TikTok

TikTok Canada highlighted that creators from the #IndigenousTikTok community inject the platform with authenticity, creativity, and knowledge. 

The platform has emphasized the importance of their first-hand storytelling in reclaiming their identities, advocating for Indigenous youth, and exhibiting the resilience of their communities.

“A significant aspect of our platform is its ability to facilitate a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture and heritage, challenging misconceptions and breaking down barriers,” a spokesperson for TikTok Canada shared. “Our mission is to amplify and support the voices that tirelessly work towards sharing the beauty, history, and heritage of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples,” said Tiktok in their announcement

#IndigenousTikTok Visionary Voices List

As part of its commitment to the #IndigenousTikTok community, TikTok Canada is introducing the inaugural #IndigenousTikTok Visionary Voices List. 

This list will recognize creators and small businesses that have made a positive impact both within and beyond the TikTok platform.

Furthermore, TikTok will feature an in-app #IndigenousTikTok content hub to highlight Visionary Voices and other members of the community. This initiative aims to enhance Indigenous visibility and to celebrate inspiring Indigenous voices.

Unveiling the 2023 #IndigenousTikTok Visionary Voices

TikTok’s 2023 #IndigenousTikTok Visionary Voices list will spotlight nine Indigenous creators who have leveraged the platform to educate, entertain, and advocate for the Indigenous community.

“These creators are sharing their stories in their own unique voices, thereby making a lasting impact on and off our platform,” TikTok Canada added.

The Visionary Voices comprise of exceptional creators, industry disruptors, and small business owners, each with a compelling and unique narrative.

Indigenous community members on TikTok span a broad spectrum of talents, from performers, powwow dancers, and artists to makers, style icons, oral storytellers, and writers. 

In line with its commitment to amplifying these contributions, TikTok’s #IndigenousTikTok in-app programming hub will spotlight creators and organizations that demonstrate the community’s rich cultural heritage, creativity, impact, and ongoing activism throughout June.

TikTok’s statement further emphasized “We acknowledge the immense power of being able to tell your own stories. We are honored that so many Indigenous creators, artists, and small business owners come to TikTok to reclaim their identities, educate, advocate, and inspire. We remain committed to providing a safe, inclusive platform for these creators to share their stories, and we look forward to celebrating their unceasing efforts to bring about change and inspire others through their unique and inspiring journeys.”

About Logie

Logie streamlines influencer discovery, product distribution, and content performance to drive measurable sales for eCommerce brands. We also equip content creators with the smart tools, brand partnerships, and commission opportunities they need to turn content into income.

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