9th Week Roundup: Instagram Introduces New Safety Measures, ‘Create’ A Game Changer for Content Creators? And More!

Explore the most recent advancements in our roundup, featuring Instagram’s measures against scams, YouTube’s innovative ‘Create’ application, Google’s structured data carousels, Meta’s introduction of AR glasses, and Instagram’s promising ‘Friend Map’ feature. All of these initiatives are designed to elevate user experience and ensure safety.

 

Instagram’s New In-Stream Alerts Combat Scams

Instagram recently implemented additional safety measures to safeguard users against potential scams. These measures involve notifying users when suspicious profiles attempt to connect, as well as alerting them when unfamiliar accounts tag or mention them. The leading social media marketing company in Mumbai say the primary goal of these initiatives is to increase awareness about potential risks and prompt users to review and modify their privacy settings promptly.

By proactively informing users about potential scams and encouraging them to take immediate action, Instagram aims to bolster user security and prevent misuse. These in-stream safety alerts address the issue of users overlooking the importance of updating their settings by providing timely reminders and explanations, ultimately enhancing overall user safety on the platform.

Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-adds-new-in-stream-safety-alerts-to-help-improve-awareness-of-sca/708954/

 

YouTube’s Enhanced Video Editing App ‘Create’: A Game Changer for Content Creators

YouTube has expanded the availability of its innovative video editing app, “Create,” which is specifically designed for creating Shorts. Users in various countries, such as Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and more, now have access to this free tool. “YouTube Create” offers a range of editing options, including audio clean-up, auto-captions, filters, effects, transitions, and access to royalty-free songs and sound effects. This app simplifies the video editing process by presenting all features on a single screen, similar to CapCut.

By allowing direct publishing to YouTube for both Shorts and long-form content, “YouTube Create” offers creators a comprehensive toolkit to create outstanding videos. Although currently only available on Android, its expansion to new regions holds the promise of empowering creators worldwide to produce high-quality content effortlessly.

Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/youtube-expands-access-create-mobile-video-editing-app/708809/

 

Enhance Visibility with Google’s Structured Data Carousels

Google has introduced new structured data carousels (beta) in Google Search to enhance user experience and offer more detailed search results. The experts from the leading SEO company in Mumbai say this beta feature, also referred to as host carousels, enables users to horizontally browse through a list-like rich result featuring entities from a specific website. Initially focusing on hotels, restaurants, vacation rentals, products, and events, each carousel tile showcases key details like price, rating, and images taken from the relevant site.

Utilizing this beta carousel for businesses, products, or event websites could improve visibility in search results and boost click-through rates. However, successful integration necessitates following Google’s guidelines and monitoring performance metrics to assess its impact. By embracing structured data carousels as Google refines its search capabilities, businesses have the chance to differentiate themselves and attract more organic traffic.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/new-google-structured-data-carousels-beta-438027

 

Transparency Concerns Surrounding Google’s Performance Max Campaigns

Google is under scrutiny as advertisers raise concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the performance data of Performance Max (PMax) campaigns. Advertisers are questioning Google’s motives, suspecting that it prioritizes automation over transparency due to its deliberate withholding of channel-specific key performance indicators (KPIs) for PMax campaigns.

In response to these concerns, Google defends its decision by stating that channel-specific reporting could potentially be misleading. Instead, Google emphasizes the real-time decision-making capabilities of PMax, which are based on predicted cost-efficient conversions. However, advertisers like Julie F Bacchini remain skeptical and emphasize the importance of transparency to ensure that campaign decisions align with the interests of advertisers.

Advertisers are actively pursuing a deeper understanding of their campaigns’ effectiveness in order to minimize the potential risks that come with relying solely on AI-driven optimization. In light of the growing significance of transparency, advertisers are pushing for access to comprehensive performance data. This access enables them to make well-informed decisions and protect their brands’ interests, especially in the face of Google’s emphasis on automation and its own objectives.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/google-performance-max-channel-specific-kpi-438024

 

Google’s New PPC Ad Format

Google is currently facing scrutiny as it tests a new PPC ad format but fails to provide advertisers with essential information for measuring their campaigns. Despite Google confirming the testing, advertisers are left in the dark regarding the official name, functionality, and impact of the ad format on auction dynamics and metrics.

