14th February 2025

Weekly Prompt: BuzzFeed unveils BF Island social media space and other news

BuzzFeed unveils "BF Island" social media platform

BuzzFeed is developing a new social media platform called "BF Island," designed to prioritize creativity and connection. Announced by founder and CEO Jonah Peretti, the platform aims to offer a distinct approach to social media. Peretti believes that existing platforms often prioritize content that thrives on "Stakes, Novelty, Anger, Retention, and Fear" (SNARF), and hopes BF Island can offer a different kind of experience.

BF Island will incorporate interactive storytelling, novel content formats, and AI tools. The platform will initially launch as a private beta later this year, with early testers influencing its development. BuzzFeed plans to utilize a freemium model for BF Island, offering basic features for free and more advanced features via subscription.

The company is currently building the platform with a small team of existing employees. BuzzFeed hopes BF Island will become a joyful space for online connection.

Sources: Axios, MediaPost, Social Media today

Additional prompts

Amazon tests external retailer links. Amazon is testing a new feature in its mobile app that redirects US shoppers to external retailers' websites for products not stocked by Amazon. This pilot programme aims to improve customer experience and potentially counter competition from rivals like Temu and Shein. Select products from participating brands will appear in search results with links to their websites, allowing customers to browse, compare prices, and purchase directly. The feature, currently limited to a subset of US mobile app users, displays product information sourced directly from retailers, alongside Amazon's own offerings. Amazon states no personal data will be shared with external brands. Participating brands may or may not offer Buy with Prime, Amazon's checkout service. The test will expand based on user feedback. Read more on TechCrunch

LinkedIn boosts video features. LinkedIn is bolstering its video features following a 100% year-on-year increase in video creation on the platform. With video uploads up 36%, LinkedIn is testing a full-screen vertical video display for mobile and web users. Enhanced video search results, including a video carousel and creator profile previews, are also being introduced. For creators, LinkedIn is developing analytics tools to track average video watch times. These developments follow the successful integration of AI-powered video ads, Live Events video promotions, and video ads alongside publisher content in 2024. The platform aims to leverage video's power to build trust and inform B2B buying decisions, particularly given the rise of AI-generated content. Read more on MediaPost

Snapchat+ adds new AI Features. Snapchat is rolling out new generative AI features for its Snapchat+ premium subscribers, aiming to boost user engagement and interaction. The update includes AI-powered custom stickers created from in-chat text, offering a new way to personalize messaging. A "movie poster" feature lets users insert themselves into various film genres, encouraging creative visual expression. Snapchat is also introducing non-replayable Snaps, adding a sense of urgency and gamification to the messaging experience. These additions suggest Snapchat's focus on leveraging AI to enhance interactivity and provide users with novel communication tools. Read more on Social Media Today

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