In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, staying updated with the latest changes is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. July 2024 has brought a wave of significant updates across major platforms that are set to reshape the digital landscape. From new privacy settings on X to enhanced features on Threads and milestone achievements by WhatsApp, these updates offer valuable insights and opportunities for marketers to leverage.
In this article, we delve into the top 36 digital marketing updates of July 2024, providing you with essential information to keep your strategies current and effective. Whether you’re navigating new features or adapting to platform changes, these updates are a must-read for any digital marketing professional.
Here we go! Check out our #NewThingsInDigital for July 2024.
Top 36 Digital Marketing Updates in July 2024
Stay ahead of the curve with a quick overview of the key digital marketing updates for July 2024. Get informed and keep your strategies cutting-edge!
New Things in Digital 4th Week of July 2024
July 22nd – July 28th, 2024
1. X is testing an option to block links in your post replies
X has implemented several strategic changes to discourage users from clicking on referral links that divert them away from its platform. By downgrading the reach of posts containing external links, the platform aims to retain user engagement within its ecosystem. Additionally, modifications to how link previews are displayed in the feed further reduce the attractiveness of leaving the site. As an alternative, X has introduced native long-form posting options, enabling users to share comprehensive content directly on the platform.
2. Threads improves pinch to merge images option
Threads has introduced an enhanced functionality for the pinch-to-merge images option, significantly improving user experience and efficiency. This update allows users to seamlessly combine multiple images with greater precision and fluidity. The gesture-based control has been refined to ensure a more intuitive interaction, enabling users to create visually compelling content effortlessly. By streamlining the merging process, Threads empowers users to express their creativity with minimal friction. Additionally, the improved feature is expected to encourage more dynamic storytelling through visual content, positioning Threads as a robust tool for both casual users and professional content creators alike.
3. Threads is developing an easier way to access likes and saved posts
Threads is reportedly developing a more streamlined approach to accessing likes and saved posts, enhancing user experience and engagement. This initiative aims to simplify navigation, allowing users to effortlessly revisit their favorite content and interactions. By prioritizing user-centric design, Threads seeks to foster a more intuitive interface that encourages community interaction and content discovery. This enhancement aligns with broader trends in social media, emphasizing ease of use and personalized experiences.
4. X has added a new setting to opt out of it using your data to train Grok
X has introduced a new setting that allows users to opt out of data sharing for the purpose of training its AI model, Grok. This enhancement reflects the company’s commitment to user privacy and data security, empowering individuals with greater control over their personal information. By implementing this feature, X aims to foster trust among its user base while ensuring compliance with evolving data protection regulations. The opt-out option underscores X’s dedication to ethical AI development, allowing users to participate in the improvement of AI technologies on their own terms, thereby reinforcing the importance of user agency in the digital landscape.
5. WhatsApp reaches 100M US users
WhatsApp has achieved a significant milestone by reaching 100 million users in the United States, underscoring its growing prominence in the realm of digital communication. This achievement highlights the platform’s ability to connect individuals and businesses seamlessly, offering features such as instant messaging, voice, and video calls. The surge in user adoption can be attributed to a combination of its user-friendly interface and end-to-end encryption, which enhances privacy and security. As the demand for efficient communication tools continues to rise, WhatsApp’s expanding user base positions it as a key player in the competitive landscape of messaging applications.
6. YouTube adds an option to save music from Shorts
YouTube has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to save music from Shorts, enhancing the platform’s appeal to both content creators and music enthusiasts. This functionality enables users to easily capture and curate soundtracks from their favorite short videos, fostering a more dynamic interaction with the platform’s extensive music library. By streamlining the process of accessing and utilizing music, YouTube aims to promote creativity and innovation in content creation. This addition not only enriches user experience but also positions YouTube as a more formidable competitor in the evolving landscape of social media and music streaming services.
7. Bing tests related searches at the top – below the search bar
Bing has recently initiated tests to position related searches prominently above the search bar, a strategic shift aimed at enhancing user engagement and search efficiency. This redesign allows users to discover relevant queries without scrolling through extensive results, thus streamlining the search experience. By showcasing related searches at the top, Bing not only facilitates quicker access to pertinent information but also encourages the exploration of interconnected topics. As these tests evolve, they may set new benchmarks for search engine usability and design.
8. Google testing save button for AI overviews
Google is currently testing a new “save” button feature for its AI-generated overviews, aimed at enhancing user experience and information management. This functionality allows users to easily retain and revisit comprehensive summaries generated by the AI, streamlining access to valuable insights. By enabling users to save these overviews, Google seeks to facilitate more efficient research and learning processes, particularly in rapidly evolving fields. This initiative reflects Google’s commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence to improve usability, ensuring that users can effectively engage with and utilize the wealth of information generated through its advanced AI technologies.
