Instagram Introduces Trial Reels for Testing Content with Non-Followers

Photo Credit: Instagram/Meta

December 17, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) – Instagram has announced the launch of Trial Reels, a new feature that allows creators to test content with non-followers before sharing it broadly. The feature is designed to help creators experiment with new formats, topics, and storytelling techniques without impacting their existing audience.

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Trial Reels are displayed exclusively to non-followers, providing creators with insights into how their content performs before deciding whether to share it with their followers. After 24 hours, creators can access engagement metrics such as views, likes, comments, and shares. Additionally, Instagram provides performance comparisons with other trials to help creators evaluate the content's success.

Creators can enable the feature by toggling the "Trial" option during the reel creation process. Trial Reels are not visible on a creator's profile grid or Reels tab unless they are later shared with all followers. Instagram also offers an automated option, allowing Trial Reels to be shared with followers if the content meets certain engagement thresholds within 72 hours.

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Trial Reels have been in testing with select creators earlier this year. Instagram reports that feedback has been positive, with creators finding the feature effective for reaching new audiences and refining their content strategies. The feature is now rolling out globally to eligible creators.

For more information about Trial Reels and eligibility requirements, visit Instagram’s Help Center at www.help.instagram.com.

Source: Instagram

TikTok Celebrates Cybersecurity Awareness Month and Highlights Security Efforts

Source: TikTok

October 29, 2024 (V Social Media of Hollywood) – TikTok is marking Cybersecurity Awareness Month by encouraging its global community to #BeCyberSmart and promoting its ongoing efforts to enhance security on the platform. As part of its initiative, TikTok is celebrating four years of its Global Bug Bounty Program in partnership with HackerOne, which has contributed to identifying and resolving over 1,000 security vulnerabilities since its launch in 2020.

TikTok's collaboration with HackerOne, which engages over 450 security researchers, has awarded more than $1.6 million in bounties for reported vulnerabilities. In August, TikTok participated in a Live Hacking Event, awarding $720,000 to 50 researchers from 29 countries for their findings.

“TikTok’s bug bounty program contributes to its sophisticated security posture as an invaluable last line of defense. Over the last four years, TikTok's dedication to building engagement on their program has continued to produce powerful results,” said HackerOne CEO, Marten Mickos.

As part of the Cybersecurity Awareness Month celebrations, TikTok is spotlighting key contributors in its bug bounty program, including researchers like Jeffery (supermancyber), Imran Nisar (imran_nisar), and Pham (datph4m), who have consistently helped enhance the platform's security.

In addition, TikTok is highlighting cybersecurity creators such as Kevin (@adjacentnode), Marcus Hutchins (@itsmarcushutchins), and Lola (@lolalovestech) who educate the platform's users on cybersecurity topics. Their content empowers the community to explore cybersecurity and encourages responsible online behavior.

For more information on TikTok’s cybersecurity initiatives, visit www.tiktok.com.

Source: TikTok

Meta Partners with Blumhouse to Pilot AI Video Technology 'Movie Gen'

October 28, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Meta has announced its partnership with Blumhouse, the production company known for its work in horror films, to pilot "Meta Movie Gen," an AI-powered suite of models that allows users to generate custom videos and audio from text inputs. According to the company, Meta is collaborating with filmmakers and content creators to gather feedback on the tool as it continues its development.

Meta Movie Gen is designed to generate high-quality 1080p video with accompanying audio tracks. Although the platform is not yet available for public use, Meta has launched a pilot program with Blumhouse and select filmmakers to evaluate its potential. The filmmakers Aneesh Chaganty (Searching, Run), The Spurlock Sisters (The Breakline), and Casey Affleck (I’m Still Here, Light of My Life) participated in the trial, using the generated videos as part of larger creative projects. Short films and experimental videos created with the technology are currently available on Meta’s Movie Gen page, with additional works from Affleck and The Spurlock Sisters set to be released.

"While we’re not planning to incorporate Movie Gen models into any public products until next year, Meta feels it’s important to have an open and early dialogue with the creative community about how it can be the most useful tool for creativity and ensure its responsible use," said Connor Hayes, VP of GenAI at Meta.

Blumhouse founder and CEO Jason Blum emphasized the significance of innovation in the film industry. "Artists are and forever will be the lifeblood of our industry. Innovation and tools that can help those artists better tell their stories is something we are always keen to explore, and we welcomed the chance for some of them to test this cutting-edge technology and give their notes on its pros and cons while it’s still in development," said Blum.

