Picture you’re scrolling through your phone, and a new app pops up that feels like a buddy who knows you inside out. That’s the vibe Meta’s going for with its shiny new Meta AI app, launched on April 29, 2025. This isn’t just a chatbot tucked away in your Facebook or Instagram DMs—it’s a standalone app, powered by Meta’s latest brainiac tech, Llama 4, ready to make your life easier, funnier, and maybe even a little artsier. Announced with a big splash at Meta’s first-ever LlamaCon in Menlo Park, California, this app is Mark Zuckerberg’s latest bet on making AI feel like your best friend.

Your AI, Your Way

What makes this app special? It’s like having a personal assistant who’s been sneaking peeks at your Instagram likes and Facebook posts (don’t worry, it’s all above board). By linking to your social accounts, Meta AI gets a sense of who you are—your love for hiking, your obsession with tacos, or that time you posted about your dog’s birthday. You can even tell it stuff like, “Hey, remember I’m planning a trip to Japan,” and it’ll keep that in mind for next time. It’s not just a chatbot; it’s a chatbot with a memory.

The app’s “Discover” feed is where things get really fun. It’s like scrolling through a social media feed, but instead of cat videos, you see cool prompts and AI creations from other users. Think of it as a playground for ideas—someone might share how they used Meta AI to write a poem, and you can try it too. “It’s all about learning from each other,” said Chris Cox, Meta’s product boss, at LlamaCon. It’s less stiff than other AI apps and feels more like hanging out.

Talk, Create, Explore

Powered by Llama 4, this app is a serious upgrade. It’s smarter, speaks more languages, and doesn’t hog your phone’s battery. You can type or talk to it, and in places like the US or Australia, the voice mode is like chatting with a friend who doesn’t interrupt (dreamy, right?). The microphone glows when it’s listening, so you can ramble about your day while cooking dinner.

Then there’s the creative side. Want to turn your selfie into a cartoon straight out of a Pixar movie? Done. Or maybe you’re feeling silly and ask for a picture of Spider-Man eating pizza with a unicorn. Meta AI’s got you. It can also edit images or whip up new ones from scratch. Plus, it can hop online to suggest things like the best coffee shops in your city or the latest headlines, though it’s not glued to the internet 24/7.

Oh, and if you’ve got Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses, the app doubles as your glasses’ control hub, making it a seamless sidekick whether you’re on your phone or out exploring.

Standing Out in the AI Crowd

Meta’s not the first to launch an AI app—ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and xAI’s Grok are already out there, duking it out. But Meta’s got a secret weapon: you. With billions of people already on its platforms, Meta AI is built to feel familiar. It’s been helping folks write posts or edit photos on Instagram and WhatsApp since 2023, and now it’s stepping into the spotlight. After launching, the app shot to No. 2 on the iPhone’s free download charts, so clearly, people are curious.

Zuckerberg’s big dream? Making Meta AI the most popular AI assistant out there. With 400 million people already using it across Meta’s apps, the standalone version is a way to say, “Hey, this isn’t just a side feature—it’s a big deal.”

The Catch: Ads and Privacy

Right now, the app’s free on Android, iOS, and desktop, but don’t be surprised if ads or a “premium” version pop up later. Zuckerberg mentioned on a recent earnings call that Meta might offer a souped-up version for power users, kind of like what ChatGPT does. They’re also thinking about slipping in product recommendations, which makes sense for a company that’s all about ads.

But here’s where it gets tricky: privacy. Since the app pulls from your Facebook and Instagram data, it knows a lot about you. That’s great for personalized answers but can feel a bit Big Brother-ish. Meta says it’s careful about not spilling your secrets, but they also warn you not to share anything super private, like your bank details. Some folks, like a Washington Post writer, have called it “surveillance with a smile.” It’s something to keep in mind as you dive in.

Why It Matters

The Meta AI app isn’t just a cool new toy—it’s a glimpse into where tech’s headed. At LlamaCon, Meta also rolled out tools for developers, showing they’re serious about building a whole AI universe. Some coders grumbled that they wanted bigger tech upgrades, but for regular users, the app’s a fun, easy way to play with AI.

Meta’s betting big on this, with $42 billion in revenue last quarter and plans to pour up to $72 billion into AI tech. That’s a lot of faith in a future where AI’s as normal as checking your notifications.

Imagine scrolling through Amazon, eyeing a new phone case or a pair of sneakers, when suddenly you notice something odd: right next to the price, there’s a little breakout showing how much of it comes from tariffs. That’s the bombshell Punchbowl News dropped on April 29, 2025, claiming Amazon was gearing up to do just that—highlighting tariff costs on its website. It felt like a bold move, especially with President Trump’s hefty new tariffs on Chinese goods jacking up prices for so many of the things we buy online. But before anyone could even process it, the White House came out swinging, Amazon backpedaled hard, and the whole thing turned into a wild drama.

