Breaking the feed

Instagram Updates  

Feed refresh 🌟

It’s unlikely that you have missed the latest Instagram update but just in case: Instagram has shifted its profile grid to a vertical-aligned format, better suited to Reels and the app’s vertical content trend. This change has disrupted carefully curated grids but Instagram is introducing tools to re-order thumbnails and adjust Highlights for better customization.

Algorithm Insights 👀 

Instagram chief Adam Mosseri has confirmed that the three key factors driving the algorithm are watch time, likes, and sends. Watch time measures how long our audience engages with content, while likes boost reach among followers. Sends are vital for reaching new audiences, as they signal shareable content with broader appeal. 

Instagram to Recommend Longer Videos 📹 

Instagram will now be recommending 3-minute Reels just as much as shorter ones. Previously, the platform advised against longer Reels due to lower engagement. Now, Instagram says that users are now looking for long-form content. This change aims to offer creators more flexibility, but we are currently unsure whether users will embrace longer Reels. 

2025 LinkedIn Insights  

Video Content Performance 📷 

Video content on LinkedIn generates 1200% more shares than text and images combined. This highlights the power of video in driving engagement, visibility, and conversations on the platform. 

Thought Leadership Impact 🧠 

It has also been reported that 73% of decision-makers view thought leadership as a more trustworthy indicator of an organization’s capabilities compared to traditional marketing methods. 

AI Adoption 🤖

B2B marketers using AI report increased productivity (40%), faster content creation (39%), and better campaign ideas (30%).

Good to know  

Meta’s Bonus Scheme 💰

Meta is taking advantage of the drama around TikTok by rolling out its "Breakthrough Bonus" program to get TikTok creators move across to Instagram and Facebook. Creators can earn up to $5,000 in bonuses during their first 90 days if they start posting original content exclusively on Meta’s platforms. Plus, they’ll get access to extra monetization tools, free Meta Verified subscriptions for a year, and even new profile features that show off their follower counts from other platforms.  

TikTok Latest 📰 

 As we are all aware, the situation with TikTok in the US is constantly changing so I thought I would share the latest:  
TikTok is technically banned, but thanks to an extension from Trump, it’s still up and running… for now. The problem is that extension might not actually be legal since the law banning TikTok is already in effect. App stores like Apple and Google are staying cautious and refusing to list it due to potential fines. So basically, TikTok’s operational, but it’s not in app stores, and its future is still super shaky. 

If it ever feels overwhelming to keep up with the constant changes on these platforms, feel free to reach out. Together, Optix and I can help you achieve your goals through your social media platforms!

Alternatively, if you find my summary newsletters helpful, I’ll be posting them regularly to make it easier for you to stay informed about the ever-evolving world of social media!

See you next week!

Rikki Cain

(Social Media Manager)