The feedback from the pilot so far has highlighted the technology's potential as a collaborative tool for filmmakers. According to Meta, the directors involved in the trial found that Movie Gen helped them explore creative ideas quickly, generate sound effects, and experiment with visual direction, tone, and mood. The tool’s capabilities for generating audio and unexpected video responses to text inputs also provided inspiration for new concepts.

Meta plans to extend the pilot program into 2025, gathering further insights from both traditional filmmakers and digital-first content creators. As the company continues to develop the tool, the feedback provided will help improve its functionality before it is made available to the public.

For more information, visit www.meta.com/moviegen.

Source: Meta

UnitedMasters Partners with TikTok to Expand Opportunities for Independent Artists

Photo Credit: UnitedMasters

BROOKLYN, NY, October 25, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – UnitedMasters, a music distribution platform that focuses on supporting independent artists, has announced a new partnership with TikTok. This multi-year deal will provide TikTok access to UnitedMasters' catalog of music and offer additional commercial opportunities for UnitedMasters artists through TikTok’s Commercial Music Library.

According to the company, the collaboration aims to create more opportunities for independent artists while providing TikTok users with access to a diverse range of music. “Our partnership with TikTok provides UnitedMasters artists unparalleled access to a vast global audience, while TikTok creators and users gain early exposure to some of the most impactful independent music today,” said Steve Stoute, Founder and CEO of UnitedMasters.

“We want to make the world's best music available to our global community of over a billion music fans. That's why we are so excited to be entering into a direct deal with a prominent independent label like UnitedMasters, with its deep, diverse roster of independent artists. Together, we’re ready to amplify these voices and bring their music to a global stage, unlocking new opportunities for discovery,” said Ole Obermann, Head of Music Business Development at TikTok.

UnitedMasters has already supported the rise of artists like BigXThaPlug, Tobe Nwigwe, and FloyyMenor, whose song "Gata Only" became a global hit after gaining traction on TikTok.

For more information, visit www.unitedmasters.com.

Source: TikTok

WhatsApp Introduces New Features for Adding and Managing Contacts

Photo Credit: WhatsApp

October 23, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – WhatsApp is rolling out new features aimed at simplifying how users add and manage contacts across multiple devices. The updates will allow users to manage contacts not only on mobile devices but also on WhatsApp Web, Windows, and eventually other linked devices, according to the company.

Previously, contacts could only be added via mobile devices, either by typing in a phone number or scanning a QR code. With these new updates, users can now manage contacts directly from their desktop. The company has also introduced a feature allowing contacts to be saved exclusively to WhatsApp, ideal for those sharing their phones with others or separating personal and business contacts across multiple accounts.

According to WhatsApp, contacts saved within the app will be backed up and restored if users lose or change their devices. WhatsApp also revealed that it is working towards enabling contact management through usernames, which would allow users to communicate without sharing phone numbers, enhancing privacy.

For more information, visit the official WhatsApp report.

Source: WhatsApp

TikTok LIVE to Feature at MCM x EGX London 2024 Gaming Convention

LONDON, October 22, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – TikTok LIVE will take center stage at this year’s MCM x EGX London 2024, one of the UK’s largest gaming conventions, running from October 25–27 at ExCel London. The event marks the collaboration between TikTok and ReedPop, bringing together the gaming community, content creators, and fans for live interactions both online and on-site.

TikTok LIVE, known for connecting millions of users worldwide through real-time interactions, will feature a dedicated booth where UK-based gaming creators will compete and stream live gameplay to the TikTok community. Fans will have the opportunity to watch creators like @sizzsarzlive, @tomjoneswales, and @just..evie_ stream from the TikTok LIVE Lounge.

When asked about participating in the event, creator @sizzsarzlive said, "I love being able to showcase new and exciting games to my community, in a safe environment where I feel truly supported by TikTok."

Steve Wang, Head of TikTok Gaming, emphasized the importance of the platform for gaming creators, stating, "TikTok LIVE is where gaming creators thrive and communities grow. With millions of fans discovering new content on TikTok every day, we’re excited to return to MCM x EGX and continue supporting the rise of gaming on TikTok."

MCM x EGX 2024 will feature a wide range of activities, including panels, game demos, cosplay competitions, and workshops. Attendees can also watch the UK’s TEKKEN 8 Major event as part of the European TEKKEN Cup and participate in photo ops with the cast of Baldur’s Gate 3.

