Blog

  • Google Spam Update

    Google Spam Update

    The Google November Spam Update Has Been Completed and Is Now Being Rolled Out

    Google has confirmed that an algorithm update aimed at combating spam has completed its rollout to search results.

    In a tweet, Google certifies that the spam upgrade has completed its rollout in search results worldwide. Though Google periodically rolls out spam upgrades to preserve the quality of its search results, they did not give the exact details of the update.

    This year, Google has already released three spam patches. This is the fourth Google algorithm upgrade this calendar year that has targeted spam.

    Google maintains a tight definition of spam, mostly low-quality websites that deceive people into submitting personal information or installing malware.

    Key takeaways:

    • Google’s automatic systems now maintain more than 99 percent of visits from search results free of spam thanks to these upgrades.
    • Concerning these spam updates, websites that follow Google’s webmaster guidelines should be unaffected.
    • Check your site’s security and seek evidence of a probable attack if your rankings drop suddenly after this month’s spam update.

    Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-rolls-out-november-2021-spam-update/425956/


    Google: Link Spam Update Is Complete

    The Google Link Spam update was completed on August 24. However, according to Google Search Central, the update took a total of four weeks to be accomplished, two weeks longer than projected.

    The announcement, posted on Twitter by the Google Search Central account, was found beneath a not-so-subtle reminder that the update had begun rolling out on July 26.

    Key takeaways:

    • SEOs use their search term tracking tools and Google Analytics to evaluate the possible influence on their websites every time a new update is released.
    • The original post was meant to remind the necessity of using qualified affiliate links, guest blogs, and social postings as monetization methods.
    • Some will welcome these updates that immediately address those concerns. Still, those who actively participate in spammy backlink building will not.

    Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/googles-link-spam-update-is-complete/417552/

  • Apple’s iPhone Privacy

    Apple’s iPhone Privacy

    Due to Apple’s iPhone Privacy Upgrade, Facebook Claims It Underreported Ad Performance

    In a blog post, Facebook informed advertisers that it had underreported ad effectiveness on iPhones. This is due to privacy changes implemented by Apple to its iOS operating system.

    Apple’s update required iPhone and iPad users to opt into being tracked when launching an app for the first time. Facebook and other apps utilize specialized tracking to provide more targeted adverts to users.

    Facebook has stated that it is already striving to improve ad performance measurement, particularly by boosting investments in reporting gaps in advance of the holiday season.

    Key takeaways:

    • Facebook calculated that it underreported online conversions on Apple’s iOS by around 15% in the third quarter.
    • Facebook CFO David Wehner warned of the possible impact of the iOS changes, saying he expected the changes to have a more substantial effect in the third quarter.
    • Meanwhile, Facebook suggested that advertisers take a few steps to understand their ad success better.

    Read more: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/22/facebook-says-it-underreported-ad-performance-after-iphone-privacy-update.html

  • Following Concerns to Its Ad-Targeting Business, Facebook Has Revamped Its Business Tool Lineup

    Following Concerns to Its Ad-Targeting Business, Facebook Has Revamped Its Business Tool Lineup

    According to the social networking giant, small businesses that rely on Facebook ads to reach their clients will be impacted by Apple’s changes. However, it was unsuccessful in halting any of Apple’s adjustments. 

    The market is moving into a new era that is more concerned with user privacy. Personalization and targeting are becoming more of an opt-in experience. As a result, Facebook has had to adapt its approach to its business advertiser base.

    Key takeaways:

    • Facebook is introducing new capabilities that will help businesses better place themselves in front of the right people. This includes changes that will allow them to reach out to clients, advertise to them, chat with them on Facebook apps, create leads, and gain customers, among other things.
    • Customers can browse businesses from beneath News Feed stories by tapping on themes they’re interested in, something the company began testing earlier this year.
    • Facebook will also begin testing “Work Accounts,” which would allow business owners to access their business tools without using their personal accounts.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/16/facebook-revamps-its-business-tool-lineup-following-threats-to-its-ad-targeting-business/

  • WordPress Ninja Forms: Guide, Tips, and Trends

    WordPress Ninja Forms: Guide, Tips, and Trends

    Over a Million Websites Are at Risk Due to a WordPress Ninja Forms Vulnerability

    Ninja Forms, a popular WordPress contact form, was discovered to have two vulnerabilities that affected over 1 million WordPress installations. This is the latest in a long line of REST API-related flaws that have been uncovered in a variety of WordPress plugins.

