Instagram hands creators a playbook for going viral

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Instagram hands creators a playbook for going viral

Instagram just launched a new feature called best practices, designed to help creators and businesses optimize their content for maximum success—straight from the platform itself.

Why it matters: When creators thrive, so does Instagram. This new tool gives creators direct insights into how to game the algorithm, something that’s often been shrouded in mystery. It could even push other platforms to follow suit, providing creators with insider knowledge on how to boost their engagement.

What’s inside: Best practices is available through Instagram’s professional dashboard and offers personalized advice on making, sharing, and monetizing content. The tips range from basics like “track long-term follower growth” and “post consistently,” to platform-specific pointers. For example, Instagram now suggests that Reels over 90 seconds are less likely to be recommended to new users—hinting at the platform’s continued focus on ultra-short-form content.

What it means: Instagram’s priorities are always shifting, and best practices gives creators a glimpse into what’s hot right now. With “views” and “shares” now the key metrics for success, it’s clear that Instagram is chasing TikTok-like virality. Expect creators to lean into these recommendations to stay ahead of the curve and boost their content’s reach.

As Instagram keeps evolving, best practices provides a roadmap to help creators stay relevant and game the algorithm. The push for shorter Reels shows that the platform is prioritizing quick, shareable content. Don’t be surprised if you see creators following these tips to a T in their quest to go viral.

YouTube’s latest moves

Shrinking Play Buttons, background listening, and AI that summarizes your videos…

YouTube just rolled out some key updates that are going to affect creators big and small. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or trying to keep your audience hooked, these changes are worth keeping on your radar. Here's what's new:

YouTube’s Play Buttons got downsized, and creators aren’t thrilled: If you’re chasing that 100K or 1M subscriber milestone, brace yourself—the iconic Play Button awards have shrunk. YouTube says it’s all about making the awards more “sustainable,” but the new plaques are 30% smaller and way lighter. In fact, the new 1M plaque is the same size as the old 100K one. So, while it’s still a flex, it just might not weigh as much on your trophy shelf.

YouTube TV might let you listen even when you can’t watch: In a move that could totally change how we use YouTube TV, Google is testing background playback for live TV. This means you could keep listening to your shows or live sports commentary even when your phone is locked or you’ve switched to another app. It’s not official yet, but if you’re the type to multitask, this feature could be a game changer.

Your favorite tracks disappeared, but they’re back now: For a hot minute, YouTube had to pull down some major tracks from artists like Adele, Nirvana, and Kendrick Lamar due to a licensing battle with SESAC. But no worries—the deal’s been sorted, and the songs are back. Crisis averted, but it’s a reminder that even the biggest platform can have hiccups with music rights.

AI just got smarter on YouTube: Google’s NotebookLM just dropped a new feature that could seriously level up how you interact with YouTube content. The AI tool can now summarize long videos by analyzing their transcripts, giving you clickable topics and even linking you directly to specific moments. Whether you’re a creator or a viewer, it’s a faster way to cut through the noise and get straight to what matters.

Creator notes 📝

Read: Twitch’s BibleThump will soon go to emote heaven (The Verge)

Watch: Are we experiencing the death of social media (TikTok: @nicky.readon)

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