This week, Facebook is updating its News Feed algorithm to limit the amount of link spam. In the end, Facebook hopes to discourage brands from publishing misleading content. Meanwhile, Instagram Stories now allows for photo and video reactions. The hope is to create more conversational engagement in Stories. Think along the lines of ‘actions speak louder than words’.

More details on why this matters, and what else is happening in social media below.

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Facebook Announces News Feed Algorithm Changes to Limit Link Spam

Facebook has announced a News Feed algorithm update which will limit the reach of content shared by profiles which regularly post a heap of links in quick succession. The goal is to reduce the reach and impact of misleading content on the platform.
Why does this matter?
For users or brands that like to share a lot of content in rapid time, brands will need to monitor the sources and publishing times closely. Facebook will not ban users outright, but will limit their reach.

Instagram Stories Now Allows Users to Reply with Photo and Video

Instagram has updated its Stories feature with the ability to reply to stories with either photo or video. All creative tools found in Instagram such as the camera, filters, Boomerang, rewind and stickers are available.
Why does this matter?
On the surface the update may not seem like a big deal. However, it is likely to help increase the conversational engagement of Stories. The whole ‘actions speak louder than words’ phrase comes to mind here. A text reply is nice, but a quick selfie reaction speaks louder.

Snapchat Allows Users To Add Links, Voice Filters and Backdrops to Snaps

Snapchat is breaking their long-standing “no links” rule. Using Snapchat’s new internal browser, users can attach a website to a Snap that friends can swipe up to open. Previously, only ad campaigns and Discover content could include links.
Why does this matter?
Among the additional new features, Snapchat also updated the app with Backdrops that let you cut out an object from your Snap and voice filters. Instagram already allows verified users with ten thousand followers add links, but we’ll see how long before Instagram allows everyone to now.

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