This week, YouTube leans into podcasts with a series of new features for Premium users. Meta is doubling down on subscriptions with its Plus plans rolling out globally, Pinterest gives us tips on what to wear this Summer, and Instagram brings a fan fave feature over from Edits.
Meanwhile, drinks with the gals has gotten even more fun with this new TikTok trend and Euphoria fans are still in shock after the latest episode’s twist (spoilers ahead). Read on for more social media news.
YouTube expands podcast features
Image credit: YouTube
YouTube is introducing new podcast features for Premium users. Firstly it is expanding its “Ask Music” feature to podcasts, generating recommendations based on genres, mood, or shows users already listen to. The new “Auto speed” feature automatically matches the speed of the podcast to match the talking speed of the segment. E.g. slowing down info-dense segments or speeding up slower speech to match the rest of the episode. YouTube is also adding an on-the-go mode giving users access to quick controls.
Meta is rolling out subscriptions globally for Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook. Priced at $3.99 for Facebook and Instagram Plus and $2.99 for WhatsAPP Plus, users will gain access to exclusive features tailored to each app. Meta is also testing other options like professional plans for creators and businesses, and AI-focused plans. Meta has said the “Plus” plans are not meant to replace its existing offering, Meta Verified.
YouTube is testing a new tool for musicians to let them share exclusive content with their top fans. Spotted by TubeFilter, the “Top Fans” option only shows content to the top 1% of the creator’s fanbase. The feature is still in beta testing but it looks like the fanbase will be determined by engagement with the creator. It is currently just testing with musicians but could expand to other content creators in the future.
