Social Media Giants Face Trial Over Alleged Addiction to Minors

A US court has denied social media companies' appeal to defend against lawsuits claiming they designed their products to be addictive to minors. The consolidated federal suit will proceed, marking a significant development in the ongoing litigation.

TikTok Lays Off 250 Employees, Closes Nashville Office

The social media giant is streamlining its operations, citing a move to better align its teams for long-term growth. The Nashville office, which housed some of TikTok's content moderation team, will close on October 5.

Disney Partners with TikTok to Bring Fan-Made Content to Disney+

Disney is teaming up with TikTok to feature fan-made videos about Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars in the Disney+ app. The partnership aims to tap into the next generation of talent on social media platforms.

The Rise of the Universal Entertainment App: How AI Is Changing the Game

The big entertainment apps are converging, and AI is the driving force behind this trend. With AI, companies can offer a wide range of content formats, making it harder for users to switch between apps.

TikTok's Ambitious Push to Become a 'Super App'

TikTok is expanding beyond social media, adding features like hotel booking, sports highlights, and financial services, aiming to become a one-stop platform for users.

YouTube Rolls Out Major Short-Form Video Changes

The platform aims to create a more intuitive experience by introducing a speed-up feature, removing the dislike button, and adding a 'Clear Screen mode'.

Social Media's Next Evolution: User-Controlled Algorithms

For years, social media giants controlled what users saw in their feeds. Now, platforms are handing over some of their power by allowing users to personalize their algorithms with the help of AI.

UK Unveils Sweeping Social Media Ban for Users Under 16

The UK government plans to impose a ban on social media use for children under 16, citing concerns over mental health, bullying, and addiction.

TikTok Launches TikTok Pro Events App for Cultural Milestones

TikTok has announced the launch of TikTok Pro Events, a standalone app dedicated to cultural milestones like the FIFA World Cup. The app allows users to engage with other fans, access curated creator feeds, and earn exclusive benefits.

TikTok's Ambitious Leap into a 'Super App' Ecosystem

TikTok's expansion beyond social media reaches new heights as it integrates hotel booking, fintech services, and more, competing directly with Google and fintech startups.

Universal Music Group and TikTok Renew Agreement to Combat Unauthorized AI Music

Universal Music Group and TikTok have renewed their licensing agreement, committing to remove unauthorized AI-generated music from the platform and improve artist and songwriter attribution.

TikTok Unveils TikTok GO, Allowing Users to Book Travel Experiences Within the App

TikTok's new feature lets users discover and book hotels, attractions, and experiences directly within the app, marking a broader push into travel and e-commerce.

TikTok Unveils Ad-Free Subscription Plan in the U.K.

TikTok introduces a £3.99/month ad-free plan for users 18+, available over the coming months, amidst the U.K.'s GDPR regulations.

TikTok Rolls Out Campus Hub Feature for College Students

TikTok's new feature allows students to connect with classmates and stay plugged into campus life, even when they're away from campus.

Australia Unveils Draft Legislation to Tax Big Tech on News

The Australian government has proposed a 2.25% levy on the revenues of Meta, Google, and TikTok, unless they strike commercial deals with local news publishers.

The Dark Side of Virality: How Marketing Firms Manipulate the Internet

Marketing firms like Chaotic Good are using social media manipulation to create viral trends and promote their clients' music and products, blurring the line between authenticity and inauthenticity.

Cameo Partners with TikTok to Boost Popularity

Cameo teams up with TikTok to allow creators to offer personalized videos directly to their fans, aiming to increase earnings and simplify the process for fans.

TikTok Launches Secret Emoji Game in DMs, Adds Competitive Element

TikTok has introduced a secret emoji game that can be accessed in DMs, allowing users to compete with each other in a fun and playful way.