We are back again with our weekly summary on what's the latest news in social media this week. It is evident that the majority of platforms are finding ways to help improve the ways in which we are connecting online during this time. So here's what's new!
Instagram Live videos can now be streamed on desktop
Instagram Live is now available through the web, making the viewing experience far more enjoyable. The functionality on the web is seemingly identical, with the ability to comment and/or add emoji reactions in real time. Instead of overlaying comments and emojis, the web version of Instagram separates them out to the side, with a separated user response column to the right side of the video feed.
YouTube launches a free, DIY tool for businesses in need of short video ads
Youtube is launching a new tool aimed at small businesses that need a simple, low-cost way to create videos, but may not have the creative experience or technical know-how required to do so. To gain access to the tool, all a business needs is a Google Account to be able to log in to Google's services.
Google Play has added a “teacher approved” section for educational apps
Google is making it easier for families to find quality educational apps with the addition of a new “Teacher Approved” section to Google Play. The company worked with academic experts to create the framework for rating apps for kids.
Facebook releases an experimental messaging app for Apple watch
The experimental messaging app for Apple Watch, Kit, appears to work in a similar way to iMessage on the device. You can share emoji, voice messages, your location and dictated messages over Messenger with a tap. Kit has been primarily designed to help people stay in contact with close friends and family.
Youtube is testing a 'chapters' feature to help you navigate lengthy videos
Youtube is rolling out a new feature called Chapters for videos. The feature takes timestamps for description specified by creators, and automatically turns them into chapter markers for the video. This will allow viewers to easily skip to the parts they want to see.
