Observed Signal · Jul 13, 2023 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Instagram Tests Friend's Story Feature
A new Instagram Story feature called Friend's Story is reported to be in testing. The detail comes from social‑tech researcher Alessandro Paluzzi, who posted a tweet with a screenshot showing the feature alongside existing sharing options, though Instagram has not officially announced it. The article notes this potential capability could allow stories visible only to mutual followers, and frames it as part of broader feature experimentation on Instagram. In addition to Friend's Story, Instagram has recently rolled out Broadcast Channel Updates in Stories for creators, and users can now view Story Likes for up to 48 hours. The piece also mentions that Instagram may enable sharing of complete Reels up to 60 seconds within Stories.
Technical release/test of a major platform feature (Instagram/Meta).
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Friend's Story is a new sharing option for Instagram Stories currently in testing.
- Alessandro Paluzzi posted a teaser on Twitter with a screenshot of the feature.
- Instagram has not officially announced Friend's Story yet.
- Broadcast Channel Updates can be shared in Stories (launched in recent months).
- Instagram may enable sharing of full Reels up to 60 seconds in Stories.
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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.
Xbox Launches TV & Film Division; Meta Tests Link Restrictions
This AdExchanger news roundup covers three major stories. Xbox has unveiled a new TV and film division named XP, led by Kayleen Walters, to explore monetization opportunities including formalizing sponsorships and brand partnerships. Separately, Meta is testing Meta One, a subscription bundle, and has begun charging non-subscribed business pages for including more than two external links in posts, with news pages currently exempt. Additionally, the article discusses the trend of mid-sized independent agencies merging into hybrid holding companies, citing Wpromote's acquisition of Giant Spoon, Chemistry's acquisition of Colossus, and Acadia's purchase of Crush, as competitive pressures from larger groups like Omnicom-IPG and Publicis intensify.
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