The South by Southwest (SXSW) Interactive 2015 in Austin, Texas was certainly something else this year! The conference highlighted some wildly impressive and exciting new releases and updates on the latest social media platforms and apps that every business should know. Marketers, small business owners, and anyone who needs to capture people’s notice and promote their brand need to pay attention to these SXSW features and spring’s latest digital media marketing developments. Watch out – these recent trends can ensure that you’re not left behind.
Periscope
Twitter acquired the live streaming video app Periscope for a reported $100 million in early 2015. Users can follow you and instantly watch, comment, and give feedback on real time videos that you release.
It’s crucial to know that this feature also poses some potential dangers. Like live television, all interactions with your audience will be exposed to the world and mistakes do happen. From minor incidences like poor sound quality to much more dramatic mistakes, everything you do will be watched carefully in real time. It’s more important than ever to be careful with Twitter’s Periscope and with social media in general.
Meerkat
Periscope-rival live streaming app Meerkat has just released its Android version, setting it apart from Periscope’s iOS exclusivity. This update on the video broadcasting underdog opens significant doors to a broader user base. However, note that this is a beta release, so it may be best to watch and wait for the final release before utilizing it for your brand.
Facebook’s Live Comment Threads
Almost every business uses Facebook and for good reason. Last quarter, Facebook passed 1.19 billion monthly active users, not to mention incredible mobile and daily user statistics. During the F8 Facebook developer conference, Facebook announced that their embedded comment threads on websites and Facebook brand pages will work in real time. Businesses can now instantaneously track conversations and engage with their consumers faster and easier than ever.
Instagram’s Layout
It’s no secret that people love customizing their Instagram photos. From filters to cropping, giving people the power to edit their personal pictures and artistic shots has been an incredibly powerful social media tool. As of December 2014, there are 300 million Instagram users and that number is growing at a rapid rate, and businesses have been paying attention. The platform has been increasingly popular with marketers looking to boost their brand with everyday consumers and now there is one more feature to use to your business’ advantage.
Instagram recently launched Layout, an iOS app that lets users create collages from their photos and share them on Instagram. Victoria’s Secret, Sephora, and Shutterfly have already jumped on the trend, and more are sure to follow. Make sure you’re not left behind on the newest way to optimize your corporate Instagram account, engage your consumers, and further establish your brand.
Want more ways to engage your consumers? Check out the opportunities that lead generation offers with Prizm Media. Contact us at [email protected] or (604) 326-0096 today!