9. Google Gemini adds related content & verification links
Google Gemini has introduced a significant enhancement by incorporating related content and verification links into its platform.
This innovative feature allows users to seamlessly access supplementary information that enriches their understanding of various topics. By providing verification links, Gemini ensures that users can cross-reference information, fostering a more informed and reliable browsing experience. This addition not only enhances user engagement but also promotes critical thinking and discernment in information consumption.
New Things in Digital 3rd Week of July 2024
July 15th – July 21st, 2024
1. Threads is testing a media re-share option that credits creators
Meta is actively addressing content theft on its Threads platform by introducing an innovative feature aimed at facilitating the re-sharing of media while ensuring proper attribution to original posters. This initiative seeks to enhance user engagement and foster a more respectful environment for content creators, empowering them to receive recognition for their contributions. By simplifying the re-sharing process, Meta aims to mitigate the risks of unauthorized usage and bolster community trust. This strategic move not only underscores Meta’s commitment to protecting intellectual property but also aligns with broader industry trends advocating for ethical content-sharing practices.
2. Meta plans to allow new studies into Instagram’s impact on teens
In response to ongoing concerns regarding Instagram’s influence on adolescent mental health, Meta has announced a significant shift in its research approach. After years of persistent allegations about the platform’s adverse effects on teens, alongside the company’s stringent denials, Meta is now facilitating independent research to rigorously assess these impacts. This initiative marks an expansion of its previously restrictive research program, aiming to provide a transparent framework for evaluating Instagram’s role in shaping young users’ experiences. By collaborating with researchers, Meta seeks to address public apprehensions and contribute to a more informed understanding of social media’s effects on youth.
3. X will allow users to request a community note on posts
X is once again expanding its Community Notes feature, enhancing user engagement and oversight on the platform. This latest update introduces the capability for users to request notes on posts that they suspect may contain questionable claims. By allowing users to flag potentially misleading information, X aims to foster a more informed community and promote accountability among content creators. As misinformation continues to pose challenges in the digital landscape, such enhancements are crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring accurate discourse.
4. Google expands ‘Emoji Kitchen’ for World Emoji Day.
In a strategic move coinciding with World Emoji Day, Google has announced an expansion of its popular Emoji Kitchen platform, further enhancing user engagement and creative expression. This expansion introduces a diverse array of customizable emoji combinations, allowing users to craft unique and personalized emojis for various contexts. Additionally, Google has previewed an exciting new Emoji Kitchen effect set to launch on YouTube Shorts, promising to enrich video content with playful and customizable emoji overlays.
5. Meta expands Reels overlay ads to more brands
Meta is enhancing its advertising capabilities within Reels, the company’s rapidly expanding content format, by introducing Reels overlay ads for select advertisers. This innovative approach allows brands to engage audiences more effectively by placing ads directly within the Reels experience, ensuring a seamless integration with user-generated content. By leveraging this immersive ad format, advertisers can capitalize on the growing popularity of Reels to reach potential customers in a dynamic and visually appealing manner. As Reels continues to gain traction among users, this strategic move positions Meta to strengthen its advertising ecosystem while providing brands with new avenues for creative expression and audience engagement.
6. YouTube is developing thumb frame customization for Short clips
YouTube has addressed inquiries from creators regarding the potential for custom thumbnails for Shorts clips, clarifying that it currently has no plans to implement this feature. However, the platform is actively developing an alternative solution that will provide similar functionality. This approach aims to enhance content visibility and engagement while maintaining the unique characteristics of Shorts. Further updates are anticipated as development progresses.
7. Google Search continues tests with highlighted snippets and light backgrounds
Google Search appears to be actively experimenting with new visual enhancements in its search results snippets, specifically by highlighting certain words in blue. This testing phase aims to improve user experience by drawing attention to key terms, thereby facilitating quicker comprehension of search results. Additionally, Google is exploring the use of light background colors for selected words, further distinguishing important information within snippets. Such innovations underscore the ongoing evolution of search engine optimization strategies.
8. Google Search tests a “Back to AI Overview” button
Google Search is currently testing a new feature designed to enhance user experience by allowing searchers to easily revert to the AI Overview section after navigating past it. This functionality introduces a dedicated “Overview” button that appears once users scroll down to the standard search results. By encouraging users to click this button, Google aims to streamline the search process, ensuring that users can effortlessly return to the AI-generated insights that provide a comprehensive summary of their query.
9. Google tests renaming short videos to “Quick Takes”
Google is currently experimenting with a rebranding of its short videos carousel, proposing to rename it “Quick Takes” in search results. This feature aggregates concise video content from various platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, providing users with easily accessible snippets of information. The potential renaming to “Quick Takes” aims to enhance user experience by emphasizing the brevity and immediacy of the content.
