WhatsApp is launching new features in the Updates tab, including channel subscriptions, promoted channels, and ads in Status. Users can subscribe to channels for exclusive updates and discover new ones. These features will not impact personal chats, and privacy is prioritized with end-to-end encryption. Ads will use limited information, and WhatsApp will not sell or share phone numbers. The rollout will happen over the next few months.
Threads has launched a search feature and a dedicated fediverse feed, enabling users to discover content from various independent social media servers. Users can view posts from federated users on platforms like Mastodon and WordPress. The new search function allows interaction with federated profiles directly in Threads, fostering community engagement and enhancing conversations across different platforms.
Maxine Williams, Meta’s VP of Accessibility, recognizes Global Accessibility Awareness Day by showcasing Meta's efforts to enhance accessibility. Key developments include Ray-Ban Meta glasses for the blind and low vision community, a customizable AI feature launching in the U.S. and Canada, and sEMG wristbands for improved human-computer interaction. Meta also adds live captions and speech features in its products to facilitate communication.
Meta has launched Llama 4 models, including Llama 4 Scout and Llama 4 Maverick, featuring advanced multimodal capabilities and a 10 million context window. Llama 4 Scout has 17 billion parameters and 16 experts, while Llama 4 Maverick has 128 experts and outperforms GPT-4o. Both models are available for download, and Llama 4 Behemoth, a more powerful model with 288 billion parameters, is still in training, highlighting Meta's commitment to openness in AI.
Markifact offers ready-to-use marketing workflow templates to save time and automate digital marketing tasks. It is a no-code platform that enables users to create AI-powered workflows for automating decisions and actions across various marketing channels. Scale your marketing with agentic workflows, start using Markifact now for free!
Meta for Education is now available to the public, allowing educators to utilize mixed and virtual reality with Meta Quest devices. Launched in April 2024, it offers educational apps that enhance learning through immersive experiences. Schools using this technology reported increased student engagement and improved academic performance. The program includes a headset and subscription, aiming to transform education with interactive content.
Facebook is changing its live video storage policy. From February 19th, new live broadcasts can be replayed, downloaded, or shared for 30 days before being deleted. This aligns with industry standards. Live videos older than 30 days will be removed, with notifications sent to users to download or transfer their videos within 90 days. Users can convert live videos into reels. There is also an option to postpone deletion for six months.
Meta has launched a Breakthrough bonus program for new creators on Instagram and Facebook, allowing them to earn up to $5,000. Applicants must be 18 or older, based in the U.S., and have a presence on another social app. Accepted creators can earn bonuses by sharing original reels and content over 90 days. The program offers access to Meta Verified and is mobile-only. Facebook has paid over $2 billion to creators in the past year to support their success.
Meta is rolling out an option to add WhatsApp to Accounts Center, enhancing management across Facebook, Instagram, and Meta Quest. This feature is optional and off by default, allowing easier sharing of updates across apps and single sign-on for quicker access. Future updates will include more cross-app features while ensuring privacy with end-to-end encryption for messages and calls. The rollout will be gradual, with options visible in WhatsApp settings.
WhatsApp has introduced new features and design updates to improve user experience. Users can now choose from 30 backgrounds, filters, and effects for photos and videos. The selfie sticker feature lets users create stickers from selfies, available on Android and coming to iOS. Users can share sticker packs in chats, and reactions can be made quicker by double-tapping messages. More exciting features are expected throughout the year.