    Key takeaways:

    • The two vulnerabilities were caused by a single REST API validation flaw found in the Permissions Callbacks.
    • The permissions callback is an element of the authentication process that only allows authorized users access to REST API Endpoints.
    • Sensitive Information Disclosure and Unprotected REST-API to Email Injection are the two vulnerabilities.

    Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/wordpress-ninja-forms-vulnerability-exposes-over-a-million-sites/420726/

  • Top Consumer Brands Are Paying for Prominent Placement on Amazon’s Search Results

    Top Consumer Brands Are Paying for Prominent Placement on Amazon’s Search Results

    Because valuable positioning on the world’s largest e-commerce site comes with a rising price tag, Amazon is raking in big bucks from the biggest consumer brands.

    When you search for “toothpaste” on Amazon, you’ll see a mix of prominent brands like Colgate, Crest, and Sensodyne at the top of the page. Likewise, if you do a separate search for “deodorant,” you’ll first find Secret, Dove, and Native goods. However, if you look closely, you’ll see that those listings are adverts with the word “sponsored” attached to them.

    Getting organic results on Amazon involves two complete swipes up on the mobile app for customers shopping for toothpaste.

    Key takeaways:

    • According to Amazon, the number of adverts displayed varies depending on the specific search term and other criteria, such as purchasing on a desktop, mobile device, or through the Amazon app.
    • Additionally, Amazon said that there are no specific ad numbers inside search results. A user could see one, numerous, or no advertising at all.
    • They introduced new ad formats such as video advertisements and sponsored branded posts, which display a single brand and many product listings in a banner at the top of the page.

    Read more: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/09/19/amazon-piles-ads-into-search-results-as-big-brands-pay-for-placement.html

  • TikTok eCommerce

    TikTok eCommerce

    TikTok Highlights Rising Ecommerce Opportunities and the App’s Unique Potential for Brands

    TikTok has been progressively leaning into eCommerce as part of its ongoing growth and desire to add more monetization alternatives. This can assist in supporting higher advertiser engagement while also giving more cash potential for individual creators through brand partnerships.

    The company has revealed some new data and ideas to help marketers increase their product marketing efforts in the app. And could help them define your TikTok marketing strategy.

    Key takeaways:

    • TikTok claims that its platform offers new options for marketers in terms of increasing product engagement through entertainment.
    • Another significant benefit it possesses in this regard is its algorithm and its “hyper-relevant” For You Page.
    • TikTok provides more opportunities to showcase a broader selection of clips from multiple suppliers because it is more oriented around content than producers or profiles.
    • TikTok’s algorithm is also quite effective at determining what you enjoy and displaying more of it to you.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/tiktok-outlines-rising-opportunities-for-ecommerce-and-the-unique-potentia/607041/

  • Twitter Makes Professional Profiles and Ticketed Spaces More Accessible

    Twitter Makes Professional Profiles and Ticketed Spaces More Accessible

    Twitter intends to keep its foot on the development accelerator with two new projects, giving businesses and creators more possibilities in the app.

    More businesses are being invited to participate in Twitter’s Professional Profiles test. This would allow companies to display more business information in a dedicated, supplementary profile space within the app.

    Key takeaways:

    • Twitter first tested professional Profiles in April, and now more businesses are receiving notifications like these in their inbox.
    • Professional Profiles on Twitter add a company location listing, hours of operation, and contact information to your Twitter, all in a new module beneath your primary profile display.
    • Twitter is expanding access to Ticketed Spaces, which it originally opened up to public applications in June. It’s not yet available to everyone, but more users will have the ability to host their own paid-for Space, from which they may earn direct cash.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/twitter-expands-access-to-professional-profiles-and-ticketed-spaces/606577/

  • Reddit Announces New Ad Platform Updates

    Reddit Announces New Ad Platform Updates

    With a new update to its ad production platform, Reddit improves its ad capabilities, including bid recommendations, increased editing functionality, and improved system efficiency.

    Reddit has spent the last few years refining its business services to showcase its enormous, engaged audience as a more viable and appealing choice for brand outreach. Previously seen as an unruly part of the internet, Reddit has cleaned up many of its most contentious forums and added more methods to contact Redditors.

