If you’re a social media manager, you may be in need of a hug this week. So many changes are happening, from Instagram’s profile grid update to the ongoing TikTok ban discussions in the US and Facebook’s ever-evolving algorithms. If you work in marketing and need guidance on the latest trends, you’re in the right place!
What’s Changed?
Instagram has officially rolled out a major change to its profile grid layout, moving away from its iconic square format to rectangles. Instagram Chief Adam Mosseri announced the update on his Instagram Story, following months of testing since August 2024.
“I know some of you really like your squares. And square photos are sort of the heritage of Instagram. But at this point, most of what’s uploaded, both photos and videos, are vertical in their orientation.” — Adam Mosseri via Instagram
This change aligns with Instagram’s push to prioritise vertical content, which has become the dominant format for user uploads.
Impact on Creators
For creators and artists, Instagram is more than just a social platform—it’s a crucial tool for engagement and self-promotion. The transition to a rectangular grid means:
Grid layouts may appear misaligned: If your profile relies on a uniform design, this change may disrupt the visual harmony of your posts.
Increased content visibility: Vertical photos and videos now take up more space on your profile, which may enhance the visibility of your content.
Creative adjustments required: Now is the perfect time to rethink your Instagram strategy and adapt to the new format.
TikTok's Ongoing Uncertainty
TikTok continues to face turbulence in the US, with a recent executive order granting the platform a 75-day extension to comply with regulations that require its sale or potential ban.
President Donald Trump, who initially sought to ban the platform in 2020, has now reconsidered his stance after using TikTok himself. He has proposed a potential 50-50 partnership between the United States and TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, though specific details remain unclear.
Meanwhile, TikTok briefly ceased operations for American users due to a law banning it on national security grounds but resumed services after Trump announced plans to issue a temporary reprieve.
The Biden administration had previously argued that TikTok posed security risks, citing concerns about potential data misuse by China. However, opponents of a ban emphasize that restricting access to the platform raises concerns about freedom of speech.
ByteDance has so far resisted US regulations requiring it to sell its American operations to avoid a ban, leaving the platform’s future uncertain.
What’s Next?
With ongoing shifts in social media platforms, it’s essential for marketers and content creators to stay agile and informed. Whether it’s adjusting Instagram strategies or monitoring TikTok’s legal battles, adaptability is key in the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing.
Stay tuned for further updates as these stories continue to unfold! If you’d like to discuss any aspect of your marketing our MD Kiesha would love to have a chat with you kiesha@iconmarketingcommunications.co.uk