Keep an eye on the official EGX & MCM Comic Con pages for the latest announcements and purchase tickets HERE.

- TikTok

Source: TikTok

Meta Introduces New Educational Resources to Boost Engagement on Threads

Photo Credit: Meta

October 21, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Meta has announced the launch of new educational resources designed to help users of its platform, Threads, improve engagement and visibility. According to the company, these resources aim to provide users with best practices, data-backed tips, and content examples from successful creators to enhance content creation and drive conversations on the platform.

In the announcement, Meta highlighted several insights already helping users grow their audience. For example, replies account for nearly half of the views on Threads, suggesting that joining conversations can increase reach. Additionally, posting frequently—at least 2 to 5 times per week—has been linked to higher impressions per post, and humorous content has shown to receive more views. According to Meta, combining text with video or images, and posting during weekends, can further boost engagement.

The new resources are available on the Threads website and include detailed advice on how to create more engaging and discoverable content. Topics that generate high levels of replies include TV and movies, fashion, sports, and travel, among others.

"We created Threads because we think everyone has something worth saying, and we want you to be able to create a community around your best ideas and most interesting thoughts," the company stated. Meta plans to continue adding more insights and stories from successful creators in the coming months.

To read the official announcement, click here.

To learn more, visit the official Threads website.

Source: Meta

Snapchat Introduces Sponsored Snaps and Promoted Places for Advertisers

October 11, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Snapchat has announced the introduction of two new advertising formats, Sponsored Snaps and Promoted Places, which are now being tested with launch partners Disney, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell. According to the company, these new placements are designed to enhance how businesses engage with users across two widely used features on Snapchat: the Snap inbox and Snap Map.

Sponsored Snaps allow businesses to deliver full-screen vertical video messages directly to Snapchat users. The Snap appears in the user’s inbox, distinct from other Snaps, and is opt-in, meaning users can choose whether to view the message. If a user does not view the Sponsored Snap, it will be removed from their inbox. Businesses can include a call-to-action link in the Snap, allowing users to respond directly or visit a designated webpage.

Promoted Places, the second new feature, highlights specific locations on the Snap Map to help users discover businesses they may want to visit. The Snap Map, which is frequently used for exploration, will showcase these places of interest, potentially increasing foot traffic. According to Snapchat, their internal data shows that marking a location as a “Top Pick” on the Snap Map results in an average visitation lift of 17.6% for frequent Snapchat users.

Snapchat is also exploring future enhancements to these features, including potential integrations with CRM systems and AI chatbot support to facilitate easier interactions between businesses and customers.

Read the full press announcement here.

Source: Snapchat

StudioNow Introduces Bad Moon Media to Expand Influencer Marketing Offerings

NASHVILLE, October 10, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – StudioNow has announced the launch of Bad Moon Media, a new subsidiary designed to offer influencer marketing and media campaign solutions. The new division aims to serve brands across a range of industries, with a particular focus on the gaming sector.

Bad Moon Media builds on an 18-month collaboration between StudioNow and Bad Moon Talent, during which the two worked together to deliver campaigns for brands including Amika, Jack Link’s, and Sony PlayStation.

David Mason, Founder and CEO of StudioNow, said, “The creation of Bad Moon Media marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering premium content solutions for brands across various industries. By combining our production capabilities alongside Bad Moon Talent’s influencer marketing expertise, we’re positioned to deliver scalable campaigns that not only engage audiences but also elevate brand storytelling to new heights.”

Reed Trimble, Vice President of Bad Moon Media, emphasized the subsidiary’s focus on the gaming industry, stating, “Bad Moon Media was created to provide a proper solution for brands that want to invest in marketing to the 3.3 billion worldwide gaming audience.”

With this expansion, StudioNow offers clients a broader range of services, from content production to influencer-driven campaigns, aimed at helping brands effectively reach their target audiences across multiple platforms.

For more information, visit www.studionow.com.

Source: StudioNow, Inc.

Instagram Introduces New Features for Direct Messaging

Photo Credit: Instagram

October 9, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Instagram has announced the release of new features aimed at improving the functionality of its Direct Messaging (DM) platform. These updates include options for sharing disappearing content, customizing chat themes, and using new tools to enhance communication efficiency.

The new "View once" feature allows users to send photos and videos that can only be viewed once before disappearing, providing more control over shared content. Additionally, Instagram has expanded its customization options by offering various themes for chat backgrounds, which can be selected based on user preferences.

