your April trends and news recap

Hey there! It’s that time again, your monthly dose of social media insight has arrived. Each month, I’ll be dropping in to share the latest trends, updates, and insights to keep you ahead of the curve. That’s where I come in to make it easier, quicker, and dare I say… fun?

trend alert: 'I almost forgot this was the whole point'

I'm sure we've all seen the "I almost forgot this was the whole point" trend because it's working. It invites audiences to slow down and reconnect with authenticity. In a feed full of AI-generated content and heavily curated reels, this trend is a reminder to take a step back.

how to use it:

Most people are using this trend with simple, feel-good moments. This trend is mostly done with short videos and posted as a reel, with the title "I almost forgot this was the whole point." Brands are jumping in too, using it to showcase products in a more organic, relatable way.

trend alert: shoppable posts

Brands are leaning into social commerce to create seamless shopping experiences directly within social platforms. This trend is blurring the lines between content and commerce, providing brands with a way to drive sales while maintaining an authentic presence.

how to use it:

Start by adding shoppable posts and using live shopping events on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Optimize your profiles with shop sections, partner with influencers for shoppable content, and use stories with swipe-up links to offer easy, direct shopping to your brand.

Instagram update: the launch of Blend

Instagram has officially launched “blend” for reels, a shared feed of recommended videos you can create with a friend or group chat. Instead of sending reels back and forth, you’ll see a combined stream based on your interests. The feed also updates over time, adapting to the reels you share.

how to use it:

This lets you and a friend (or group) create a shared feed of recommended videos based on your combined interests. Just start a blend in your DMs and watch it evolve as you interact and share reels together!

Instagram update: lockable posts

Instagram is testing a new feature that allows you to lock posts behind a code, requiring viewers to enter the code to access the content. This could be a creative way to engage specific audience segments, like superfans, previous customers, or certain regions. Brands and creators could use it for exclusive discounts, targeted updates, or to share content with a select group of followers.

how to use it:

Instagram’s code-locked posts are a powerful way to share exclusive content with specific audiences. Use them to offer VIP perks, early access, or private updates perfect for building loyalty, boosting engagement, and creating a sense of community.

That’s a wrap on your April social media trends and updates! From tapping into authenticity with new trends to experimenting with Instagram’s newest features, there’s no shortage of creative ways to stay ahead!