The lack of transparency surrounding this new ad format has drawn criticism from industry experts. Advertisers express their frustration with Google’s approach, emphasizing the importance of clear explanations and insights into the changes. With concerns about the reliance on AI-driven optimization and the absence of transparency, advertisers are struggling to comprehend and adapt to Google’s ever-changing ad landscape. The leading SEO company in Mumbai says as Google continues to experiment with different formats, advertisers are advocating for increased transparency to ensure they can make informed decisions and effectively manage their campaigns.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/google-pilots-ppc-ad-format-437986

 

Google Chrome Updates Search Suggestions

Google Chrome is implementing enhancements to its search suggestions, offering users more insightful recommendations. With the release of updates, Chrome’s search box will now showcase the “people also search for” section, displaying what others are searching for. This addition aims to enhance user engagement and discovery. Additionally, image thumbnails will be included with certain search suggestions, particularly for shopping categories and products, aiding users in visualizing their search queries.

Although these features are not entirely new, their integration into Chrome’s search interface demonstrates Google’s dedication to improving the user experience. For website owners, these updates could have an impact on search visibility and traffic from Google. It is important to monitor these changes closely, as they may affect website performance in search results. This could present opportunities for increased exposure or require adjustments to maintain visibility. It is crucial to remain vigilant and assess the effects on your site’s search traffic, adapting strategies accordingly.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/google-chrome-updates-search-suggestions-438009

 

How Google’s Search Generative Experience Impacting Ads

A recent study has explored the influence of Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) on various types of ads and their positioning within the search engine results pages (SERPs). SE Ranking’s research has uncovered important findings, indicating that ads tend to be more commonly found at the bottom of SERPs, regardless of the presence of SGE snippets. Interestingly, ads at the top of the SERP are more likely to be paired with SGE snippets in comparison to shopping ads, which often appear above the SGE snippet.

Understanding how SGE impacts ad placement is essential for marketers and businesses looking to optimize their advertising strategies. The best SEO company says that SE Ranking’s in-depth analysis across different industries provides valuable insights into trends in ad positioning, underscoring the importance of flexible marketing approaches in light of Google’s ever-changing search environment.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/search-generative-experience-impacting-ads-437989

 

Google’s Removal of “View All” Option in Local Search Results Sparks Concern

The recent removal of the “more” or “view all” option in the local pack of search results by Google has sparked speculation about whether it was intentional or a bug. Previously, users could access additional local listings beyond the initial three that were displayed. This change has left many puzzled, leading to discussions about its implications for user experience and the visibility of local businesses.

Although it is still unclear whether this alteration was deliberate, the absence of the “view all” button has received criticism from local SEO experts such as Joy Hawkins. These experts have emphasized the importance of this feature for users and small businesses. After a period of uncertainty, the feature has been restored, highlighting the need for clear communication from Google regarding updates to search functionalities. Given the significant role that local search plays in consumer decision-making, any modifications to the search results can have a substantial impact on user behaviour and the online presence of businesses.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/google-removes-option-to-see-more-local-results-in-the-search-results-437932

 

Bing Deep Search Set to Resume Testing: What to Expect

Microsoft is preparing to resume the testing of Bing’s Deep Search features after temporarily halting its initial trials earlier this month. Deep Search, which aims to provide a more in-depth search experience on the web, combines Bing’s search functionalities with GPT-4 technology to produce thorough search results.

After facing challenges related to popularity and technical issues, Microsoft is focused on resolving caching issues and enhancing the reliability of Deep Search before reintroducing it for broader testing. Mikhail Parakhin of Microsoft recognized the unforeseen interest in Deep Search beyond its original research objectives, underscoring the importance of making necessary adjustments to meet user needs.

The utilization of GPT-4 in Deep Search will revolutionize search queries, providing users with more accurate and comprehensive results. Microsoft’s reintroduction of Deep Search on Bing promises to enhance the search experience by uncovering hidden content that may not be found through traditional search methods.

Read more: https://www.seroundtable.com/bing-deep-search-flighting-36976.html

 

Controversy Surrounding Google’s AI Content Rewriting Tool

Google’s experimental content rewriting tool, created to aid small publishers in repurposing news content, has faced strong opposition from the publishing community. The tool, which aims to condense and redistribute news articles, has been heavily criticized for potentially devaluing original content and compromising journalistic integrity.

Although Google’s initiative may provide small publishers with a chance to gain more inbound links and compete with larger websites, there are valid concerns regarding the ethical implications and impact on content quality. Detractors argue that the automated nature of the tool resembles article spinning, leading to doubts about its contribution to the deterioration of content and the long-term viability of online publishing.

