MONDAY MORNING LEARNING – 12 MAY 2025
Published on 12 May '25
Instagram Emphasizes DMs & Shares Over Likes
Instagram creators are increasingly prioritizing shares via DMs as the most impactful engagement signal, reflecting a shift from visible likes to private shares. According to industry experts, content optimized for shareability—especially early emotional hooks—drives algorithmic reach, helping posts spread across personal networks.
This change encourages brands to focus on relatable, moment-worthy videos that resonate with individuals rather than just appealing to metrics.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/inside-instagram-meme-empire-doing-things-strategy-dms-2025-5
Instagram ‘Edits’ App Adds New Features for Reels
Instagram’s standalone Edits app gained a new wave of creative tools—more advanced transitions, green-screen effects, and real-time audio editing at the start of May.
These updates help creators refine Reels workflows entirely on mobile, removing the need for external editing software, and enable more polished, on-trend content production that appeals to evolving audience expectations.
Source: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/may-2025-social-media-platform-updates-3sixfive-tnwce
WhatsApp Boosts Channels with Video Notes & Reaction Emojis
WhatsApp enhanced its Channels feature, introducing short video notes and a broader palette of reaction emojis.
Admins can now record voice or video updates, making announcements more vivid and engaging. Followers can respond with nuanced reactions, increasing community interactivity and emotional resonance.
This enriches the channel experience, giving creators and businesses new ways to connect emotionally and personally.
Source: https://www.theezeragency.com/post/social-media-industry-news-may-2025
Pinterest Expands Visual Search to Teen Self‑Expression
Pinterest touted an updated Visual Search Experience that helps users discover style ideas without conforming to trends.
Users can browse curated visuals based on personal rather than algorithmic preferences—supporting the platform’s push toward individual expression, especially among teens and Gen Z.
This encourages brands to consider how product imagery aligns with personal aesthetics.
Source: https://www.jckonline.com/editorial-article/social-media-updates-may-25/