    Key takeaways:

    • The dashboard will show you a recommended bid price based on your specified parameters to achieve the best audience reach when setting up your Reddit ads campaign.
    • It’s similar to audience and cost estimation tools offered on other platforms, most notably Facebook. It provides additional assistance to help you optimize your ads or establish more realistic performance expectations based on comparable characteristics.
    • Reddit has also upgraded its bulk edit process, allowing advertisers to alter bids and budgets across numerous ad groups at once.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/reddit-launches-new-updates-for-its-ad-platform-including-bid-recommendati/606582/

  • Instagram Is Working on a New ‘Montage’ Feature and New ‘Favorites’ Section

    Instagram Is Working on a New ‘Montage’ Feature and New ‘Favorites’ Section

    Instagram is particularly eager to encourage people to use Reels as often as possible to counteract the rise of TikTok while also matching rising usage trends.

    A new ‘Montage’ option is the most recent development on this front. This feature, which allows users to turn their Instagram Stories frames into short Reels video samples, is still being tested internally.

    On the other hand, Instagram is testing a new audience selection function called ‘Favorites.’ Like Facebook, users can choose which will prioritize accounts’ posts in their feed.

    Key takeaways:

    • Instagram faces an existential threat as TikTok dominates the download rankings, mainly as younger users associate themselves with TikTok.
    • Instagram claims that Reels usage is increasing rapidly, but it’s still a long way behind TikTok
    • Although Instagram’s algorithms should already know which profiles are your favorites, the “Favorites” option would provide users with a way to select what they see in their feed.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagrams-developing-a-new-montage-feature-to-convert-stories-to-reels/606491/

  • Twitter Wants You to Tweet to Communities Based on Your Interests

    Twitter Wants You to Tweet to Communities Based on Your Interests

    Twitter has recently released new features at a breakneck pace. Its latest one, Communities, aims to make it simpler to connect with people who share common interests. Instead of tweeting to their regular followers, users will join these new social hubs and tweet directly to other people with similar interests. Those tweets will remain public, but only other community members will be able to respond.

    Key takeaways:

    • Twitter says Communities will be “limited” for the time being.
    • Communities will revolve around “dogs, weather, sneakers, skincare, astrology,” among other popular and relatively benign topics.
    • Communities will be formed and maintained by moderators, who will invite other users to the group via DM and remove content that has been put there.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/08/twitter-communities/

  • Free Video Compressor

    Free Video Compressor

    How to reduce a video file size

    handbrake.fr is a free video compressor you can download online.

    1. Upload the source video.
    2. Under Summary Format, select the file type. Ex. MP4
    3. Under Summary Format, select Web Optimized.
    handbrake.fr BrodNeil.com
    1. Under Video > Framerate (FPS), choose Same as source.
    handbrake.fr BrodNeil.com
    1. Under Dimensions > Resolution and Scaling > Resolution Limit, choose the quality: the lower the quality, the more reduced the file size.
    2. Everything else remains (as it is) to reduce or compress the file size (unless you exactly know what you are doing).
    3. Click the Start Encode.
    4. Please wait for it to finish and then review the output.
  • Facebook Has Released a New Guide to Ad Creative Testing and Response Optimization

    Facebook Has Released a New Guide to Ad Creative Testing and Response Optimization

    Facebook has released a new ‘Creative Prototyping’ guidebook that includes some notes to assist marketers in testing and optimizing their ad creativity. It also includes enhancing responses based on each piece.

    Although the 29-page guide focuses mainly on gaming advertising, some valuable insights and points apply to other campaigns and verticals. As a result, they may be worth implementing into your strategy.

    Key takeaways:

    • Facebook’s guide gives you step-by-step instructions on how to use each piece in your strategy.
    • The first segment looks at how to assess creative aspects and how to isolate them so that you can get specific performance results.
    • Facebook also includes flow charts and examples throughout the document that show how to apply each testing procedure.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/facebook-publishes-new-guide-to-testing-ad-creative-and-optimizing-respons/606259/

  • Artificial Intelligence Will Be Monitoring Dorset Social Care Patients Using Sensors

    Artificial Intelligence Will Be Monitoring Dorset Social Care Patients Using Sensors

    Sensors will be installed in houses to observe behavior and electrical usage, which AI will analyze to identify potential health issues. The technology, developed by Lilli in the United Kingdom, claims to reduce expenditures and the frequency of required care visits.