The White House Freaks Out

Picture this: it’s morning at the White House, and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is at the podium, fuming. She called the reported plan a “hostile and political act,” basically accusing Amazon of playing dirty by pointing fingers at Trump’s tariffs. She even threw shade, asking why Amazon didn’t pull this stunt when prices were skyrocketing under Biden’s inflation. Things got spicier when she brought up an old 2021 report about Amazon’s supposed ties to Chinese propaganda, making it sound fresh. And then, in a classic Trump move, the president himself picked up the phone and called Jeff Bezos. Trump later bragged about it, saying Bezos “solved the problem very quickly” and “did the right thing.” Talk about high-stakes drama!

Amazon’s Quick U-Turn

Amazon wasn’t about to let this storm rage. Their spokesperson, Tim Doyle, shut it down fast, saying, “This was never approved and is not going to happen.” Turns out, the idea wasn’t even for the main Amazon site—it was just something they were kicking around for Haul, their new budget platform that’s trying to take on Temu and Shein. Nothing had been rolled out, and Amazon made it crystal clear they weren’t going there. The news hit their stock, though, which dipped 2% before the market even opened. You could almost feel the panic in the boardroom as they scrambled to clear the air.

Why This All Matters

Let’s zoom out. Trump’s tariffs are no joke—145% on Chinese imports, 10% on everything else, and even 25% on Canada and Mexico (though those got paused). Plus, they killed a loophole that let cheap Chinese shipments slide in duty-free. For the folks selling on Amazon—many of whom get their stuff from China—this is a gut punch. Up to 70% of what’s sold on Amazon comes from there, and now sellers are stuck with higher costs. Some are hiking prices (one report said 900 products jumped 29% already), while others are skipping big sales like Prime Day or cutting discounts to stay afloat.

I talked to a friend who sells kitchen gadgets on Amazon, and she’s stressed. “It’s like choosing between losing money or losing customers,” she said. She’s trying to find suppliers in Vietnam, but that’s not a quick fix. Meanwhile, Amazon’s CEO, Andy Jassy, admitted on CNBC that sellers are probably going to pass these costs on to us, the shoppers. So, yeah, that $20 phone case might soon be $25.

The Bigger Picture

This whole tariff-display mess isn’t just about Amazon. It’s about how Trump’s trade war is hitting our wallets. Economists, including Fed Chair Jerome Powell, are sounding alarms about inflation and slower growth. A recent poll showed half of us are freaking out about pricier groceries and big purchases, and a lot of folks are pointing at these tariffs. When Amazon even thought about showing tariff costs, it was like they were trying to be real with us—maybe even taking a cue from folks like Chuck Schumer, who’s been pushing retailers to spell out what tariffs are doing to prices.

But the White House wasn’t having it. They saw it as a jab, especially since Bezos has been cozying up to Trump lately (Amazon even donated to his inauguration fund). It’s like Amazon got caught in a political tug-of-war, trying to keep customers happy while not ticking off the guy in charge.

Picture a social media app that feels like a breath of fresh air, where you’re not just another number fed into a faceless algorithm. That’s Bluesky, the underdog platform that’s been turning heads and stealing users from giants like X and Threads. Born from a spark of an idea by Twitter’s former boss, Jack Dorsey, in 2019, Bluesky started as a quirky, invite-only experiment. Fast forward to April 2025, and it’s a global sensation with over 33 million users—up from just 13 million in October 2024. So, what’s behind this rocket-like rise? Let’s dive into the story of Bluesky’s growth, the features that make it feel like home, and why it’s got everyone buzzing.

A Wild Ride to Millions

Bluesky’s growth feels like something out of a movie. In just three months last year, it added 15.9 million users—think 167,000 new faces joining every single day. By March 2025, it hit 33 million users, and if things keep up, it could soar to 53 million by year’s end. That’s one new user every second! So, what sparked this frenzy?

For starters, people were fed up. The 2024 U.S. election stirred up chaos on X, and changes like tweaking the block button and using user posts to train AI didn’t sit well. Then, when X got temporarily banned in Brazil in August 2024, 2.6 million Brazilians jumped ship to Bluesky in a single week. Now, Brazil’s the second-biggest market (21% of traffic), just behind the U.S. (27%). Add in folks from Japan and the UK, and you’ve got a global party.

The vibe? Young, curious, and a bit nerdy. Almost half of Bluesky’s users are 18–24, and 62% are under 34. It’s got a tech-bro lean (62% male), but the real magic is how hooked people are. Users spend over 10 minutes per session, racking up 1.28 billion posts by March 2025. It’s not just a stopover—it’s a place people want to stay.

