Bonded Bitesize – Your Midweek Roundup

Threads Will Test Making the ‘Following’ Feed the Default

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a test allowing Threads users to set their “Following” feed as the default, a departure from the AI-driven “For You” feeds that boost engagement on Facebook and Instagram. While AI recommendations have revitalised these platforms, rivals like Bluesky and X prioritise “Following” feeds, fostering real-time interaction and user growth. Meta’s move aims to help creators build followings and counter Bluesky’s growth but risks lowering app engagement by reducing reliance on AI-curated content. This shift underscores Meta’s response to rising competition in the social media space.

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Australia Pushes Ahead With Teen Social Media Ban

The Australian government is advancing a bill to ban under-16s from social media, despite widespread criticism over its practicality and impact. Platforms would be responsible for enforcement, but inconsistent detection systems and exemptions for apps like messaging services leave significant loopholes. Critics argue the ban is unenforceable and unlikely to address the issue effectively, as teens may find ways to bypass restrictions or migrate to alternative platforms. Research on social media’s impact on teens is mixed, with some studies highlighting benefits for connection and others noting potential harms. Experts suggest alternatives like cybersecurity education or app store-level controls as more practical solutions. While the government frames the bill as protecting teens, it is widely seen as rushed and impractical, failing to address the complexities of the digital landscape.

Google faces £7 Billion UK Class Action Over Search Monopoly

Google faces a £7 billion ($8.8 billion) class action lawsuit in the UK, accused of abusing its search dominance to harm consumers and stifle competition. The UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal has allowed the case, led by consumer advocate Nikki Stopford, to proceed. The lawsuit alleges Google forced Android manufacturers to preinstall Google Search and Chrome, paid Apple billions to secure its default search engine status, and inflated ad prices, indirectly raising consumer costs. Google defends its practices, claiming its dominance reflects consumer preference, not anti competitive behaviour. This case adds to global scrutiny, including a US DOJ lawsuit targeting its browser dominance and EU antitrust actions. The outcome could reshape Google’s operations and challenge Big Tech monopolies.

Google Ads Creative Studio to Sunset in Q1 2025

Google will phase out Ads Creative Studio by March 2025, focusing on new growth areas and partnerships with creative agencies. As of October 28, new accounts can no longer be created. From January 17, creating new projects will be disabled, and the platform will fully shut down by March 2025. Advertisers can still edit and export existing projects, add new assets, and engage third-party partners for YouTube customisations. For Display ads, users can continue using Studio or explore other tools. Marketers should begin transitioning their workflows now to maintain creative efficiency.

Google Search Console Recommendations Now Fully Live

Google has fully rolled out its “Recommendations” feature in Google Search Console, which offers optimisation tips for websites to improve their presence on Google Search. These suggestions are based on data collected by Search Console and cover areas like indexing, crawling, and serving content. Recommendations are updated regularly and may expire or change. Users will only see them if Google has relevant suggestions for their website. While the feature can provide valuable insights, site owners should evaluate whether the recommendations are appropriate for their specific needs.

YouTube Shorts’ Dream Screen Feature Can Now Generate AI Video Backgrounds

YouTube has expanded its Dream Screen feature for Shorts, now allowing creators to generate AI-powered video backgrounds using Google DeepMind’s Veo model. Previously, Dream Screen only supported image backgrounds. Users can create 1080p video clips in various cinematic styles by typing text prompts like “candy landscape” or “magical forest” and selecting an animation style. This feature enables creators to place themselves in dynamic video settings or craft animated Shorts openings. YouTube plans to eventually allow creators to generate standalone six-second video clips. Currently, the feature is available in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, offering a unique tool not yet available on TikTok.

Instagram Takes On Snapchat With New Location Sharing Feature

Instagram is introducing a new feature that allows users to share their live location via direct messages (DMs) for up to one hour. This move positions Instagram against services like Apple’s Find My and Snapchat’s Snap Map. Users can share their location with one person or in a group chat, and the location is visible only within that chat and cannot be forwarded. The feature aims to help coordinate meetups or find friends in crowded spaces. Additionally, Instagram is adding a new option for users to assign custom nicknames to people in their DM chats and is launching 17 new sticker packs.