    However, according to one expert, the system may appear intrusive to specific patients.

    Key takeaways:

    • Movement, temperature, and the use of specific appliances are all monitored by the devices, but there are no cameras.
    • Before the Lilli system can be installed, enrolled patients or someone authorized to give consent on their behalf, such as a family member, must grant written permission.
    • According to Lilli, data from participants’ residences is protected during transmission and storage, and only the organization delivering patient care will have access to it.

    Read morehttps://www.bbc.com/news/technology-58317106

  • Users Will Have More Control over Their Twitter Privacy with New Tools

    Users Will Have More Control over Their Twitter Privacy with New Tools

    Twitter’s CEO, Jack Dorsey, has previously remarked that the social media network hasn’t moved fast enough in recent years to launch new products. However, the company has been relatively open about its product roadmaps, including revealing current development solutions and may never see the light of day.

    Twitter is considering new privacy features relating to who can see a user’s postings and the posts they like, as well as more control over their follower lists, with both of these in mind. The goal of these tests is to make users feel more at ease when using the social media site. Here are the features that are either in development or will be tested soon:

    • Control over followers list
    • Tweets are being archived
    • Leaving conversations on Twitter
    • Tweets that have been ‘liked’ are being hidden

    Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/new-twitter-privacy-tools-will-give-users-more-control/418791/

  • Forbes Publishes the Eight (8) Most Significant Business Trends In 2022

    Forbes Publishes the Eight (8) Most Significant Business Trends In 2022

    These eight significant trends provide an overview of how business operations evolve to suit our rapidly changing world. Check out the 8 business trends in 2022.

    • Trend 1: Sustainable, resilient operations
    • Trend 2: The balance between human workers and intelligent robots
    • Trend 3: The shifting talent pool and changing employee experience
    • Trend 4: Flatter, more agile organizations
    • Trend 5: Authenticity
    • Trend 6: Purposeful business
    • Trend 7: Co-opetition and integration
    • Trend 8: New forms of funding

    Now that you’ve known the trends, can you come up with a side hustle idea from these?

    Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/11/01/the-8-biggest-business-trends-in-2022/

  • Dual Tray Laser Printer: Tech Guidelines

    Dual Tray Laser Printer: Tech Guidelines

    A dual tray laser printer is an excellent choice for busy offices that need to print high volumes of material. There are many models on the market, so I have put together some helpful information to help you choose the right one for your office. It uses toner cartridges that are replaceable and cost less than inkjet cartridges. Laser printers also create crisper images with better contrast in pictures and text. This makes them great for graphics work, presentations, posters, or signs where color accuracy is essential. 

    The most common use of a dual tray laser printer in an office setting would be in the copy room to quickly produce copies of essential documents without frequently reloading paper. 

    In this blog post, we will be discussing the best dual tray laser printer in the market. 

    The article will go over what a laser printer is and how it works to explain why you might need one. It will then list the top printers that are currently on the market. Finally, it will end with a summary of the dual tray laser printer and where you can buy them online.

    There are many reasons why a company would want to use these printers

    With new advances in technology, some of these machines can print up to 30 pages per minute. This is fast! It’s also crucial that you choose one from a trusted company to know it won’t break down on you after a few weeks of using it.

    When looking for a dual tray laser printer, there are many different things to consider. The first thing to consider is the features of the printer. This includes duplexing or not, which means you can print on both sides of the paper so that your documents are ready quickly without wasting paper. Another feature to consider is whether your printer has an automatic document feeder that allows you to print multiple pages in seconds instead of minutes or hours. Of course, this depends on the length of the document and whether it is two-way or one-way. Next, consider what type of toner cartridge this model uses.

    Are you looking for a Dual Tray Laser Printer?

    If you are looking for a dual tray laser printer from Brother, you have several options to choose from. The Brother Dual Tray Laser Printer is one of its most popular models. It can print up to 35ppm and has two front trays with 250 sheets each, allowing you to store a variety of paper without having to refill as some printers require. 

    Brother is one of the most popular Dual Tray Laser Printer Brands in the market.