Instagram has also introduced new AI-powered stickers and a "Cutouts" feature, allowing users to create personalized stickers from their own photos or videos. These updates are designed to offer more creative ways to engage in conversations.

Users can now pin up to three chats at the top of their inbox for easy access. Other updates include the ability to edit or unsend messages within 15 minutes of sending them, allowing users to make corrections or retract messages as needed.

Additional features include the option to send messages silently using the "/silent" command, and the ability to conduct polls within group chats to gather input from participants.

For more information on the new Instagram Direct Message features, click here.

Source: Instagram

Coldplay Launches Interactive TikTok Experience to Celebrate New Album 'MOON MUSiC'

Photo Credit: TikTok

LAS VEGAS, October 8, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Coldplay has launched an exclusive interactive experience on TikTok to coincide with the release of their highly anticipated album, MOON MUSiC. The in-app experience offers fans unique opportunities to engage with Coldplay’s content, unlock exclusive features, and earn rewards while interacting with the band’s new music.

Photo Credit: TikTok

Available globally, the MOON MUSiC experience allows TikTok users to explore exclusive Coldplay content, purchase limited merchandise on TikTok Shop (U.S. only), and earn a Coldplay-themed profile frame. Fans can participate by searching for "Coldplay" or "MOON MUSiC" within the app, or by interacting with content on Coldplay’s TikTok account (@coldplay). To unlock the profile frame, users must complete tasks such as adding Coldplay’s latest single, "ALL MY LOVE," to a streaming platform, liking and commenting on exclusive videos, and creating a video using the song.

Fans can further engage by using the hashtag #MoonMusic on their videos, offering a chance to be featured in the official Fan Spotlight carousel on TikTok.

TikTok Music Partnerships Manager, Alice Razack, commented on the collaboration, stating, "We are delighted to partner with Coldplay to celebrate the launch of their highly anticipated album MOON MUSiC. As one of the most influential and iconic bands to emerge from the UK, Coldplay has continually pushed creative boundaries with enormous support from the global TikTok community. They continue to inspire fans worldwide, and we are proud to support them with this interactive experience."

The MOON MUSiC experience builds on Coldplay’s longstanding popularity on TikTok, where tracks like "Yellow," "Viva La Vida," and "A Sky Full of Stars" have inspired millions of video creations. The band recently performed a surprise show in Dublin, Ireland, ahead of their sold-out performances at Croke Park, further energizing their fanbase both on and off the platform.

Fans can join the MOON MUSiC experience by searching for #MoonMusic on TikTok to access exclusive content and participate in the interactive initiative.

For more information, visit TikTok’s newsroom at TikTok Newsroom.

Source: TikTok

Snapchat Expands Safety Measures to Protect Users from Online Exploitation

October 4, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Snapchat has introduced new measures aimed at improving user safety, with a focus on preventing online exploitation such as sextortion and child sexual abuse. The platform has implemented advanced technology, including tools like PhotoDNA and CSAI Match, to detect and block harmful content. New in-app warnings for suspicious contacts and improved friending protections have been added to enhance safety for teenage users.

In addition to its technical updates, Snapchat has expanded its Family Center tools, which allow parents to monitor their teens' interactions on the platform. The company has also increased its global Trust and Safety teams, as well as its Law Enforcement Operations team, to support investigations and address potential threats. Snapchat collaborates with law enforcement agencies both in the U.S. and internationally, particularly in regions where online exploitation is prevalent.

The platform remains involved in industry-wide efforts to address online harm, participating in programs such as the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Take It Down initiative. Snapchat also works with global coalitions like WeProtect and the Tech Coalition to share information and develop strategies to prevent child exploitation.

Snapchat continues to raise awareness about online safety through public education efforts, including research initiatives like the Digital Well-Being Index. These efforts aim to provide insights into online behaviors and risks, helping users, parents, and industry partners stay informed.

Read the official release from snapchat here.

Source: Snapchat

Snapchat Launches Season 2 of "Phantom House" for Halloween 2024

Photo Credit: Snapchat

Oct. 3, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Snapchat has announced the return of its popular horror-themed content series Phantom House for Halloween 2024. Season 2 of the series features four new episodes, each filled with chilling stories that blur the line between reality and the supernatural. The episodes will be available as Snap Story compilations and star popular Snapchat creators Tue Nguyen, Jake Koehler, Rachel Levin, and Caryn Marjorie, each bringing their unique approach to their own episode.

