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⚙️ Instagram Tests More Algorithm Controls
Instagram is experimenting with new ways to give you more control over your in-app recommendations. Chief Adam Mosseri announced that the platform is testing four new access points for its “Your Algorithm” feature. This includes dragging down from the home screen, direct access between Reels, a lower function bar on recommended videos, and even conversational AI prompts to tell the system what you want to see.
However, since algorithmic feeds drive significantly more engagement, most users simply prefer to scroll rather than manually curate their settings, making this update feel slightly more like a PR exercise than a major behavioral shift.
👉 Read the full article on Social Media Today
📱 Leaked iPhone 18 Pro Photos Surface on the Dark Web
A massive data breach at Apple supplier Tata Electronics has led to leaked images and parts lists for the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro appearing on the dark web. The ransomware group “World Leaks” posted over 200,000 files following the breach in India.
The leak features drop-test videos of the new device, sporting a rumored three-camera layout and the Apple logo, as well as purported board layouts for the 18 Pro and Pro Max, plus data sheets for the upcoming A20 Pro chip.
👉 Read the full article on The Verge
🛑 Viral Deepfake of NU.nl Editor Highlights Platform Flaws
A hyper-realistic deepfake video featuring NU.nl social editor Donna Gijsman spreading fake news (claiming temperatures would reach 55 degrees) garnered 300,000 views on TikTok before it was finally removed after two days. The video, which also mimicked NOS and WNL presenters, highlights a growing threat to media integrity. Deepfake expert Zeno Geradts from the Netherlands Forensic Institute notes that AI tools like Gemini make these fakes incredibly easy to produce.
Journalists and experts are aggressively urging social media platforms to implement stronger digital checks and act faster to combat dangerous disinformation.
👉 Read the full article on NU.nl
🎵 TikTok Partners with Madonna for ‘Confessions II’ Premiere
TikTok is teaming up with pop icon Madonna for a global celebration to launch her new album, Confessions II. On July 2, Madonna will host a LIVE Premiere from her release party in London, simulcast with iHeartRadio. Joined by Bob The Drag Queen, the event will feature fan Q&As, live polls, and behind-the-scenes insights ahead of the July 3 global release.
TikTok is also launching pop-up experiences in New York and London, complete with limited-edition vinyl, cementing its role as a powerhouse for community engagement and music discovery.
👉 Read the full article on Social Media Today
🔒 WhatsApp Now Lets You Reserve Usernames
WhatsApp is officially rolling out the ability to use the app without disclosing your personal phone number to strangers. Meta has begun letting users reserve unique usernames (between 3 and 35 characters). While a phone number is still strictly required to create your account, you will soon be able to share your username instead of your digits.
Usernames won’t be searchable to prevent spam, and users can even set a “username key” that others must know in order to message them, offering a massive upgrade to user privacy.
👉 Read the full article on TechCrunch
🗓️ Newsjacking opportunities
Opportunities to celebrate this week:
- Wed 01 Jul – International Joke Day 😂
- Thu 02 Jul – World UFO Day 🛸
- Fri 03 Jul – National Stay Out Of The Sun Day 🌤️
- Sat 04 Jul – Independence From Meat Day 🥦
- Sun 05 Jul – National Bikini Day 👙
- Mon 06 Jul – International Kissing Day 💋
- Tue 07 Jul – World Chocolate Day 🍫
And next…
- Wed 08 Jul – Be a Kid Again Day 🧸
- Thu 09 Jul – Fashion Day 👗
- Fri 10 Jul – National Piña Colada Day 🍹
- Sat 11 Jul – World Population Day 👥
- Sun 12 Jul – Paper Bag Day 🛍️
- Mon 13 Jul – International Rock Day 🪨
- Tue 14 Jul – World Chimpanzee Day 🐒
Anything else you would like to discuss and see for next week’s social newsflash? Just share it with me via e-mail or slide in my LinkedIn comments or DM.
And don’t forget to subscribe to our Weekly Social Round Up newsletter so you get this delivered directly into your inbox each week!
Until the next one. XoXo, Erik 👋