Features That Feel Like a Hug

Bluesky isn’t your typical social app. It’s built on something called the AT Protocol, which is a fancy way of saying it’s decentralized—think of it as a platform where you, not a corporate overlord, call the shots. Instead of one algorithm shoving content down your throat, Bluesky offers a “marketplace” of 50,000+ community-made feeds. Want a feed just for cat memes or indie music? You got it. Here’s what else makes Bluesky feel so personal:

1. Trending Topics and a Smarter “Explore”

Last December, Bluesky started testing a “Trending Topics” feature that spots what’s hot in real-time—no shady algorithms needed. By April 2025, it morphed into the “Explore” tab, a one-stop shop for finding cool accounts, curated feeds, and trending conversations. It’s like stumbling into a lively coffee shop where you instantly find your people.

2. Videos That Pop

Bluesky knows we’re all suckers for a good video. In March 2025, they rolled out support for three-minute clips and a TikTok-style vertical video feed. Plus, a new video tab on profiles lets you show off your reels. The beta “Trending Videos” feature is a hit, with 2.5 million videos posted in November 2024 alone. It’s proof Bluesky’s ready to play with the big dogs.

3. Verification That Feels Fair

On April 21, 2025, Bluesky dropped a verification system that’s less about buying clout and more about trust. Big names like The New York Times or WIRED can verify accounts with a scalloped blue checkmark, while regular verified users get a circular one. For journalists and creators, it’s a game-changer, especially since Bluesky loves links (unlike some platforms that bury them).

4. Starter Packs for Newbies

Joining a new app can feel like showing up to a party where everyone’s already friends. Bluesky’s “Starter Packs” fix that, curating lists of accounts and feeds to match your vibe—whether you’re into gaming, politics, or art. It’s helped onboard waves of new users, especially when celebs like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (1.9 million followers) or Mark Hamill joined the fun.

5. Keeping It Kind

Nobody wants a toxic online swamp. Bluesky’s serious about keeping things civil, handling 6.48 million moderation reports in 2024 alone (1.75 million for harassment or trolling). Tools like detachable quote posts, DM spam filters, and the Ozone feature (launched in 2024) let users create their own moderation rules. With 100 moderators and smart automation, they’re tackling issues fast while letting humans handle the tricky stuff.

Bumps in the Road

Bluesky’s not perfect. Growth slowed a bit in December 2024, dropping from a wild 189% to 10% month-over-month, showing it’s tough to keep the pedal to the metal. Bots, fake accounts, and gripes about moderation have popped up—especially when Brazil’s influx led to 50,000 daily reports. Some users even protested over deleted posts, but Bluesky’s working on it, planning in-app reporting and appeals for 2025.

Content moderation is a tightrope. In 2024, they slapped 5.5 million labels on posts, including 55,000 for “sexual” content and 11,000 for “intolerant” stuff. It’s a lot, but their transparency (weekly moderation reports!) keeps users in the loop. They’re also hinting at a paid tier—maybe $8 a month—for perks like better video uploads, though the core app will stay free.

The Secret Sauce

With just 20 full-time staff working remotely, Bluesky’s lean and mean. They’ve got $23 million in funding, including a $15 million boost in 2024, and a new round from Bain Capital Ventures could peg their value at $700 million. As a Public Benefit Corporation, they’re not chasing Wall Street’s approval—they’re here to make social media better.

Bluesky’s also a haven for journalists, researchers, and publishers. Since October 2024, 395,000 posts linked to research papers, and media outlets love that links aren’t demoted. It’s like a digital town square where ideas actually matter.

Picture this: you’re scrolling through your phone, and a 15-second video of a dog attempting to skateboard has you grinning like an idiot. Thirty seconds later, you’re in a group chat with your best friends, laughing over an inside joke that only makes sense to you guys. Welcome to social media in 2025, where short-form videos and private group platforms are stealing the show—and honestly, it feels like they’re speaking straight to our souls.

Why Short-Form Videos Are Our New Obsession

Let’s be real: we’re all a little distracted these days. Between work, notifications, and the chaos of life, sitting through a 10-minute YouTube vlog feels like a commitment. That’s where TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels swoop in like superheroes. They’re quick, punchy, and somehow know exactly what we’re in the mood for—whether it’s a cooking hack, a dance fail, or a stranger’s heartfelt story.

By April 2025, these platforms are basically running the internet. TikTok’s got over 1.5 billion people hooked, and YouTube Shorts is racking up billions of views every single day. Social Media Today reported on TikTok’s massive growth, and it’s no surprise why. They’re so darn easy to love. You don’t need fancy equipment or a film degree to make something awesome—just a phone and a vibe. I mean, how many times have you watched a random person’s “day in my life” clip and thought, “Wow, I feel seen”?

