Australia Bans Under-16s from Social Media Apps
The Australian Government has passed a new law banning users under 16 from accessing social media platforms. The controversial bill, aimed at bolstering online safety for younger users, has sparked debate among experts and the public alike.
Key Details of the Law:
- Platforms must restrict users under 16 and prove they’ve implemented “reasonable steps” to enforce the rule.
- Messaging apps, online games, and educational/health platforms are exempt, as is YouTube.
- No government-issued ID will be required to prove age.
- Penalties for non-compliance could reach $AUD49.5 million (~$US32.2 million).
- Parents and young users who violate the rules will not face penalties.
The law is set to take effect in 12 months, giving platforms time to adapt. However, many child safety experts have questioned its efficacy, with some warning it could push young users toward less regulated and riskier online spaces. An open letter from 140 child safety experts emphasized the value of social platforms in young people’s development, urging a re-think of the policy.
While the government champions the initiative as “world-leading,” its practical impact and unintended consequences remain a contentious issue.
Instagram Introduces ‘Collage’ for Stories
Instagram has unveiled a new collage feature for Stories, allowing users to combine images from their camera roll into creative layouts. Unlike the rigid templates in the existing Layout tool, this update offers more flexibility for unique visual designs.
Instagram has also been testing collages in group chats, indicating the platform’s ongoing focus on collaborative and visually engaging features to drive user interaction.
Instagram Removes Hashtag Following
In a move to combat spam and improve content relevance, Instagram has removed the ability to follow hashtags. Posts tied to followed hashtags will no longer appear in users’ feeds.
Why This Matters:
- Hashtag spamming, where users add irrelevant tags to gain visibility, has been a long-standing issue.
- By eliminating hashtag following, Instagram aims to reduce clutter and focus on connecting users with high-quality content based on interests and engagement patterns.
While hashtags still play a role in search and Explore pages, this change could signify a step toward their reduced importance in social media algorithms.
YouTube Offers Tips to Align Content with CTV Trends
With connected TV (CTV) viewing becoming a dominant way to consume YouTube, the platform has shared tips for creators to optimize their content for the big screen.
YouTube’s Recommendations:
- Use analytics to track CTV engagement and adjust content strategies accordingly.
- Create for high-quality playback, leveraging 4K capabilities and polished editing.
- Optimize thumbnails for supersized TV screens.
- Focus on episodic content to build loyal, returning audiences.
- Update your Channel page with high-resolution visuals to make an impact.
Given that YouTube users now watch over a billion hours of content on TVs daily, these insights are critical for creators looking to tap into this growing trend.