New Things in Digital 2nd Week of July 2024
July 08th – July 14th, 2024
1. Facebook tests ‘Clear Mode’ for uncluttered Reels viewing
Facebook has recently announced that it is testing a new feature called ‘Clear Mode’ for uncluttered Reels viewing. This feature aims to provide users with a cleaner and more focused experience when watching Reels on the platform. By enabling Clear Mode, users will be able to enjoy a distraction-free viewing experience, with the focus solely on the content being shared. This move by Facebook demonstrates their commitment to improving the user experience and providing a more streamlined and enjoyable viewing experience for its users. As the testing phase progresses, it will be interesting to see how users respond to this new feature and whether it will become a permanent addition to the platform.
2. Meta lowers age limits for VR social experiences
Meta has announced that it will be lowering age limits for virtual reality (VR) social experiences on its platform. This decision comes as part of Meta’s ongoing efforts to make VR technology more accessible to younger users and create a safer online environment for all participants. By allowing users under the age of 13 to participate in VR social experiences, Meta aims to foster creativity, social interaction, and collaboration among a wider demographic. However, Meta has also emphasized the importance of implementing strict safety measures and parental controls to protect young users from potential risks and ensure a positive and secure online experience.
3. YouTube tests the ‘Add Yours’ sticker for Shorts
YouTube has recently begun testing a new feature to increase user engagement with Shorts. This feature closely resembles Instagram’s “Add Yours” sticker, which was originally inspired by TikTok’s Duet option. By adopting this popular format, YouTube aims to encourage more interaction among its users and foster a sense of community within its platform. As YouTube continues to innovate and enhance its offerings, it remains a key player in the competitive world of online video sharing.
4. YouTube adds new creative options for Shorts
YouTube has recently announced the rollout of new features for Shorts, aiming to enhance user experience and creativity. These features offer a variety of creative options to customize and expand the usage of Shorts content. Users now have access to tools that allow them to add text, music, filters, and effects to their Shorts videos, providing them with more opportunities to express their creativity and engage their audience. With these new features, content creators can elevate their Shorts content and make it more visually appealing and engaging.
5. LinkedIn expands access to its automated “Accelerate” campaigns
LinkedIn’s decision to expand access to its automated “Accelerate” campaigns, which leverage AI technology to streamline and automate the entire campaign creation process, marks a significant advancement in the realm of digital marketing. By enabling more businesses to utilize this cutting-edge tool, LinkedIn is empowering marketers to maximize their efficiency and effectiveness. With the ability to target specific audiences, create compelling ad creatives, and monitor performance in real-time, businesses can now achieve their marketing goals more efficiently than ever before.
6. WhatsApp introduces new safety measures for group chats
WhatsApp is taking steps to enhance transparency within its platform by introducing new features aimed at providing users with more information before joining group chats. By displaying the identity of the person who added you to a group, as well as a brief description of the group’s purpose, users will have a clearer understanding of the content and intent of the group before agreeing to join. These new features will empower users to participate in group chats with confidence, knowing more about the group dynamics and conversations they are entering.
7. Google Maps adds stop advertisements
Google Maps has developed a feature that suggests adding a stop along your route as an advertisement or sponsored route. This feature allows businesses to reach potential customers who are already en route to a certain destination. By utilizing this feature, businesses can increase their visibility and attract more customers by strategically placing their advertisements along popular routes. This not only benefits businesses by increasing foot traffic and sales but also enhances the user experience by providing relevant and useful information to users. Google Maps continues to innovate and provide valuable tools for both businesses and users to enhance their navigation experience.
8. Google tests country labels in search result snippets
Google may be testing a new feature that displays a country label attached to search result snippets to indicate the country in which the website operates. This potential update could provide users with valuable information about the geographical location of a website, helping them make more informed decisions about the credibility and relevance of the search results. By clearly identifying the country of origin for each site, Google could improve the user experience by ensuring greater transparency and accuracy in search results.
9. Bing Search tests labelling images with nutrition details
Bing is currently testing a new feature that adds nutritional details to images within its search results. This innovative addition includes labeling food products with descriptors such as “high calcium,” “lean protein,” “anti-inflammatory,” and other relevant labels. This feature aims to provide users with easily accessible information regarding the nutritional content of various food items, promoting more informed dietary choices. By highlighting key nutritional attributes, Bing is empowering users to make healthier decisions and cultivate a greater awareness of the impact of their food choices on their overall well-being.