There’s something raw about these videos, too. They’re not overly polished—they’re real, messy, human. That’s why we keep coming back, whether we’re laughing at a meme or tearing up over a stranger’s adoption story. Even brands are jumping in, with everyone from Starbucks to your local coffee shop posting Reels that feel like they’re chatting with you, not selling you something.

But let’s not pretend it’s all smooth sailing. For creators, standing out in the scroll is like trying to shout in a thunderstorm. And don’t get me started on making money—platforms like TikTok can be stingy with payouts, which is a bummer when you’re pouring your heart into every clip. Still, short-form videos are where the party’s at, and we’re all invited.

Private Groups: Where We Actually Feel at Home

Now, let’s talk about the flip side—those cozy corners of the internet where we can just be ourselves. I’m talking about private group platforms like WhatsApp, Discord, and Telegram, or even those invite-only Reddit threads and Meta Groups. These days, when I’m done doomscrolling X or dodging hot takes on Instagram, it’s my group chats and servers that pull me back in.

In 2025, WhatsApp’s got over 2 billion of us glued to our screens, mostly because of group chats that feel like family (or at least, the fun kind of family). Discord’s blowing up, too, with servers for everything from gaming to book clubs to “I just love plants, okay?” TechCrunch recently noted Discord’s skyrocketing popularity, and it’s easy to see why. It’s like the internet’s version of hanging out in your friend’s basement—no judgment, just vibes.

Why are we so obsessed? Because public social media can feel like a stage sometimes. You’re shouting into the void, hoping someone cares, but it’s exhausting. Private groups are different. They’re where you share the dumb memes, vent about your day, or geek out over your latest hobby without worrying about going viral or getting canceled. It’s you and your people, and that’s enough.

Businesses are catching on, too. I’ve seen brands pop into WhatsApp chats to answer questions or host giveaways on Discord like they’re one of us. Creators are doing it, too, setting up private spaces on Signal or Patreon where their biggest fans can hang out and feel special. It’s less about clout and more about connection, and I’m here for it.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Some groups can turn into echo chambers, where everyone just agrees and no one challenges anything. And yeah, privacy’s always a worry—nobody wants their group chat drama leaking. But when you find the right space, it’s like the internet equivalent of a warm hug.

What This All Means for Us

So here we are, bouncing between viral videos that make us laugh in seconds and group chats that make us feel known for years. Short-form videos are our quick fix—they’re fun, they’re real, they’re us on our best days. Private groups, though? They’re where we go when we need to recharge, to remind ourselves we’ve got people in our corner.

Picture this: you’re scrolling through LinkedIn, sipping your morning coffee, when something new catches your eye—a trending video about “the one skill every leader needs.” You tap it, watch a quick clip from a CEO you admire, and think, “Hey, I’ve got something to say about that too.” With a tap, your phone’s camera is rolling, and suddenly, you’re part of the conversation. That’s the vibe LinkedIn is going for with its new trending video feature, launched in early April 2025. It’s shaking things up on a platform that’s long been about polished resumes and typed-out updates, and honestly, it feels like a breath of fresh air.

So, What’s This New Feature All About?

Here’s the gist: LinkedIn is testing a way to spotlight trending videos, grouping them under topics that are lighting up the platform right now. Think “AI hacks for small businesses” or “my worst job interview ever”—stuff that’s relatable and real. If you’re in the U.S., you might see these popping up in your feed with little header tags or a shiny new “Video” tab. Spot a trend you like? You can dive into a stream of clips from other professionals or hit “Add to this trend” and record your own take. It’s simple, it’s fast, and it’s got that spontaneous energy we usually see on TikTok—but with a suit-and-tie twist.

I love how it feels less staged than the usual LinkedIn fare. Instead of crafting a 500-word post, you’re just talking to your phone, sharing a quick tip or a funny story from the trenches. It’s like those watercooler chats we used to have, only now they’re digital and everyone’s invited.

Why Video? Why Now?

LinkedIn’s been dropping hints about this shift for a while. They’ve seen a 36% jump in video views over the past year—people like me and you are watching more clips from peers and experts instead of just skimming articles. “Videos are quickly becoming a favorite way for our members to learn from each other,” a LinkedIn rep told Social Media Today. And it makes sense. After years of remote work and Zoom fatigue, we’re craving something more human than a wall of text. Video lets you see the person behind the profile—their smile, their quirks, their passion.

Plus, let’s be real: short-form video is everywhere. Ever since TikTok took over our screens, every platform’s been racing to keep up. LinkedIn already dipped its toes in with a vertical video feed last year, and now they’re doubling down. They want to grab your attention in those fleeting moments—like when you’re waiting for your lunch order—and make it worth your while.

