Observed Signal · Jun 20, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Instagram Adds Automatic Search History Deletion
Instagram has introduced an option to automatically delete search history through the Account Center. Users can set retention to 3, 7, 14, or 30 days, with a default of 30 days. This feature aims to improve privacy by periodically removing stored search data. A step-by-step guide is provided: open the profile menu, select Settings and Privacy, go to Accounts Overview, access Your Information and Permissions, and tap Search History to manage retention. Following a test phase in the United States, the rollout is expanding globally. The article also notes that Instagram Broadcast Channels are now available worldwide and mentions new engagement options, such as question prompts, as part of Meta’s broader privacy and user-control initiatives.
Technical Release from Major Platform impacting user privacy controls.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Instagram allows automatic deletion of search history via the Account Center.
- Retention options are 3, 7, 14, or 30 days; the default is 30 days.
- Access path to manage search history: Burger menu > Settings & Privacy > Accounts Overview > Your Information and Permissions > Search History.
- Broadcast Channels are now globally available on Instagram.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedRelated Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Instagram Adds Reels Watch History
Instagram has introduced a Watch History feature for Reels, allowing users to view videos they previously watched. The feature is presented by platform chief Adam Mosseri and can be accessed via Settings > Your Activity > Reels History (Verlauf ansehen). Users can organize their history by recency, search within specific timeframes, and search for videos by particular creators. Instagram notes that Reels are a core format on the platform, with billions of shares daily and a user base exceeding 3 billion. The enhancement targets both private users and creators/social media managers by enabling quick re-finding of watched content and better consumption insights, aligning with similar capabilities long available on competing apps like TikTok.
Threads tests Gems to honor valuable posts daily
Threads is testing a new feature called Gems, which awards up to 25 outstanding conversations daily with a visible diamond badge. The selection is algorithm-based, focusing on originality, timeliness, and authentic discussion, regardless of follower count. Posts or direct replies qualify, but reposts and content cross-posted from Instagram are excluded. The feature is currently limited to public US-based accounts of users aged 18 and older, though the badges are visible globally, including in Germany. Recipients get a notification and can share the badge. Users can hide the label if desired. Initial hints appeared in August via app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi. Threads aims to encourage original and engaging content, with no negative impact on reach for non-recipients.
Meta Bans TikTok Ads on Its Platforms in Multiple Regions
Meta has banned advertisements and paid marketing messages for TikTok, owned by ByteDance, on its platforms in the US, Canada, Egypt, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam, effective October 8, 2026. The ban applies to both direct ByteDance ads and third-party campaigns linking to TikTok or other ByteDance services. Meta spokesperson Chris Sgro confirmed the move, citing standard practice to avoid supporting competitors. This intensifies rivalry between the social media giants, both designated as gatekeepers under the EU's Digital Markets Act. The ban excludes EU countries, but raises questions about cross-platform advertising. It follows Meta's $16.7 billion settlement with US states over youth safety, which requires TikTok and YouTube to implement similar safeguards, suggesting a strategic pressure tactic.
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