    Dual try printers

    They have a lot to offer with their best construction quality and reasonable prices. The latest model is the HL-3170CDW color laser printer, which provides many features to its price range. For example, it has a printing speed of 27 pages per minute, a two-way printing capability. In addition, it can copy up to 19 copies per minute. This makes it ideal for small offices that require high-volume copy or printing capabilities.

    The brothers have been in the printer market for a long time, and they always come up with new products.

    The latest thing they have to offer is a dual tray laser printer. With this product, you can scan and print at the same time. This is ideal for people who need to work fast.

    Brother’s two-dimensional laser printer is a new product in the market, and we provide you with all the information about it. This printer has surprisingly fast print speeds, which can result in the faster output of documents. This is convenient because it can be used wirelessly or connected via a USB cable. This means you don’t have to worry about your computer when you want to print something where it is.

    Brother HL-L2360DW is a reliable laser printer with some excellent features.

    It comes with two-way printing and wireless printing from your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone. The printer also has some excellent finishing features, such as stapling and perforation. This document provides valuable information about this device so that you can make informed decisions about whether it is right for you.

    When it comes to printers, you have to be careful about the cost.

    The Brother Dual Tray Laser Printer is designed for all budgets and work environments due to its unique features that are affordable and versatile. It can print up to 27 pages per minute at 1200 x 2400 dpi resolution, plus a 50-sheet automatic document feeder. This printer is worth your time and money.

    Brother is a company that has been around for decades.

    The company is now launching its latest printer, a dual-draw laser printer. The laser printer has two trays that can hold up to 500 sheets each, saving time reloading the paper. Unlike most single tray printers, this means you don’t have to worry about running out of paper in the middle of printing something important.

    You don’t have to go out and buy the most expensive printer to get high-quality printing. There are many cheap printers available that can give you crisp, clear copies for a fraction of the price of big brands. Brother HL-4570CDW is one of the printers that offer the best print quality at an affordable price.

    A printer that doesn’t take up much space and still delivers standard prints.

    Thanks to its compact design and fast print speed, the Brother Dual Tray Laser might be just what you’re looking for. It can print and copy documents at just 22 dB, making it one of the quietest printers on the market. In addition, this device can handle two trays, so you don’t have to worry about changing the weight or size of the paper during different jobs. Finally, suppose you want to give your print work a professional look. In that case, this printer comes with a built-in 600 x 600 dpi scanner that delivers high-resolution images time after time.

    In the laser printer market, the Brother Dual Tray Printer is a great option.

    This printer has two drawers so that you can print on different types of paper simultaneously. It prints up to 35 pages per minute and produces high-quality color photos. This feature makes it easy to create professional-looking documents in a short time. In addition, it costs less than other printers in its class. It comes with advanced features such as wireless printing capabilities and an Internet-ready interface for sharing documents over networks.

    The brother dual tray laser printer is a multifunctional printer that prints, scans, and copies. It offers double-sided printing with automatic double-sided printing for copying and scanning. The copy resolution is 600 x 300 dpi, and the printer can process up to 30 pages per minute in both black and white and color. This machine also has an LCD screen so you can see how much ink or toner you have left before your toner runs out! You can also order replacement cartridges from your phone using the Brother iPrint & Scan app on iOS or Android devices!

    Final Thought on the Brother Dual Tray Laser Printer

    Brother is a company that has been in the printing business for over 100 years. They have two laser printers, the HL-L2340DW and the HL-L2360DWT. Both work well with Brother printer, fax, and scanner models. The main difference between the two is the number of sheets per minute printed on each tray.

    The Brother Dual Tray Laser is a multifunction printer that can be used for printing and scanning. It is designed to save space on your desk, but you can still scan multiple pages at once. This printer comes with an automatic feeder for easy scanning of long documents and producing high-quality prints up to 11 x 17 inches.

    The Brother laser printer also offers duplex printing, so you can print on both sides of the paper without having to flip it manually. This can save you time and space.

  • Microsoft Updates Its Smart Pages Website Builder

    Microsoft Updates Its Smart Pages Website Builder

    Microsoft released Smart Pages, a free website builder service to assist small businesses that may not have previously had a website. During the epidemic, this was especially important because more businesses needed to be online. On the other hand, many small businesses lack the expertise or financial resources to commission a completely new website. Microsoft revealed additional features for the Smart Pages service this week, based on consumer input.