How It Feels to Use It

I got a sneak peek at how it works (thanks to some lucky U.S. testers spilling the tea online), and it’s pretty slick. You’re scrolling, you see a trend like “my morning routine as a founder,” and you’re instantly hooked watching a mix of videos—some polished, some raw. There’s a button begging you to join in, and before you know it, you’re filming a quick clip about how you can’t start the day without your dog begging for a walk. LinkedIn’s team—part human, part AI—keeps the trends fresh and relevant, so it’s not just random noise.

For them, it’s a big swing. If this takes off, LinkedIn could become the place where professionals not only network but hang out and swap stories. I can see brands jumping in too—imagine a startup founder sharing a goofy “day in the life” video that goes viral. But there’s a chance it could flop if people start posting cringey stuff that feels out of place. I’m rooting for them to keep it real and not let it turn into a corporate ad fest.

What People Are Saying

The early chatter is electric. I saw a post on X from someone who said, “LinkedIn trending videos are about to make me actually use this app daily.” Another user joked, “Finally, a reason to dust off my webcam.” Even the pros are buzzing—Lindsey Gamble, a social media guru, thinks it could turn LinkedIn into a content playground instead of just a job board. A LinkedIn spokesperson even got in on the fun, posting a video saying, “Jump on a trend, and if it’s good, we might just boost it.” That’s the kind of nudge that could get shy creators like me to hit record.

I can already picture my network lighting up—my old coworker sharing a “worst client ever” story, or my mentor dropping a two-minute gem about resilience. It’s personal, it’s messy, it’s human—and that’s what’s got me excited.

Where’s This Going?

Right now, it’s just a test run for some U.S. users as of April 8, 2025. No word yet on when—or if—it’ll roll out to the rest of us. I’m guessing they’ll tweak it based on what sticks, maybe add some cool extras like stats for creators (I’d love to know how many people watched my ramble about burnout). If it works, I bet we’ll see it everywhere, maybe even with brands paying to sponsor trends like “future of work.”

Picture this: You’re scrolling Instagram, sipping your morning coffee, when an ad pops up that feels eerily perfect—like it knows you better than your best friend. That’s Meta’s latest AI magic at work. In March 2025, the tech giant dropped a batch of ad updates for Facebook and Instagram that are shaking up how brands connect with us. As a marketer (or just someone curious about the ad world), these changes feel like a mix of exciting possibilities and a little “what’s next?” uncertainty. Let’s unpack what’s happening and why it matters.

AI That’s Smarter Than Ever

Meta’s new AI system, dubbed Andromeda, rolled out on March 23, 2025 (Social Media Today spilled the beans), and it’s like having a super-smart assistant who never sleeps. It’s sifting through millions of ads to figure out what’ll catch your eye, whether you’re shopping online or popping into a store. I imagine it like a librarian who’s read every book and knows exactly which one you’ll love—except it’s ads, not novels.

The updates come with some cool tricks up their sleeve:

• Ad Frequency Control: Ever get annoyed seeing the same ad ten times a day? Now brands can dial it back, so you’re not rolling your eyes at yet another shoe promo.
• Business vs. Personal Split: Companies can keep their ads separate from their CEO’s vacation pics—finally, a clean slate for business vibes.
• Instagram Post Ideas: The AI’s like, “Hey, that post you made last week? It’d make a killer ad!” It’s a time-saver that feels almost too easy.

It’s all part of Meta’s push to let AI do the heavy lifting. For marketers, it’s less fiddling with settings and more trusting the tech to nail it. Honestly, it’s a bit like handing over the car keys to a robot driver—convenient, but you hope it doesn’t take a weird detour.

Influencers Get a Front-Row Seat

Here’s where it gets fun: Meta’s blending influencer magic into its Advantage+ Catalog ads. Imagine your favorite fashion influencer strutting their stuff in a reel, and bam—it’s part of a shoppable ad for that exact jacket. This update, fresh this week (check Meta’s blog for the full scoop), lets brands team up with creators to make their products feel less “salesy” and more like a friend’s recommendation. I’ve fallen for this myself—seeing someone I follow rave about a gadget makes me way more likely to hit “buy.”

Meta’s stats back this up: 53% of people they surveyed say they’d buy stuff pitched by creators on Reels, where content gets shared 3.5 billion times a day. For marketers, it’s like striking gold—authentic vibes with a sales boost.

Smoother Shopping, But Ads in Your Notifications?

Shopping’s getting a tweak too. Meta’s testing new checkout flows to make buying stuff as easy as ordering takeout. Details are hush-hush, but X chatter hints at fewer clicks between “ooh, I want that” and “it’s mine.” For brands selling impulse buys—like that quirky mug I definitely don’t need—it could be a win.

But then there’s this: ads in your notifications. Yep, Meta’s dipping a toe into that territory. I get it—more eyeballs, more clicks—but it’s risky. Notifications are my sacred space for friend texts and calendar pings, not ads. X posts from March 24 show people are split—some see the potential, others are ready to riot. Marketers, tread lightly here.

