Digital Dose: TikTok in the US and Instagram Updates

Welcome to your dose of trending news from the digital universe, courtesy of the Spectrum Science Innovation Team. 

In this edition of Digital Dose, we’re diving into TikTok’s work in building a new version of its app ahead of anticipated sales with the US and Instagram’s latest update in allowing search engines to index public posts from professional accounts. 

TikTok building new version of app ahead of expected US sale 

On July 6, TikTok revealed its plans to build a new version of the app for those living in the United States, with the intention of launching in September. Amid potential talks between China and President Donald Trump on the anticipated sale of the app, American TikTok users may need to use this version of the app to retain access the platform. Read More. 

Why it matters: While the fate of TikTok in the United States has been ever-evolving, this report signifies a likelihood for a dramatic new shift, essentially creating an American spinoff of the original TikTok app. This ongoing dialogue is likely to impact how American audiences interact on popular social media platforms. 

As these developments come to fruition, companies should remain closely aware of any impacts to how separating users in the US from other regions of the world may impact performance, visibility within the algorithm and target audience strategies. 

Instagram to let popular search engines index public posts from professional accounts 

Beginning July 10, Instagram announced that it will now allow search engines to index professional public content in their search results. This means that posts, reels, and videos from accounts that are both public and professional will now have visibility for users browsing the internet without requiring them to log in or establish an account. Read More. 

Why it matters: Previously, Instagram content was solely kept within the confines of its app and users. Now, it’s joined the ranks of other indexed social platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn, implementing SEO capabilities as the demand for social-based searches continues to grow. This change opens a new door for increased visibility, discovery, and marketability for those with public and professional Instagram accounts, exposing companies and their short-form content to the open web and user queries. 

If eligible accounts choose to allow this optional setting, companies should consider how this may influence reach and target audiences. It’s important to review specific social media strategies and adjust this framework as needed to align with platform settings as well as this new visibility in the health landscape. 

Interested in more? Don’t miss these additional digital headlines: 

• YouTube Enables Creators to Share More Data with Brands [Social Media Today]

• Threads is Nearing X’s Daily App Users, New Data Shows [TechCrunch]

• Bluesky Gives Users More Control Over Notifications [Social Media Today]

• Not Everyone is Thrilled with Threads’ DMs [TechCrunch]

Have questions or comments on the content of this blog? Contact us.