    Key takeaways:

    • Users can develop, edit, and publish your website for free using Smart Pages standalone mode – no payment information is necessary.
    • Thanks to the new Smart Pages reporting function, marketers can now track page views, clicks, and more within the platform.
    • Marketers will be able to construct a new Smart Pages website and integrate the two sites directly from their Bing Places account.

    Read more: https://searchengineland.com/microsoft-announces-updates-to-smart-pages-website-builder-375065

  • Shopify

    Shopify

    Shopify Is Now Available on Roku

    Shopify merchants will be able to buy, build, and measure campaigns across the Roku streaming platform thanks to launching a new Roku app in the Shopify app store.

    The software opens SMBs to affordable TV campaigns as the first streaming platform available to Shopify merchants. In addition, the app allows business owners to set up, manage, and execute campaigns independently based on their ad budget.

    Key takeaways:

    • Advertisers get the Roku app from the Shopify App Store, choose their target audience and ad budget, and schedule their ads. 
    • They then upload their creations and are ready to launch their campaign. Roku is available in tens of millions of homes across the United States.
    • According to a study conducted by Roku and The Harris Poll, 49% of consumers claimed they noticed an ad while watching a streaming program, paused the broadcast, then went online to shop for a product suggested by the ad.

    Read more: https://martech.org/roku-announces-shopify-app/


    Shopify and Microsoft Have Teamed up to Offer Merchant Listings to Bing, Edge, and Microsoft Start

    Microsoft recently announced a partnership with Shopify to enhance product availability on its search engine, Microsoft Bing. And the Shopping tab on its Microsoft Edge browser and Microsoft Start its newly-established news service.

    Key takeaways:

    • Shopify merchants will be able to access the connection through an upgraded Microsoft Channel app. They’ll be able to make a few tweaks to broaden their reach across Microsoft’s network.
    • Merchants’ products will appear as free product listings on the Shopping tab of Bing, Microsoft Edge, and Microsoft Start.
    • According to Microsoft, Shopify’s connection with Microsoft will allow merchants to launch new ad campaigns and see marketing effectiveness in real-time reports in their Shopify store.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/25/microsoft-partners-with-shopify-to-bring-merchant-listings-to-bing-edge-and-microsoft-star/

  • Apple Now Allows App Developers to Contact Customers about Other Payment Methods

    Apple Now Allows App Developers to Contact Customers about Other Payment Methods

    Apple released a new set of App Store Guidelines, with three significant revisions. One of the adjustments is the outcome of a previously disclosed settlement deal with a group of app developers from the United States.

    Apple first said in August that it had struck a provisional deal with a group of American software developers in a class-action lawsuit filed against it in 2019. The agreement included several conditions, the most important of which allowed developers to advise their customers about paying for transactions made outside of their iOS app and the App Store. 

    Key takeaways:

    • Apple removed a provision from guideline 3.1.3 that said developers could not utilize information gathered within their app to target individual users outside of the app for payment methods other than Apple’s in-app purchases.
    • Its new guidelines specify that developers can inform their clients about alternative payment options outside of their app.
    • Another new rule specifies that apps may ask for customer information such as name and email. Still, the request must be voluntary and should not hinder the user from using the app.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/22/apple-updates-its-app-store-guidelines-to-permit-developers-to-contact-customers-about-other-payment-methods/

  • Youtube to Start Demonetizing Low-Quality Kids’ Videos

    Youtube to Start Demonetizing Low-Quality Kids’ Videos

    Suppose the video they generate is low-quality, fosters poor behavior or attitudes, or is overly commercial. In that case, YouTube says it will soon begin to demonetize some of the channels on its platform that market themselves as “made for kids.”

    The company had previously warned that this content would no longer be eligible for inclusion in its dedicated YouTube Kids app. But beginning next month, YouTube will also start enforcing new monetization policies, affecting creators’ eligibility for or removal from the YouTube Partner Program.

    Key takeaways:

    • YouTube first revealed its plans to strengthen its protections for kids in August. They stated that some of the changes would directly address forthcoming laws, while others would go above and beyond the required law.
    • Several consumer advocacy groups had been lobbying YouTube and regulators to end these videos, claiming they blurred the lines between content and advertising before this decision.
    • YouTube will start demonetizing content that promotes negative behaviors and attitudes (such as bullying, dishonesty, disrespect to others, dangerous pranks, unhealthy eating habits, and more).

