Social news
TikTok users in UK to be left with ‘more toxic’ version of app, say campaigners ☠️
Key Points:
Context: TikTok users in the UK may experience a "less safe" and "more toxic" version of the app compared to users in Europe. This is due to the tech giant's decision to make its personalized algorithm optional in Europe in compliance with EU rules.
EU Regulation: Starting from the end of August, TikTok users in 30 European Economic Area (EEA) countries will have the option to opt out of receiving personalized content recommendations, which are primarily based on past user activity. Instead, they will see popular videos from their region and globally.
UK Situation: TikTok has stated that it has no intentions to offer the same option to UK users. The changes for EEA users are in line with the EU's new Digital Services Act, which doesn't apply to the UK. However, the situation is under review.
Campaigners' Concerns: Activists have criticized TikTok's decision, urging the platform to make the feature available more broadly. Research indicates that TikTok's algorithm can promote harmful content, including videos related to self-harm and eating disorders.
TikTok's Popularity: The app's personalized algorithm, which relies heavily on user tracking and profiling, has contributed to its global success. In the UK, 53% of individuals aged three to 17 use TikTok, surpassing platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook.
EU Digital Services Act: This act mandates "very large" platforms with over 45 million users to offer an option to disable personalized recommendations by the end of the month. The UK is also planning stricter regulations on tech companies, with the online safety bill expected to be enacted this year.
Other Platforms: Instagram, Facebook, and other companies will also be impacted by the EU legislation. Facebook mentioned that its platforms already allow users to turn off personalized feeds, while Twitter offers a similar feature.
TikTok's Response: TikTok highlighted other tools available for users to customize their feed, such as keyword filtering, the "not interested" tool, and "refresh", which lets users view content as if they were new to the platform.
The article emphasizes the potential risks associated with personalized content and the need for platforms to offer users more control over the content they see.
theguardian.com
New features
Replies tab coming to Threads 💬
A Replies tab, as on Twitter, is coming to a users' Timelines on Threads.
Thanks to Radu Oncescu for this one.
3 new Instagram features for Instagram 🆕
Meta has announced 3 new Instagram features:
🎶 Add songs to your photo carousels 👭 Collab with up to three friends on posts and reels 🕺🏽 Join fun challenges with the Add Yours sticker on Reels
Meta will also be bringing their music library to more countries over the coming weeks. Plus they are partnering with Spotify in Mexico and Brazil to feature 50 of the most popular songs from Instagram Reels with a new Reels Music Chart on Spotify.
Tools
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Terms: A to Z Glossary 📖
The article provides an overview of essential terms related to Artificial Intelligence (AI). It aims to help readers understand the jargon and concepts in the AI field. Some of the key terms highlighted include:
Artificial Intelligence (AI): The capability of a machine to imitate intelligent human behavior.
Machine Learning (ML): A subset of AI that allows computers to learn from data.
Deep Learning: A type of ML that uses neural networks with many layers. Neural Networks: Algorithms designed to recognize patterns.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): A field of AI that focuses on the interaction between computers and humans through natural language.
Robotics: The design, construction, and use of robots.
Cognitive Computing: Systems that learn and interact naturally with people to extend human capabilities.
Computer Vision: Enables machines to interpret and make decisions based on visual data.
Algorithm: A set of rules or processes followed by a computer in problem-solving.
Data Mining: The process of discovering patterns and knowledge from large amounts of data.
The article emphasizes the importance of understanding these terms as AI continues to evolve and play a significant role in various industries.
coursera.org
Social Mind: Social and AI Insights
Welcome to Monday's update and today's social media news 🙌
A busy start to the week with catch-ups, admin and content creation. Plus I'll be prepping for tomorrow's Power Up Your Business with LinkedIn course - spaces are still available.
You can view and book the full range of social media courses I present for NILC below.
Best wishes
JP
Social media courses delivered via NILC📞Call/WhatsApp on 029 2078 9139