As we navigate through uncertain times, remember, we’re all in this together. This week’s Social Media in the News is here to guide you through several changes happening quickly in the online world, as well as a couple of things to keep laughter going.
Zoom makes a boom, and hilarity ensues
If you weren’t familiar with Zoom before March 2020, it’s now very much mainstream as millions of people are now working from home. The video-conferencing platform has burst onto the scene, connecting people like never before online.
It could very well become its own social media giant as we adapt to a changing society.
But if you’re using Zoom, PLEASE don’t take your computer with you to the bathroom during a meeting. ?
Seriously. Check out this video below of what happened to someone recently…
But hey, when you gotta go, you gotta go, right?
YouTube lowers quality of video
To help allow for more bandwidth around the world, YouTube has lowered the quality of its videos to standard definition. Viewers can switch to high definition, but that option is no longer default.
Regulators in Europe have asked Amazon and Netflix to lower its bandwidth usage as more people use the platforms at home during the day.
Google drops reviews, for now
In an effort to help local businesses, Google has temporarily put a hold on reviews. It appears this is a move to prevent negative reviews for businesses who are closed temporarily or not offering its usual services.
Yelp is also making changes during the COVID-19 crisis. It has changed its review guidelines and is offering free ads to some businesses.
Instagram launches new feature
Instagram has joined the video-conferencing world with a “Co-Watching” feature. It enables users to connect through a video chat while also still scrolling through your Instagram feed.
Facebook experiences delays in delivering ads
As Facebook adjusts its staffing and how it’s working with contract workers, the company says ads are being delayed.
“We’re doing everything we can to keep our global teams and the community that uses our apps safe while continuing to provide the services people and businesses rely on,” the company posted in its Newsroom.
In case you missed it
Be sure to watch out for fake coronavirus posts! Check out our previous Social Media in the News post for more information.