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/25/youtube-warns-creators-it-will-start-to-demonetize-low-quality-kids-videos-next-month/

  • ‘High Risk’ Users Will Be Given Security Keys by Google

    ‘High Risk’ Users Will Be Given Security Keys by Google

    Google has announced that it will issue free hardware security keys to 10,000 “high-risk” users. This is only days after the company notified thousands of Gmail users that state-sponsored hackers had targeted them.

    More than 14,000 Gmail users were warned by Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) that they had been targeted in a state-sponsored phishing attempt by APT28 or Fancy Bear. APT28 is alleged to be made up of officers from Russia’s GRU intelligence agency. It has been operating for more than a decade. It is best known for hacking into the Democratic National Committee and its disinformation and election-influencing effort in the run-up to the 2016 presidential election in the United States.

    Key takeaways:

    • These warnings are common for activists, journalists, and government officials because government-backed entities usually target them.
    • Google stated that the security keys would be sent throughout 2021 to encourage users to sign up for its Advanced Protection Program (APP). This protects users with high visibility and sensitive data vulnerable to targeted online attacks.
    • To strengthen security for its most vulnerable users, Google also announced new and expanded relationships with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), UN Women, and NGO Defending Digital Campaigns (DDC).

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/08/google-to-give-security-keys-to-high-risk-users-targeted-by-government-hackers/

  • Instagram’s Marketing Api Now Includes Reels Ads

    Instagram’s Marketing Api Now Includes Reels Ads

    Facebook hopes to boost Reels ad usage by including Reels ad placements in its Instagram Marketing API. This will allow approved third-party platforms to create Reels advertisements as part of their digital ad flow.

    Key takeaways:

    • Facebook ad partners use its APIs to integrate Facebook functionality into their platforms. Thus, allowing solutions like Hootsuite to offer various publishing options across all of Facebook’s platforms.
    • With the inclusion of Reels ad spots, more brands will be able to run Reels campaigns.
    • Reels is now the app’s fastest-growing surface, with significant reach and growth potential.

    Read more: https://www.socialmediatoday.com/news/instagram-adds-reels-ads-into-its-marketing-api/608095/

  • PageRank (PR) in 2021: Heavily Effective

    PageRank (PR) in 2021: Heavily Effective

    What is PageRank?

    PageRank algorithm, also known as PR, is a system for ranking web pages. 

    It was developed by Larry Page and Sergey Brin at Stanford University in the late ’90s. PageRank was the basis Page and Brin created the Google search engine.

    pagerank Google PR

    Is PageRank still a factor? Is Google still using it? 

    Yes, it is. However, it’s not the same PageRank as it was in the early 2000s. Until this day, Google relies heavily on link authority as much as it depends on the content

    Google uses pagerank internally

    If you are interested more in PageRank like its original PageRank formula, Google’s battle against link spam, internal linking, and about search engines without backlinks — read a comprehensive article at https://www.link-assistant.com/news/google-pagerank-algorithm.html.

  • Instagram to Test an In-App Feature That Will Alert Users When There Are Service Interruptions

    Instagram to Test an In-App Feature That Will Alert Users When There Are Service Interruptions

    Instagram is testing a new feature that will notify users when the platform is experiencing an outage or technical issue. The notification will appear directly in users’ activity feeds. Instagram notes that it won’t send a notification every time there is an outage. Still, if it sees that users “are confused and looking for answers,” it will determine if a notification would make things clearer.

    Key takeaways:

    • The news comes as Facebook and its properties have been experiencing a lengthy outage.
    • It would eliminate the need for users to worry if the app isn’t launching due to a problem on their end.
    • For the next three months, Instagram will be testing a new feature in the United States.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/12/instagram-is-testing-an-in-app-feature-that-will-notify-users-of-service-outages/

  • Twitter Launches Spark Audio Creator Program

    Twitter Launches Spark Audio Creator Program

    The company announced the introduction of a new Spaces creator program. The three-month Spark initiative attempts to “find and reward great Spaces on Twitter with financial, technical, and marketing help.” Twitter encourages audio makers to apply for the initiative, saying it is available to both established Spaces audio broadcasts and experimental experiments.

