Facebook recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades since its launch by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates at Harvard University. Since its inception, Facebook has grown into the world’s largest social media network, boasting more than three billion monthly active users. This milestone reflects Facebook’s journey from a college networking site to a global social media giant, now known as Meta Platforms, Inc., which includes other products and services like Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp. The platform has faced its share of challenges, including issues related to data privacy and user safety, notably the Cambridge Analytica scandal. Despite these challenges, Meta continues to innovate, investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI) and planning to launch its AI chips, “Artemis,” to support generative AI products across its platforms.
Instagram, owned by Meta, has introduced several new features and updates for 2024. These include testing out location tags in Notes, launching a new app called Threads to compete directly with Twitter, and exploring a group profile feature to allow multiple users to collaborate and share content on a single page. Instagram has also updated its bio section to allow multiple links, made it possible to schedule posts within the app, and introduced an ad-free feed option. Additionally, all new video posts on Instagram will now be Reels, and users can pin posts to the top of their IG grid. Despite these updates, Instagram continues to evolve its algorithm and enhance user engagement across its platform.
These developments underscore both platforms’ efforts to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape, focusing on user engagement, safety, and innovation.
