MONDAY MORNING LEARNING – JANUARY 2025

Published on 20 Jan '25

Instagram Integrates Movie Gen AI for In-App Editing

Instagram began testing Meta’s AI-powered Movie Gen tool inside the app, allowing creators to auto-edit videos, swap backgrounds, change outfits, and enhance visuals using simple prompts.
By embedding generative tools natively, Instagram empowers users to produce professional-quality video content faster—without needing third-party apps. It’s part of Meta’s broader push to become a creative hub, not just a social network.

Source: https://www.tripepismith.com/smntk-january-2025/


Bluesky & X Launch Dedicated Vertical Video Feeds

Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) each rolled out dedicated vertical video feeds, catering to TikTok-style swiping experiences. These feeds surface popular short-form videos by category, such as sports, tech, or humor.
As TikTok faces growing scrutiny, competitors are racing to fill the short-form void. These updates aim to capture the attention of creators and viewers seeking alternative platforms with immersive video discovery.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/20/24347692/bluesky-x-new-video-features-feeds-tiktok-uncertainties


Instagram Expands Reels to 3 Minutes + “With Friends” Feed

Instagram extended Reels’ maximum duration from 90 seconds to 3 minutes, giving creators more space for tutorials, storytelling, and cinematic content. A new “With Friends” feed also lets users explore Reels that friends have liked or commented on.
This community-driven discovery feature deepens user engagement and encourages content sharing beyond the algorithmic feed—bringing a more social layer back to social media.

Source: https://www.socialbee.com/blog/social-media-news/


WhatsApp Tests Sharing Status Updates to Instagram

WhatsApp began testing a feature that allows users to share their WhatsApp Status directly to Instagram Stories via Meta’s Accounts Center.
This cross-posting function makes it easier for users and creators to maintain presence across platforms without duplicating content—ideal for unified brand messaging and influencer campaigns.

Source: https://www.socialbee.com/blog/social-media-news/


X Partners with Visa to Launch “X Money Account”

X has partnered with Visa to test a new feature called “X Money Account”, which aims to bring peer-to-peer payments, digital wallets, and financial services into the X ecosystem.
This move aligns with Elon Musk’s ambition to turn X into a full-service “everything app,” combining content, communication, and commerce into one seamless user journey.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/x-rolls-out-dedicated-video-tab-for-us-users-2025-1