In collaboration with Atomic Digital Design, Snapchat is also introducing four AR Lenses that correspond with each Phantom House episode. These Lenses allow users to immerse themselves in the eerie environments of the series, from zombie-infested freezers to demon transformations, creating a more interactive and shareable experience for Snapchatters.

The series has partnered with brands including Maybelline New York, State Farm®, and Hulu, which are sponsoring various aspects of the content. Maybelline is integrating branded content into one episode and launching custom creator content, an AR Lens, Commercials, and Snap Ads. State Farm will release an immersive AR Lens, alongside other digital content, while Hulu is promoting its Huluween campaign and the Hulu Originals film Carved through AR Lenses, Commercials, and Snap Video Ads.

Episode 1 of Phantom House is currently available on the series' Public Profile on Snapchat, with new episodes releasing every Tuesday.

To watch, visit Snapchat’s Phantom House profile.

Source: Snapchat

Reddit Expands Machine Translation Feature to 35 New Countries

Photo Credit: Reddit

September 30, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Reddit has announced the expansion of its machine translation feature to more than 35 new countries, allowing users to translate their Reddit feeds, including posts and comments, into additional languages. This feature, which was initially rolled out to users in France earlier this year, is now available to Redditors in countries such as Brazil and Spain, with plans to extend to Germany, Italy, the Philippines, and several nations across Latin America in the coming weeks.

According to Reddit, users can now access the translate icon in the overflow menu of the app to translate content into their preferred language. This function enables users to participate in discussions and contribute to communities in their own language, while posts and comments will be automatically translated into the native language of the community.

The new feature will be available across mobile web, apps, and desktop platforms, providing a seamless experience for users regardless of the device they use to access Reddit. For example, a user in Spain who typically uses Reddit in Spanish can now follow and engage in French-language discussions by translating the content into Spanish.

As part of this rollout, Reddit will also make it easier for people to discover content in their own languages through search engines. Translated Reddit content will begin to appear in search engine results, further broadening the platform's accessibility.

This machine translation feature is expected to enhance user interaction and community engagement on Reddit by breaking down language barriers and encouraging diverse conversations.

View the official announcement here.

Source: Reddit

Meta Unveils Orion: Advanced Augmented Reality Glasses for the Future

Source: Meta

September 25, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) – Meta has introduced Orion, its first augmented reality (AR) glasses, described as the company’s most advanced AR glasses to date. The product, previously codenamed Project Nazare, combines the appearance of regular glasses with immersive augmented reality capabilities.

Orion is designed to offer a blend of physical and digital interaction through features such as holographic displays and integrated artificial intelligence (AI). According to Meta, select employees and external audiences will have access to the Orion prototype, allowing the development team to gather feedback and continue refining the product.

The glasses are intended to allow users to engage with digital experiences without the constraints of a smartphone screen. According to Meta, the AR glasses are equipped with advanced technology, including four cameras for hand tracking and Snap Spatial Engine, which enables interaction with virtual content. The glasses also include transparent lenses, allowing wearers to maintain eye contact and facial expressions while using the device.

In a press release, Meta stated that Orion provides the largest field of view in AR glasses to date, enabling users to view multitasking windows, life-size holograms, and more. The company also explained that the prototype represents significant progress in reducing the size of AR hardware while maintaining performance.

While Orion is not set to be released to consumers, the company notes that it is an important milestone in the development of future AR products. Meta plans to continue optimizing the AR glasses by improving the display quality, reducing the device's size, and scaling production to make it more affordable.

For more information, visit www.meta.com.

Source: Meta

Snap Inc. Unveils Fifth Generation of Spectacles and Introduces Snap OS

Photo Credit: Snap Inc.

LOS ANGELES, September 23, 2024 (VSNewsNetwork.com) – Snap Inc. has unveiled the fifth generation of its Spectacles, standalone AR glasses that run on the company’s newly developed Snap OS. This latest version of Spectacles is designed to enable users to experience augmented reality (AR) through lightweight, wearable technology, with a focus on integrating digital content into real-world environments.

The new Spectacles feature a lightweight design, weighing 226 grams, and are equipped with four cameras that support hand-tracking through Snap’s Spatial Engine. The glasses use proprietary technology, including Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) micro-projectors and advanced waveguide optics, to provide users with a 46-degree diagonal field of view and a 37 pixel-per-degree resolution. The glasses also automatically adjust their tint based on the lighting environment to ensure clarity in various conditions.

