Observed Signal · Nov 26, 2024 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Threads Tests Default Feed Setting; Bluesky Reacts
Threads is testing a feature that lets users designate a default feed, enabling prioritization of the For You, Following, or Custom Feeds. The update includes a new search function and a three-dot menu to add topics and followed accounts, with feeds reorderable so the top feed appears on the next app open. Custom Feeds, recently rolled out to all users, allow bundling topics and accounts into personalized streams. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg publicly announced the test, signaling ongoing experimentation. Bluesky countered with a call to join an open network that offers greater user control. The piece frames Threads within a competitive landscape alongside Bluesky and X, noting Bluesky’s growth and Threads’ push toward improved feed personalization and updated ranking toward followed content. Rollout timing remains unclear, and no fixed date is given for universal availability.
Major platform feature test on Meta's Threads; potential impact on feed personalization and cross-platform competition.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Threads is testing a default feed setting (For You, Following or Custom Feeds).
- New search function and three-dot menu enable adding topics or accounts into feeds.
- Feeds can be rearranged so the top feed appears on next app open.
- Custom Feeds were recently introduced to all users for personalized bundles.
- Bluesky responded to the announcement with a call for an open network.
Connected Companies & Entities
2 Entities mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Grok Bot Searches X, Integrates Rival AI Models
SpaceXAI has enhanced its AI agent Grok Bot with the ability to continuously search and analyze the entire X platform. Users can now deploy the agent for 24/7 social listening, brand monitoring, and trend analysis, similar to Google's Information Agents. Grok Bot will also integrate other AI models from competitors, such as Claude Opus 5.5, Midjourney, and Suno, depending on the task. This move signals a shift towards multi-model AI agents and expands the capabilities of AI-driven social media analytics.
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.
Global ad market grows 11.9% in 2026; print, TV weak
According to Warc Media's forecast, the global advertising market is set to grow by 11.9% in 2026 to $1.34 trillion, following 10% growth in 2024 and 2025. Key growth drivers include investments in AI and major events like the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup. Social media will see the strongest growth at 21.3% to $394.6 billion, followed by VOD, retail media, search, and DOOH. Traditional media declines: TV down 1.8%, print down 0.9%, and radio down 3.0%. Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta will capture a combined 59.7% of global ad spend outside China. The growth is expected to normalize to 8.4% in 2027 and 7.9% in 2028. AI is reshaping targeting, creative, and campaign optimization, and creating new ad environments like generative search.
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