SUMMARY
This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
In this weekly list, we compile the tweaks and changes you should know about what for a lot of us is our most common point-of-interaction with technology: social media. From Facebook to Reddit, these platforms aren’t static; they’re constantly changing. We keep track of the most important and most intriguing changes here. Check them out below!
The past week, Facebook continued to expand its platform by delving into television-like service, and took another step against fake news. In the realm of online game broadcasting, Microsoft’s Mixer and Twitch go head to head with updates for their respective platforms. Check out the rest of the updates for the week below!
1) Facebook blocks ads from pages that share fake news
Facebook has taken another step to combat the propagation of fake news. Facebook Pages that continuously link to and share news that have been marked as ‘false’ will no longer be able to run their advertisements on Facebook. Facebook also says that this move should help “disrupt economic incentives to create false news.” (READ: Facebook to reject ads from pages touting ‘fake news’)
2) Facebook Watch rolls out in the U.S.
Facebook’s attempt to overthrow streaming giants like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video just went live this week in the United States. Facebook Watch features exclusive content from partner producers, and promotes shows to users based on what their friends are watching. Creator and viewer engagement will be some of the cornerstones of Facebook Watch as it aims to build fandoms for its shows.
3) Instagram bulks up with new features
Instagram brought us two new features this week: new face filters for the Instagram camera and the much-needed portrait and landscape options for multiple uploads. The four new filters follow a weather theme to suit your current mood: happy sun, sad raincloud, angry thunderstorm, and laidback sun.
Meanwhile, users no longer have to cram their photos into a square when uploading multiple photos. The latest app update, being rolled out for both iOS and Android, has added the option to upload portrait or landscape photos in Instagram albums. (READ: Instagram now allows portrait, landscape photos in albums)
4) Giphy now has official GIFs from partner brands, enables viewcount
Giphy has started partnering with brands and companies to deliver GIFs to the mainstream. Users can now gather GIFs straight from artists and official partners such as the NBA, for one. The league now has its own official channel on Giphy where it showcases basketball-related GIFs sourced by the NBA itself. Giphy has also made added viewcount data on a GIF’s page to offer some insight as to how popular every GIF on Giphy is.
5) Twitch extensions
Gamers on Twitch will soon have access to more robust streaming tools through its library of extensions. The current available extensions are presented as “interactive overlays” that allow audiences to engage with the host in various ways, including monetization. New third-party extensions will also be made available to users that can be activated via a soon-to-be-released extension manager.
6) Microsoft Mixer goes mobile
Microsoft’s answer to Twitch, Mixer, boasts some updates this week as well. On August 31, the guys behind Xbox took Mixer Create out of beta and officially released it on iOS and Android, allowing users to stream their mobile games. The new app also lets up to four users co-stream from mobile, PC, or an Xbox console. Standard vlogging and chatting features are included, making it easier for users on the go to stay connected with their communities. – Rappler.com
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