New Things in Digital 1st Week of July 2024
July 01st – July 07th, 2024
1. Threads share usage insights to mark the year’s anniversary
Threads has recently released new usage insights that provide valuable information for businesses looking to optimize their operations. These insights offer a comprehensive look into user behavior, trends, and patterns within the platform, allowing companies to make data-driven decisions that drive productivity and efficiency. With real-time updates and customizable dashboards, businesses can easily track key metrics and identify areas for improvement. By leveraging these new usage insights, businesses can gain a competitive edge and drive growth in their industry.
2. Threads reach 175 million users on the first anniversary
Threads has reached a significant milestone on its one-year anniversary by reaching 175 million users. This achievement highlights the platform’s rapid growth and widespread adoption by companies seeking efficient and secure communication solutions. Through its innovative features and user-friendly interface, Threads has established itself as a leading tool for team collaboration and project management. The platform’s ability to streamline communication, centralize information, and enhance productivity has resonated with users across various industries, solidifying its position as a must-have tool for modern businesses.
3. WhatsApp is testing an AI selfie generator tool
Meta continues to innovate and enhance user experiences with the introduction of a new AI element. This latest addition comes in the form of an image creation tool, allowing users to place themselves within fantastical scenes for their profile pictures. By leveraging advanced artificial intelligence technology, Meta is enabling users to personalize their profiles in a unique and creative way. This new feature not only adds a fun and interactive element to the platform but also showcases the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge tools and technologies to its users.
4. YouTube expands channel @handles to 75 languages
In 2022, YouTube introduced @handles for channels, allowing creators to have a short and recognizable identifier for their content. This feature has proven to be beneficial in helping creators promote their channels and connect with their audience more effectively. Now, YouTube is expanding @handles to more languages to ensure that creators in various regions can take advantage of this tool. By offering @handles in multiple languages, YouTube is further supporting the global community of content creators and making it easier for viewers to discover and engage with their favorite channels.
5. Meta switches AI labels from ‘Made with AI’ to ‘AI Info’ tag
Meta is taking steps to enhance transparency and clarity regarding its use of AI technology by making a slight adjustment to its “Made with AI” labels. This update aims to address any confusion that may arise when users encounter these indicators while browsing content in-stream. This strategic move underscores Meta’s dedication to fostering trust and transparency with its users, ensuring that they are well-informed about the technologies at play in their online experiences.
6. EU Commission says Meta’s ad-free subscription offering violates DMA
Meta’s decision to offer EU users the option to opt out of ads and data tracking in order to comply with the ever-changing EU laws is a commendable effort. However, this move could potentially result in significant financial penalties for the tech giant. By allowing users to control their data privacy, Meta is taking a step in the right direction towards transparency and accountability. Nevertheless, the company must navigate carefully to ensure that its implementation of these changes aligns with the strict requirements of the EU regulations.
7. Google Search tests the Top Quality Store badge near the site name
Google is currently in the process of testing a new feature that involves placing the top-quality store badge and icon next to the site name area in the Google mobile search results. This update is intended to highlight websites that are deemed to provide high-quality content and services to users. By moving the icon from the bottom portion of the snippet to the very top, Google aims to make it easier for users to identify reputable and trustworthy websites at a glance.
8. Google Search tests long search bar variations
Google is currently in the process of testing a longer search bar, allowing users to input lengthier queries into the search box. This update aims to enhance the user experience by providing more space for users to enter in their search terms. Additionally, Google is experimenting with displaying the longer search bar in a gray color, along with other variations. As Google continues to test and refine these updates, users can expect a more streamlined and visually appealing search experience in the near future.
9. Google Local Service ads now on mobile Local Business Finder
Google has recently announced that they are now displaying Local Service Ads (LSAs) directly within the mobile version of the Google local business finder interface in Google Search. This development builds on the previous integration of LSAs on Google Maps for iOS, expanding the reach of these ads to a wider audience. By incorporating LSAs into the search interface, Google is streamlining the process for users to access trusted and verified service professionals in their area.
Explore the dynamic realm of digital marketing news with our comprehensive guide. Stay ahead of industry trends by accessing essential updates from both past and upcoming months, all conveniently gathered in one place. Dive into our blog archives for in-depth analyses of previous trends and keep yourself informed with crucial digital marketing news at your fingertips.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the top 36 digital marketing updates for July 2024, it’s clear that the digital landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. The latest changes from major platforms like X and Threads reflect a growing emphasis on user privacy, enhanced functionality, and improved engagement features.
For digital marketers, staying ahead of these trends is crucial for crafting effective strategies and maximizing impact. By integrating these updates into your marketing approach, you can better connect with your audience, adapt to shifting platform dynamics, and ensure your campaigns remain relevant and impactful. Keep these insights in mind as you navigate the ever-changing world of digital marketing, and you’ll be well-equipped to thrive in this exciting and fast-moving field.
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