Snap’s new operating system, Snap OS, powers the Spectacles and enables users to interact with the device through hand gestures and voice commands. The system allows Lenses to be integrated into real-world environments with a motion-to-photon latency of just 13 milliseconds, making for more accurate AR experiences.

In a press release, Snap emphasized that the new Spectacles and Snap OS are designed for developers as much as for users. Through the Lens Studio 5.0 software and the new Spectacles Interaction Kit, developers can build AR Lenses without needing to create custom interaction systems. Additionally, Snap has partnered with OpenAI to bring AI models to the platform, allowing for more context-aware AR applications.

Snap has also announced partnerships with AR developers, including the LEGO Group, which is launching an interactive AR game called BRICKTACULAR. Other partners include Lucasfilm’s ILM Immersive, Niantic, and Wabisabi Games, who are developing new AR experiences for the platform.

Spectacles are available through Snap's Spectacles Developer Program, which costs $99 per month with a one-year commitment. The subscription includes access to the AR glasses and Snap’s support for developers looking to create projects on the platform.

For more information on the Spectacles Developer Program, visit www.spectacles.com/lens-studio.

Source: Snap inc.

TwitchCon San Diego 2024 Kicks Off with Packed Schedule of Events and Exhibitors

Photo Credit: Twitch

SAN DIEGO, September 20, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – TwitchCon San Diego returns to the San Diego Convention Center from September 20–22, featuring a wide array of activities, exhibitor booths, and interactive spaces. Presenting sponsors, including AT&T, Capcom, Chevron, and Samsung, are leading the weekend with unique experiences for attendees.

Attendees can expect head-to-head gaming matchups at the AT&T booth, hands-on activities at Capcom’s gaming station, and opportunities to meet streamers and grab swag at Chevron’s booth. Samsung will also offer mobile gaming challenges for players of all levels.

The Expo Hall will host numerous exhibitors, including game developers and service providers for streamers. Highlights include the Indie Game Zone, where developers such as The Behemoth, ChatBattlers, and Pahdo Labs will showcase their work. Attendees can also purchase exclusive merchandise at the Loot Cave.

TwitchCon San Diego offers a range of competitions, including Games Done Quick Express 2024, where attendees can watch speedrunners compete. The Peloton LaneBreak Challenge will give participants a chance to win prizes while raising funds for charity. The TwitchCon Arcade, presented by Differin, will feature arcade classics and giveaways.

LAN Party enthusiasts can also take part in challenges presented by Embark, featuring the game THE FINALS, and Battlestate Games’ Escape from Tarkov: Arena. These events are spread across the weekend, with full details available on the schedule.

TwitchCon provides a platform for community members to connect, with events such as Community MeetUps, live podcasts, and game shows. The Creator Camp offers workshops and best practices for growing a streaming audience. Streamers can also try out the latest tech at the Streamer Station, powered by Streamlabs.

For those looking to unwind, Artist Alley will feature artists showcasing their work, while lounges like the Partner Lounge and Lo-Fi Lounge will offer spaces to recharge. Cosplayers and drag performers can utilize the PowerUp Lounge for outfit repairs and makeup touch-ups.

The Twitch Rivals Arena, presented by State Farm, will host competitive gaming events throughout the weekend, including the return of The Twitch Rivals Ultimate Challenge. Official marketing partners, such as AT&T, Dunkin’, Honda, Intel, and MythWalker, will be present with various activities and giveaways, including the chance to win a customized Honda Civic Sedan Hybrid.

For those unable to attend in person, TwitchCon San Diego will be streamed live on TwitchRivals.

Learn more at www.twitchcon.com/san-diego-2024.

Source: Twitch

Instagram Launches Teen Accounts with Enhanced Safety Features

Photo Credit: Meta

September 17, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Instagram has introduced a new feature called "Teen Accounts" to enhance safety and privacy for teens using the platform. The update aims to provide built-in protections for users under the age of 16, addressing concerns about who teens interact with and the content they see online. The new feature also includes parental oversight, ensuring a safer and more age-appropriate experience for young users.

Instagram Teen Accounts automatically apply privacy settings that limit interactions and content exposure for teens. These protections include private accounts by default, restricted messaging options, and sensitive content controls. Teens will also be able to choose topics of interest for a more personalized and positive experience on the platform. To ensure responsible use, notifications will remind teens to log off after 60 minutes of daily use, and a sleep mode will mute notifications between 10 PM and 7 AM.