The Good, The Tricky, and The “Hmm”

These updates are a goldmine in some ways. Andromeda’s precision could save brands cash while racking up sales—think Casetify’s 13% ROAS boost last year with AI-generated backgrounds. The influencer-catalog mashup? It’s like a cheat code for trust. But there’s a flip side. Handing over targeting control to AI (like with Advantage+ Audience) feels like letting go of the steering wheel. And if notification ads annoy too many people, it could backfire big time. Plus, with AI cranking out creative, I worry my brand’s quirky voice might get lost in the shuffle—Meta’s still figuring out how to let us tweak that.

Lila Grayson wasn’t chasing fame. At 34, she was a single mom in Boise, Idaho, juggling a part-time bookkeeping gig and a rambunctious three-year-old named Ollie. Her Facebook Stories were her escape—a messy, unpolished window into her kitchen where she’d post quick clips of her cooking: a bubbling pot of spaghetti, Ollie smearing sauce on his cheeks, or a triumphant “Ta-da!” as she pulled lumpy muffins from the oven. Her 200-odd friends loved it, leaving comments like, “Girl, I need that recipe!” or “Ollie’s my chef hero.”

Then, in March 2025, Facebook dropped its latest update: Stories could now make money. Lila scrolled past the announcement one night, bleary-eyed after putting Ollie to bed. She tapped it out of curiosity. The app linked to a Creator Studio guide explaining it step-by-step: opt in via the tool, link a payout account (she used her PayPal), and meet the basics—1,000 followers and 60,000 minutes of view time across posts in the last 60 days. She didn’t qualify yet, but the fine print said Stories views could count toward that if she turned on “In-Stream Ads”—short ads that’d play before or after her clips. “Why not?” she shrugged, flicking the toggle on.

Her first monetized Story was a fluke. She’d filmed herself rolling out dough for garlic butter flatbreads, her chipped red nails fumbling as Ollie’s toy truck crashed into her ankle. “Dinner in 10, if I don’t burn it!” she laughed into the camera, posting it with a swipe-up poll: “Garlic or no garlic?” The next morning, a notification blinked: “$1.87 earned.” She stared at it, coffee sloshing as Ollie tugged her sleeve. “Seriously?” she muttered. An ad for a meal kit service had run before her clip, and 73 people watched it through.

Her best friend Mia, a hairstylist with a side hustle selling earrings online, was over that night, braiding Lila’s hair while Ollie napped. “That’s real money, Lila,” Mia said, eyes wide. “Your food’s cozy—it’s you. People want that.” Lila snorted. “It’s just me failing at Pinterest recipes.” But Mia nudged her: “Post more. See what happens.”

So Lila did, fumbling through the process. She learned she could track earnings in Creator Studio—pennies at first, but they added up. She posted daily: a shaky clip of her slicing apples with Ollie “helping” (mostly eating), or a quiet moment stirring soup, whispering, “He’s finally asleep, so this is for me.” She figured out how to add a “Stars” button—little digital tips viewers could send—and giggled when her cousin sent three stars worth 50 cents, writing, “For Ollie’s apron fund!”

The numbers crept up. Fifty views became 500 as friends shared her Stories. She hit 1,000 followers after a local mom group reposted her “5-Minute Toddler Tacos” clip. Ads—cookware, grocery apps—started flowing, and by May, she was cashing out $20 a week. It wasn’t much, but it bought diapers, a new spatula, and a rare latte for herself. A news article she read later confirmed the feature was a hit, with creators like her earning small but steady streams.

Lila humanized it all without trying. One rainy afternoon, she filmed herself burning a batch of cookies, cursing under her breath before cracking up. “Well, that’s Monday,” she typed, and it got 800 views—her biggest yet. Another night, voice trembling, she posted about a rough day: “Ollie’s sick, I’m wiped, but this stew’s keeping us going.” A stranger sent $2 in Stars with a note: “Hang in there, mama.”

By July, she was pulling $300 a month. She splurged on a secondhand ring light and a phone tripod, but kept it real—no fake smiles or staged counters. A viral Story—Ollie flipping a pancake that landed on their dog, Muffin—earned $60 in a day, ads and Stars pouring in. Her followers called it “Lila’s Lunch,” and she leaned into the chaos: flour-dusted aprons, Ollie’s sticky hugs, her tired but warm grin.

March 11, 2025 – Hey, have you noticed Instagram’s been spicing things up lately? I swear, every time I open the app, there’s something new to play with. They’ve just dropped a bunch of fresh updates—think fun new fonts, funky text effects, and even a “Pause” button for Reels. Oh, and “Collage Stories” are popping up for more people too. It’s like Instagram handed us a shiny new toy box and said, “Go wild!” Here’s the scoop on what’s new and why I’m kinda obsessed.

