This week, TikTok rolls out a new AI feature that is bound to make your group selfie a bit more interesting, Instagram joins forces with The Weeknd for its first-ever unlockable Reel, and YouTube has discovered heartwarming content as the perfect place for its new AI-powered ad placements.
Meanwhile, TikTokers are pushing back against trends, and everyone’s favourite green fluffy (alien) friend is back with some out-of-this-world bangers. Read on for more social media news.
TikTok launches first image-to-video AI feature
Image credit: TikTok
TikTok is launching its first image-to-video AI feature called “AI Alive”. The feature will allow users to turn their photos into videos, but it is only available through TikTok Stories. TikTok said users can create videos with “movement, atmospheric and creative effects.” So think: moving clouds, crashing oceans, soaring birds – or just animating your group selfies.
After teasing the feature last month, Instagram has now launched lockable Reels with the first official use from musician The Weeknd, with a clip from his film “Hurry Up Tomorrow” being hidden by a locked code. It’s not broadly available yet, but if/when it does get an official release, it will open a whole new world of engagement opportunities for brands, creators and everyone in between.
YouTube has announced a series of new ad options at its 2025 Brandcast event. One new feature, called “Peak Points”, uses AI to identify emotional peaks in videos and then places ads there. YouTube is also rolling out “Cultural Moments Sponsorships”, which gives advertisers the chance to place their ads “at the heart of moments people care about” – e.g. during awards season or major sporting events. And, YouTube is also testing out “Shoppable TV” and launching a podcast chart.