Parental involvement is a key aspect of the update. Teens under 16 will need parental permission to modify any of the built-in protections, and parents will have access to additional supervision tools, including setting time limits for daily Instagram use and blocking access during specific times.

Instagram’s Teen Accounts will be implemented within 60 days in regions such as the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia, with plans to expand to the European Union and other Meta platforms in the future.

For more information on Instagram’s Teen Accounts click here.

Soure: Meta

Tenorshare Introduces Solutions for Transferring WhatsApp from Android to iPhone Without Factory Reset

Photo Credit: Tenorshare

September 16, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – Tenorshare has announced new methods for transferring WhatsApp data from Android devices to iPhones without the need for a factory reset. The company has highlighted three popular approaches, including the use of its iCareFone Transfer software, Google Drive backups, and manual export options.

According to Tenorshare, transferring WhatsApp data between Android and iPhone has traditionally been challenging due to Apple's restrictions. However, the company now offers a way to securely transfer data without factory reset, allowing users to keep their information intact.

Tenorshare’s iCareFone Transfer tool offers a high-speed solution for those looking for an efficient transfer. It can handle WhatsApp Business transfers and allows users to merge WhatsApp data from both devices. The tool also supports comprehensive backup, restore, and management options for various messaging apps, including Kik and Viber. “iCareFone Transfer is compatible with the latest iOS 18 and iPhone models, including iPhone 16,” the company stated.

For those looking for a free alternative, Tenorshare suggests using Google Drive backups and manual exports. Although this method does not fully integrate the chats into WhatsApp on an iPhone, it allows users to view a readable backup. Another option for those without access to a computer is the "Email Chat" feature, which enables users to send chat histories via email for viewing on an iPhone.

Tenorshare iCareFone Transfer offers users a solution to migrate WhatsApp from Android to iPhone without the risks of losing data through factory resets. The company is also holding a giveaway event to celebrate the release of iOS 18, where participants can win an iPhone 16.

For more information, visit Tenorshare's official website.

Source: Tenorshare Co. Ltd. via PR Newswire

TikTok Partners with Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Becoming Official Partner of the Washington Capitals

Photo Credit: TikTok

September 11, 2024 (V SOCIAL MEDIA OF HOLLYWOOD) – TikTok has announced a multiyear partnership with Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE), making the platform the official partner of the NHL's Washington Capitals. The collaboration includes TikTok's debut on the Capitals' white road jerseys for the 2024-25 season and extends across other MSE teams, including the NBA’s Washington Wizards, WNBA’s Washington Mystics, NBA G-League’s Capital City Go-Go, and NBA2K’s Wizards District Gaming.

As part of the agreement, TikTok will be the title sponsor of the Capitals' 50th Anniversary Celebration, which will feature a variety of events commemorating five decades of Capitals hockey. TikTok branding will also be prominently featured in-arena and during Capitals' road games, beginning with the September 24th game against the Boston Bruins.

Jim Van Stone, President of Business Operations and Chief Commercial Officer at MSE, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “As a sports enterprise with a large and diverse fan base, we are excited to utilize TikTok to uniquely connect, entertain, and interact with fans across all of our Monumental Sports teams, starting with the Capitals' 50th Anniversary Celebration this fall. TikTok empowers our fans to share their passion for the Caps and all our teams in their own unique ways.”

TikTok’s involvement will also include the Capitals’ road game broadcasts on Monumental Sports Network and the Capitals Road to Success radio feature. The Capitals, the eighth most-followed NHL team on TikTok with over 387,000 followers, will continue to use the platform to share content highlighting players and behind-the-scenes moments.

“Monumental Sports & Entertainment is home to some of the country’s most iconic and beloved sports franchises on TikTok," said Kate Jhaveri, Global Head of Marketing at TikTok. "We couldn’t be more excited to partner with MSE as they celebrate 50 years of the Washington Capitals, and we're thrilled to be a part of their journey in bringing the joy of sports to a new generation of fans on TikTok."

The partnership is set to run through the 2026-27 season and will encompass various branding and content creation initiatives across MSE properties. TikTok becomes the Capitals’ first-ever road jersey partner, following the team’s home jersey partnership with Caesars Sportsbook announced in 2021.

For more information, visit newsroom.tiktok.com.

Source: TikTok