Google rolls out March 2025 core algorithm update
Google is rolling out the first core update of 2025. The search giant confirmed on Thursday (13 March) that the latest algorithm tweak—the first since December’s core update—is now live and will take around two weeks to complete.
In a LinkedIn post, Google said: “This is a regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites. We also continue our work to surface more content from creators through a series of improvements throughout this year. Some have already happened; additional ones will come later.”
TikTok most downloaded app globally in February
TikTok’s long-running legal battle in the US doesn’t appear to be stalling its momentum elsewhere. The ByteDance-owned app was the most downloaded mobile app—not just social media—in the world last month, with around 42 million downloads across iOS and Android.
Other social media heavyweights Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp also featured in the top five alongside ChatGPT. Interestingly, Threads was the second-most downloaded app on iOS but didn’t appear in the overall top ten.
Meta to start testing Community Notes on 18 March
Meta has confirmed that Community Notes will enter its testing phase this week. The new system will allow users on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads to provide additional context to posts that may be misleading or unhelpful. It will work similarly to the Community Notes feature on X, which Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg has referenced.
Around 200,000 people have already signed up across the three apps to take part in the trial, which begins on Tuesday. Once it launches, participants will be able to rate and write notes of up to 500 characters on posts. Meta believes the ‘community’ can act as a form of moderation.
Oracle leads race to buy TikTok US
With less than a month to go until TikTok’s ban extension expires, new reports last week claimed that Oracle is the “leading contender” to acquire the social app’s US operations.
The Information reported that Oracle is close to finalising a deal brokered by former US President Donald Trump. TikTok is allegedly satisfied with the development. The two companies have previously worked together on data projects.
Google plans more Search personalisation with Gemini
The newly updated Gemini will integrate with Google’s other services, including YouTube, Photos, and users’ search history, later this year in an effort to deliver more relevant recommendations.
Google says: “This will enable Gemini to provide more personalised insights, drawing from a broader understanding of your activities and preferences to deliver responses that truly resonate with you.”
The closer integration will arrive in the “coming months”. Users can activate the feature, which is labelled as “experimental”, by navigating to the Gemini app, enabling it in settings, and accepting the permissions.