Fonts That Feel Like You

So, first off, Instagram’s added four new fonts for Reels and Stories: “Sweetheart,” “Heartbreaker,” “Flutter,” and “Jagged.” I’m talking cute, swoopy letters and bold, punchy ones too. They started rolling these out a couple weeks ago, and I’ve been messing around with them nonstop. “Sweetheart” is my go-to for cozy vibes—like a coffee pic with a little love note vibe—while “Jagged” is perfect when I’m feeling extra and want my text to scream. It’s such a simple thing, but it makes my posts feel more me, you know? Check out the official details on Instagram’s blog—they’ve got the full rundown.

Text That Dances (Yes, Really!)

And then there’s these new effects—“Flutter” and “Jagged”—that make your words move. “Flutter” is all soft and floaty, like something out of a daydream, and “Jagged” is this choppy, bouncy vibe that’s honestly hilarious with the right music. I saw someone on X pair “Jagged” with a fast beat, and I couldn’t stop laughing—it’s like the text was dancing harder than I ever could. It’s such a fun way to grab attention without even trying too hard.

A “Pause” Button? Finally!

Okay, this one’s still in testing, but Instagram’s trying out a “Pause” button for Reels. I caught wind of it on X, and I’m crossing my fingers it sticks around. You know how sometimes you’re watching a Reel and you’re like, “Wait, what did that say?” Now you can just hit pause and soak it in. I’d love this for those recipe videos or when someone’s showing off a cool outfit—I’m always missing the details because it’s over too fast. It’s a tiny tweak, but it could totally change how I watch stuff.

Collage Stories Are My New Jam

Oh, and “Collage Stories”! They’ve been teasing this for a while, but now more of us are getting it. It’s basically a way to mash up a bunch of pics and videos into one Story—like a mini scrapbook. I tried it with some weekend snaps: a clip of my dog being goofy, a pic of my brunch, and a little doodle on top. It’s so much better than spamming everyone with five separate posts. I’ve seen people on X use it for travel recaps or showing off their Etsy shops, and it’s honestly adorable. Peek at some cool examples in this X roundup—so much inspo!

Why’s Instagram Doing All This Now?

So, why the big update party? Well, TikTok’s still in this weird limbo in the U.S.—you can use it if you’ve already got it, but newbies are out of luck since the app stores yanked it in January. Instagram’s clearly like, “Hey, Reels is your spot now!” Plus, with Pinterest tagging AI stuff and WhatsApp getting chattier with Meta’s other apps, Instagram’s gotta keep up. But honestly, I think they just get us—sometimes I just want a little more oomph to make my posts pop, and they’re delivering.

Picture this: you’re in Austin, maybe grabbing some BBQ downtown or strolling through Hyde Park, and you need a ride. You pull up the Uber app, and instead of a chatty driver pulling up in a Prius, a sleek, electric Jaguar I-PACE rolls up—nobody behind the wheel. That’s the futuristic vibe Waymo and Uber are bringing to the city starting in 2025, and behind the scenes, they’re splitting the profits in a hush-hush deal that’s got folks curious. Here’s the scoop on how these two tech giants are making it work—and what it means for regular people like us.

The Backstory: Two Companies, One Ride

Last September, Waymo (the self-driving wizards from Google’s parent company) and Uber (the ride-hailing king we all know) shook hands on a plan to roll out driverless cars in Austin. It’s not their first rodeo—they’ve been doing this in Phoenix for a while—but Austin’s a fresh playground. Starting early next year, Uber’s app will be your only way to book one of Waymo’s fancy autonomous rides here, covering a 37-square-mile chunk of the city from Montopolis to the heart of downtown.

So, how’s it all split up? Uber’s the one running the show day-to-day—keeping the cars clean, fixing them up, and making sure they’re ready to roll out of the depot. Waymo, meanwhile, is the brains behind the operation, handling the high-tech “Waymo Driver” system that steers these cars around without a human touching the wheel. They’re also on call for roadside rescues and answering rider questions like, “Uh, why’d the car just stop in the middle of Sixth Street?”

The Money Mystery

Now, here’s where it gets juicy: how do they split the cash from your ride? Neither company’s spilling the beans, but let’s break it down like we’re splitting a tab at a bar. Uber’s bringing its huge app audience—millions of us already use it—and the grunt work of managing a fleet. Waymo’s tossing in these pricey electric Jaguars and the sci-fi tech that makes them drive themselves. Some folks on X are guessing Uber might snag half the fare since they’re the face of the service, but Waymo’s not walking away with pocket change—they own the cars and the magic that powers them.

