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2025 Social Media Updates You Need to Know

Writer's picture: Mary CallahanMary Callahan

2025 is moving full speed ahead and so much is going on in the world that it can be hard to keep up with everything. We’re at least here to share 4 major updates when it comes to the world of social media. Let’s dive in…


  1. Algorithm Changes & Trends

Instagram & TikTok: More Focus on “Save-Worthy” Content

  • Short form video content still dominates. But now, platforms are prioritizing interactive and AI-generated content.

  • Apps favor “Save-Worthy” content over just likes and comments. Long captions, carousel posts, and educational reels get more reach and perform better than ever.

  • AI-generated and deepfake content is under strict moderation.

TikTok’s AI-First For You Page

  • TikTok is now testing AI-personalized content feeds based on deep behavioral insights.

  • Interactive video formats (like “choose your own adventure” content) are being promoted.

  • Longer TikToks (3-10 minutes) are making a comeback, competing directly with YouTube.

Twitter/X: AI-Powered Search & Summaries

  • Twitter/X has integrated AI news curators, providing automated summaries of trending topics.

  • Verified users and paid subscribers now can get access to enhanced content distribution tools.

  • More premium features behind paywalls, limiting organic reach for non-paying users.

LinkedIn Prioritizes Thought Leadership

  • Generic engagement-bait content (like “which job do you pick?” polls) is losing reach.

  • Expert-driven, in-depth posts and text-based updates are ranking higher.

  • LinkedIn is experimenting with AI-powered article generation tools for business leaders.


What This Means for Brands:

  • Focus on educational carousels, storytelling Reels, and BTS content to drive saves.

  • Focus on authentic, value-driven content.

  • Leverage interactive formats like polls, quizzes, etc.

  • Industry expertise > generic trending content.


  1. AI & Automation on Social Media

AI & Automation Content is Everywhere

  • TikTok and Instagram are testing AI-generated video recommendations based on user behavior.

  • More Ai-powered editing tools are available, making it easier for creators to produce polished content.

Instagram DMs: AI Auto-Replies for Brands

  • Business accounts can now use AI-driven chatbots to respond instantly to FAQs and customer inquiries.

  • Instagram is testing custom AI assistants that interact in brand voice for better engagement.

Deepfake Detection & Labeling

  • AI-generated content (especially realistic deepfakes) is being automatically labeled by platforms. 

  • Meta and TikTok have stricter content authenticity policies, reducing reach for misleading AI content.


What This Means for Brands:

  • Automate FAQ responses, appointment bookings, and lead qualification.

  • Use AI-driven chatbots that maintain your brand’s tone and personality.

  • Invest in real, human-driven storytelling and transparent branding.


  1. Social Commerce & Monetization Upgrades

Instagram & TikTok Shops Get Smarter

  • Personalized AI-driven shopping feeds based on user behavior.

  • Improved affiliate marketing tools, making it easier for creators to earn from product links.

  • TikTok LIVE Shopping is gaining traction in the U.S. after huge success in Asia.

YouTube’s Shorts Monetization Expands

  • Creators can now add direct shopping links inside Shorts.

  • More ad revenue-sharing options for Shorts creators, making them more profitable.

The Rise of Paid Communities & Exclusive Content

  • Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn are pushing paid membership models.

  • More creators are shifting toward exclusive content, private groups, and coaching communities.


What This Means for Brands:

  • Optimize your shop with AI-driven product recommendations and live shopping events.

  • Short-form content must be linked to your products.

  • Invest in short-form product demos and influencer collaborations that drive in-app purchases.

  • Monetize through VIP groups, paid memberships, or gated content (think masterclasses, insider clubs, or premium coaching memberships).


  1. New Features & Emerging Platforms

TikTok Notes (The New Instagram Competitor?)

  • TikTok has launched TikTok Notes, a photo-sharing app that could rival Instagram.

  • This app focuses on high-quality images and longer captions, targeting lifestyle and travel creators.

Threads Becomes a Multimedia Powerhouse

  • Meta’s Threads is evolving beyond text—now incorporating more video features and trending topics.

  • TikTok-style video feeds may be coming to compete with X (Twitter).

Snapchat’s AR Glasses Go Mainstream

  • Snapchat is heavily investing in AR shopping and virtual try-ons.

  • More brands are using Snap’s AR tools for digital product testing.


What This Means for Brands:

  • If your brand focuses on travel, fashion, or food, get on TikTok Notes early and claim your niche.

  • Experiment with video-first content on Threads before it gets crowded.

  • If you’re in fashion, beauty, or retail, start integrating AR shopping experiences.



What Should Brands Do Next?

  • Rework content strategy to focus on value, saves, and interaction.

  • Invest in AI for automation (but keep branding authentic).

  • Lean into social commerce (shoppable videos, live shopping, and direct links).

  • Test new platforms early (TikTok Notes, Threads, AI-powered LinkedIn posts).



Need help revamping your social media strategy with all these updates flooding the space? Book a discovery call with Media À La Carte today!


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