As responses continue to come in from journalists and industry experts, the discussion escalates regarding the future of online content creation and the impact of AI on shaping digital publishing environments. The question of whether Google’s tool signifies advancement or presents a challenge to journalistic integrity continues to be a contentious topic among publishers and content creators.

Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-testing-ai-tool-that-finds-rewrites-quality-content/509912/

 

Google Business Profile Websites Set to Shutdown: What Business Owners Need to Know

Businesses that have websites created through Google Business Profiles (GBP) are facing an upcoming deadline, as Google is set to close down these sites by March 2024. Following the shutdown, individuals visiting GBP websites will be automatically redirected to the corresponding Business Profile until June 10, 2024, offering a temporary fix.

To determine if their website is impacted, business proprietors can conduct a search for their business name on Google and review the contact section of their Business Profile. Google is suggesting alternative website builders like Wix, Squarespace, WordPress, and others. Nevertheless, users should exercise caution regarding privacy issues and performance problems when choosing a new platform. Furthermore, businesses with Google Ads campaigns that are linked to GBP websites must promptly update their website links to prevent any disruptions in their advertising endeavours.

Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/websites-created-with-google-business-profiles-to-shut-down-in-march/509794/

 

Google Enhances Ad Placement Control Amidst Search Partner Network Controversy

The experts from the best SEO company say that Google has made significant updates to its Search Partner Network (SPN) in response to feedback from the Adalytics report. These updates provide advertisers with better insights and control over ad placement. Starting on March 4, Performance Max users will have access to impression-level placement reporting for SPN sites, enabling more transparency and targeted ad placement strategies.

Google has taken action in light of the Adalytics report’s findings on ads being displayed on unsuitable non-Google websites. Advertisers can now exclude specific placements such as SPN, YouTube, and display ads at the account level. While Google refutes the claims made in the report, they have temporarily allowed Performance Max users to opt out of SPN inventory until March 1. With this option soon to be eliminated, advertisers will need to depend on Google’s improved control measures to protect their brand image and ensure that ad placements are in line with their values and goals across the vast SPN ecosystem.

Read more: https://searchengineland.com/google-search-partner-network-update-control-437948

 

Meta Set to Unveil Next-Gen AR Glasses at Connect Conference

The experts from the leading social media marketing company in Mumbai say that Meta, is preparing to showcase its latest advancements in augmented reality (AR) technology by introducing its next-generation AR glasses prototype at the upcoming Connect conference. Despite the attention surrounding Apple’s Vision Pro, Meta is set to present its own AR glasses project, codenamed Orion, which boasts significant advancements in AR technology.

The presentation is intended to showcase Meta’s progress in AR innovation, even though the glasses will not be available for purchase this year. With Meta’s CTO emphasizing the device’s advanced stage of development, the company is concentrating on improving the product’s affordability in preparation for a consumer release by 2027. As the tech giants compete for supremacy in the AR industry, Meta’s strategic decision demonstrates its dedication to remaining competitive and shaping the future of AR wearables, establishing itself as a major player in the ever-changing tech landscape.

Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/meta-plans-showcase-next-gen-ar-glasses-later-year/708660/

 

Instagram’s New ‘Friend Map’ Feature: Fostering IRL Connections and Marketing Opportunities

Instagram is currently in the process of testing a new feature called ‘Friend Map’, similar to Snap Map. This feature allows users to track the whereabouts of their friends and view their past locations through location-tagged posts and stories. Users have the option to share their live location and previous visits, with the ability to control which friends can see their map. In addition, Instagram is contemplating the inclusion of a notes feature for location-based comments. This feature, reminiscent of Snapchat‘s map, has the potential to foster more engagement and real-life connections among users.

For marketers, particularly those with physical establishments, the Friend Map feature offers a potential opportunity to showcase their businesses and attract customers through location-based marketing. Although Instagram has confirmed that they are currently conducting internal testing, there is no definitive timeline for its official release. Nonetheless, it is certainly a feature worth monitoring due to its potential implications for marketing.

Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-marketing-friend-map-live-location-display/708567/

 

Conclusion of the Roundup

In this blog roundup, Instagram is experimenting with ‘Friend Map’ to foster real-life connections. Google is discontinuing Business Profile websites, Meta is preparing to reveal AR glasses, and Google is improving ad placement controls. Transparency and user safety continue to be top priorities in these various advancements. If you like this blog check out our previous blog how to master linkedIn ads in 2024.