Think about it: when you pay, say, $15 for a ride from Zilker Park to East Austin, that money’s gotta cover the car’s upkeep, the tech, and a little profit for both sides. No driver means no one’s taking a cut like in a regular Uber ride, but those self-driving systems don’t come cheap. I’d bet they’ve worked out a deal that keeps both happy—maybe a 50-50 split, or something close, tweaked so Uber pushes these rides hard instead of nudging you toward a human driver.

What’s It Like to Ride?

For us regular folks, this is less about spreadsheets and more about the experience. Imagine hopping in—no awkward small talk, just you and a quiet, smooth ride. Waymo’s already doing 150,000 trips a week in places like Phoenix, and riders there say it feels safer and more reliable than a human driver on a bad day. In Austin, the cars will match UberX or Uber Comfort prices, so it’s not some luxury splurge—just a new twist on getting around.

I talked to a buddy who tried Waymo in Phoenix, and he said, “It’s weird at first, like the car’s haunted, but then you relax and enjoy it.” That’s the vibe they’re aiming for here. And with hundreds of these cars hitting Austin streets over time, you might start seeing them everywhere—zipping past food trucks or waiting silently outside a bar on Rainey Street.

The People Keeping It Rolling

Behind the curtain, there’s a human side too. Uber’s got folks at the depot scrubbing down seats and tightening bolts—not glamorous, but it keeps the wheels turning. Waymo’s engineers are probably burning the midnight oil, tweaking algorithms so the car doesn’t freak out when a biker cuts it off on Congress Avenue. And if you’re stuck wondering why your ride’s parked itself under a live oak, there’s a Waymo support person ready to sort you out over the phone.

Why It Matters to Austinites

This isn’t just tech nerd stuff—it’s a big deal for a city like Austin that’s growing fast and loves its quirky, forward-thinking vibe. No drivers could mean fewer cars clogging up I-35 (okay, we can dream), and the electric part’s a win for anyone who cares about cleaner air. Plus, it’s a chance for Uber to bounce back from ditching its own self-driving dreams a few years ago, while Waymo gets to show off its tech to every Austinite with an Uber app. Check out this Reuters piece for more on how it’s all coming together.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Waymo’s had some hiccups—think unexpected stops or fender-benders—that have regulators keeping a close eye. If something goes wrong on Lamar Boulevard, people might hesitate to hop in next time. And the big question lingers: if the money split’s off, will one company start playing favorites with other options?

Hey marketers! If you've been navigating the wild world of digital ads, buckle up because TikTok just dropped something big: "Smart+". Launched back in October 2024, this tool is all about making your life easier while ramping up the effectiveness of your ad campaigns.

What's Smart+ All About?

Smart+ is like having a super-smart assistant who knows exactly what to do with your ad budget:

Ad Creation on Autopilot: You plug in your assets, set your budget, and define your targets into TikTok's Ads Manager. Then, Smart+ does its magic, crafting ads that hit the mark by tapping into the latest trends, what viewers like, and what's worked before. It's like having a personal ad designer who gets your brand.

Smart Targeting and Bidding: This AI doesn't just guess; it studies user data to find your perfect audience. It adjusts bids on the fly, ensuring your ads pop up when and where they'll do the most good.

Keeping It Fresh: Ever noticed how ads can get stale? Smart+ keeps your content fresh by mixing up creatives, so your audience stays engaged without getting bored.

Tailored Campaigns for Every Need

Smart+ isn't a one-trick pony; it's designed for all sorts of marketing goals:

Boost Your Website: If you're trying to drive traffic or conversions, Smart+ zeroes in on the folks most likely to click through.

E-commerce Magic: It showcases your products to users who are already showing interest, potentially leading to more sales.

App Install Gold: For those promoting apps, Smart+ uses TikTok's platform to get your app in front of the right eyes.

Lead Generation: It targets those ready to take the next step, collecting leads directly on TikTok.

Seamless Integration

Smart+ fits nicely into TikTok's existing tools:

Ads Manager: Your control center for setting up and managing Smart+ campaigns.
TikTok Symphony: An AI suite that helps with the creative side, from writing scripts to producing videos, making Smart+ even smarter.

Real Results from Early Adopters

Marketers who've jumped on the Smart+ bandwagon are seeing some impressive numbers:
Lower Costs: Some have seen their acquisition costs drop by 21%.

Higher Conversion: Up to 26% better conversion rates.

More for Your Money: ROAS has jumped by as much as 89%.

But It's Not All Smooth Sailing

There are a few bumps in the road:

Privacy Concerns: With TikTok often in the spotlight for data privacy, Smart+ aims to keep things above board with tech like clean rooms for data analysis.

AI Learning Curve: If you're used to the hands-on approach, letting AI take the wheel can feel a bit like letting go of control. There's also the risk of missing out on human creativity and intuition.

Regulatory Risks: The future of TikTok in some markets is a bit of a question mark, which might make some advertisers wary.