Pure SEO’s This Week In Search series takes a look at the top SEO and SEM news stories from the week.
This week Instagram added two new features, Google AdWords released a new type of shopping ad, LinkedIn made it easier to reply to messages, and Snapchat realized that sharing is caring.
Instagram has introduced a new effect for videos, following the success of the Boomerang. Dramatic zooms can now be applied automatically, by clicking on Superzoom. This icon can be found next to the Boomerang.
Long pressing the shutter button will create a dramatic zoom using either the rear or front camera; otherwise, you can create a 3-second video by tapping the shutter button. Sound effects can also be added. Once you’ve created a Superzoom, it can be added to your Instagram story.
Google has brought out Showcase Shopping ads, which allows advertisers to piece together a selection of products to be showcased in the same ad. This gives businesses the opportunity to promote and sell more products, and customers will find it easier to shop for related items.
Showcase Shopping is supported by AdWords, but it is also supported by DoubleClick Search, Kenshoo, and Marin.
The professional networking site has introduced ‘smart replies’ to its messaging platform, to help users reply to messages without the fuss of typing them out. LinkedIn says that failing to reply to messages could result in missed opportunities, which is why they’ve brought in a time-saving method.
Smart replies are suggested response you can send with an easy tap. However, note the word ‘smart’. These replies are created with the use of machine learning, making them relevant to the conversation at hand. LinkedIn will suggest at least three replies for every message received.
This feature is available worldwide to English users on the LinkedIn mobile app and desktop site.
Previously only available on Android devices, now iOS users too can share links to Snapchat. When you’re viewing content in another app, now you’ll find Snapchat as one of the apps to share to. The link can then be shared as a private message to your friend(s) in mind.
Got a friend who’s your other half? Now Instagram will let you add them to your live video, so you can clown around together online. To do this, simply start broadcasting a live video and click on the new icon at the bottom of the screen. This allows you to invite someone else to join in.
Only people who are currently watching the video will be available for invitation, but you can remove one person and add another without starting a new video. Your guest can also leave whenever they want. The split-screen video can be added to your story upon completion, and it will be recognized by two circles stacked together.
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