X adds 4K video uploads
Higher-quality video uploads have finally arrived on X. The social media app added a new 4K option for clips on Thursday (19 May) after a successful trial period with selected creators. Elon Musk originally stated that 4K support was coming back in 2023 as part of the shift away from Twitter to an “everything app.”
Users only read a third of Google’s AI Overviews
Google’s AI Overviews (AIOs) might not provide the depth of information users require. A new UX study has found that most people skim-read around 30% of AIOs and rarely click through to any of the citations listed. Instead, users are more likely to go to Reddit, YouTube, or forums to validate their findings.
More worrying for publishers is that click-through rates to websites plummet by 50% when overviews are presented. This mirrors evidence from other studies on the impact of AIOs on organic search listings.
Google launches ‘Generative AI Leader’ cert
Google’s artificial intelligence push continues unabated. Now, the tech giant has announced a certification programme called ‘Generative AI Leader’. The course targets non-technical professionals who need to brush up on their AI skills for job roles.
The programme features free training materials with a final exam costing $99. Topics covered include the ‘fundamentals of generative AI’ and the ways Google tools can help with different forms of AI-powered work.
Social media marketing budgets up 9%
Companies are spending much more on social media. A new study by Deloitte has found that budgets jumped 9% last year, with content, community, and conversions a top priority. However, achieving success remains an issue: brands only hit two-thirds of their objectives.
The age of the mega-influencer is over, too. The study found that more than eight in ten big brands now prefer to use either micro or mid-tier creators, who tend to have a more concentrated, engaged audience.
Threads adds new bio link options
Users can now add up to five links in their profile bios on Threads. The new feature is designed to appeal to creators and publishers who use multiple platforms to publish content. The Meta-owned social app is also rolling out enhanced analytics to help users track the number of clicks their links generate.
Shorts a major success for YouTube
YouTube’s decision to follow TikTok and introduce a short-form content format has paid off. The company’s CEO revealed last week that Shorts now generate more revenue per hour watched than standard, long-form content. Viewing numbers of Shorts have also soared 20% since a year ago, and seven in ten channels now produce or reformat clips for the swipeable format.
