Observed Signal · May 22, 2025 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Instagram Tests Splash Screen for Story Suggestions
Instagram is experimenting with a Splash Screen that displays multiple Story options from creators to increase visibility. The test presents round Story thumbnails in a dedicated overview screen, arranged on a dark background, allowing users to tap into specific creators’ Stories. App researcher Radu Oncescu identified the feature and shared a screenshot; the test appears limited to a subset of users and is not yet broadly available. If rolled out, the screen could sit alongside or inside the Story Tray to show several Story options at a glance. Instagram emphasizes that Stories remain highly relevant, citing signals such as tap, like, or reply as ranking factors. The article notes additional engagement options like sharing Reels to Stories or WhatsApp, and reminds creators to avoid posting too many Stories per day, as excessive posting can hurt reach.
Limited feature test with potential impact on creator reach if rolled out; not yet widely deployed
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Instagram is testing a Splash Screen that shows multiple Story options from creators.
- The feature appears as a dedicated overview screen with round Story thumbnails on a dark background.
- App researcher Radu Oncescu discovered the feature and shared a screenshot.
- Test is limited to a subset of users and not yet widely available.
- If widely rolled out, the screen may be accessible via the Story Tray and show multiple Story options at a glance.
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Windows 11 Search Upgrade, Copilot Gets File Access
Microsoft announced two upcoming updates for Windows 11: an enhanced search feature and expanded Copilot capabilities. The new search allows users to directly adjust settings like dark mode, take screenshots, and change volume from the search bar, with future ability to compose and send messages. Copilot's 'Hybrid Intelligence' feature, introduced at a Microsoft event, enables the AI to access local files and perform actions across the OS, such as finding, renaming, zipping documents, and attaching them to emails. Jacob Andreou, EVP of Copilot, demonstrated this in a tax return example. The rollout will be gradual, requiring user permission for file access. The search upgrade is expected later this year, with no exact date specified.
Instagram Edits App Now Supports Carousel Creation
Instagram's Edits app now allows creators to create Carousel posts directly within the app, according to an announcement by Instagram's Creators account via Instagram and Threads. The feature is available immediately for iOS users, with an Android version expected soon. In a broadcast channel, Instagram head Adam Mosseri confirmed that users can mix photos and videos on any slide, connect images across slides, and use the same stickers, text effects, and cutouts used in video editing. This functionality aims to streamline content creation and boost engagement, as Carousels remain a popular format on the platform. Additionally, the Edits AI Assistant, which provides video ideas based on account metrics, is currently available only in the US. Meta continues to enhance its creator tools to support social media marketing efforts.
OpenAI Launches Visual Ads in ChatGPT
OpenAI has announced the launch of visual ads within ChatGPT, marking a significant step in monetizing its popular AI assistant. The new ad format allows advertisers to display visual content directly in chat interactions, targeting users based on conversational context. This move positions OpenAI as a major player in the digital advertising space, leveraging its vast user base and advanced AI capabilities. The ads are expected to be non-intrusive and relevant, with OpenAI emphasizing user experience and privacy. This development could reshape the AdTech landscape by introducing a new, highly engaged channel for brands. No specific partners, launch dates, or revenue models were mentioned in the available content, which was largely a headline summary.
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