    Key takeaways:

    • Since the debut of Spaces, Twitter has made it clear that its audio product would not be another test feature that will be phased out.
    • Anyone accepted into the Spark program is required to run an audio room twice a week for the duration of the three-month program. 
    • Participants will get paid $2,500 per month at a flat rate that isn’t affected by the Space’s performance and monthly ad credits to help promote their show.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/12/twitter-spaces-spark-creator-program/

  • Rotating Product Images in Google Search Results

    Rotating Product Images in Google Search Results

    As stated at the Search On event, Google can now display more visually browsable search results. With far larger photos and 3D product images that spin right in the search result snippet.

    Read more: https://www.seroundtable.com/google-search-results-rotating-product-images-32238.html

  • New Audio and Video Locks for Host in Google Meet

    New Audio and Video Locks for Host in Google Meet

    New audio and video locks are coming to Google Meet, allowing hosts to switch off the microphones and cameras of other attendees. In addition, you may now mute users and keep them from unmuting themselves until you unlock them with the new feature.

    When a host turns on an audio or video lock in the main meeting, it will also be applied to breakout rooms. Changes to a breakout room’s lock setting, on the other hand, do not affect the settings of other breakout rooms or the main conference.

    Key takeaways:

    • According to Google, audio and video locks give presenters more control over their meetings by allowing them to choose whether to enable different levels of user engagement.
    • Suppose the host activates the audio or video lock. In that case, participants using versions of the Android and iOS applications that do not support the new feature will be removed from the meeting.
    • All Google Workspace clients and G Suite Basic and Business subscribers are starting to receive the new audio and visual lock capabilities.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/22/google-meet-rolls-out-new-audio-and-video-locks-for-hosts/

  • Facebook Launches New Communication Tools for Businesses

    Facebook Launches New Communication Tools for Businesses

    Facebook is introducing several new features for small businesses, including audio and video calls in Messenger, live audio rooms, and more. These upgrades arrive just in time for the holiday shopping season, accounting for 20% of small businesses’ annual revenue.

    This holiday season, businesses will have more methods to engage with customers, including booking appointments straight through Facebook and more straightforward ways to generate ads.

    New Facebook Features for Businesses

    • Audio & Video Calling
    • Live Audio Rooms
    • Appointment Bookings
    • Changes to Personalized Ads
    • Updates to Facebook Business Suite
    • Updates to Ad Creation

    Read more: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/facebook-launches-audio-video-calls-for-businesses/424361/

  • Google Updates AMP, Mobile Friendly, and Rich Results Testing Tools

    Google Updates AMP, Mobile Friendly, and Rich Results Testing Tools

    Google is adding features from the URL Inspection tool to the AMP, Mobile Friendly, and Rich Results testing tools in Search Console. In addition, to address inconsistencies in the look and features of each of these products, Google is aligning them.

    Key takeaways:

    • To address inconsistencies in the look and features of each of these products, Google is aligning them.
    • The URL Inspection Tool is now “fully aligned” with the AMP, Mobile Friendly, and Rich Results testing tools.
    • All previous features have been standardized, and new URL Inspection Tool features have been added to the tools that didn’t have them before.

    Source: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-updates-amp-mobile-friendly-and-rich-results-testing-tools/422851/

  • Google Removes ‘Stalkerware’ Ads That Promoted Phone Spying Apps

    Google Removes ‘Stalkerware’ Ads That Promoted Phone Spying Apps

    This consumer-grade spyware software is frequently promoted to parents. It’s used to track their child’s calls, texts, apps, images, and location, ostensibly safeguarding them from predators. However, abusers have repurposed these apps, which are frequently designed to be installed secretly and without the device owner’s agreement, to spy on their wives’ phones.

    Key takeaways:

    • In recent years, industry-wide response to battle the spread of so-called “stalkerware” (or spouseware) has sparked an industry-wide reaction to prevent the proliferation of phone surveillance apps.
    • Antivirus companies have tried to improve their detection of stalkerware, and federal authorities are pursuing spyware creators who expose their victims to further security risks.
    • Google announced that ads promoting apps created “with the explicit goal of tracking or monitoring another person or their activities without their authorization” would no longer appear in users’ search results.

    Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2021/10/11/google-pulls-stalkerware-ads-that-promoted-phone-spying-apps/