Top Highlights from November 26- December 2!
Catch the Weekly Buzz with BAL! Discover the top social media news, creative highlights, and exciting collaborations.
WhatsApp now offers voice message transcripts, letting users read audio messages instead of listening. The feature, rolling out globally, supports multiple languages and improves accessibility for those on the go. With this update, WhatsApp continues to enhance user convenience and communication flexibility.
Instagram is testing a new collage feature for Stories, allowing users to create freeform designs with images from their camera roll. Unlike the existing Layout option, this updated version offers more flexibility for creating unique visual content. The platform has been exploring collage tools in various forms, including group chats, as part of its efforts to enhance user creativity and engagement.
TikTok is introducing age restrictions on beauty filters to protect teen mental health. Filters with subtle appearance changes will be blocked for under-18 users, addressing concerns about unrealistic beauty standards. New resources for reporting harmful content are also rolling out in 13 European countries. Additionally, TikTok is enhancing tools to detect underage accounts as part of its broader safety efforts.
New LinkedIn research highlights the growing impact of B2B influencers on purchasing decisions, particularly during the consideration phase of the buyer journey. Industry experts, thought leaders, and even employees are proving essential in building trust and shaping perceptions. Tools like Thought Leader Ads amplify this influence, delivering a 252% increase in click-through rates and a 48% boost in lead completions. As LinkedIn evolves into a hub for professional connections and insights, B2B influencer marketing continues to drive measurable success for brands.
Instagram has introduced new updates to its Direct Messages (DMs), enhancing user experience and connectivity. The updates include improved search functionality, the ability to reply to a specific message more easily, and fun tools like sending GIFs directly from the text bar. These changes aim to make conversations faster, more interactive, and seamless, reflecting Instagram’s commitment to staying user-focused and innovative.
Google Labs introduces GenChess, an AI-powered platform where users can design custom chess sets with text prompts and unique themes. Players can refine pieces and face AI opponents with adjustable difficulty. The launch aligns with the World Chess Championship and Google’s FIDE collaboration for an AI coding challenge on Kaggle. Gemini Advanced subscribers will soon enjoy Chess Gem, a conversational chess experience. This initiative showcases Google’s fusion of AI, creativity, and chess.
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Apple’s holiday ad centers on the new Hearing Aid feature of AirPods Pro 2, telling a heartfelt story of a father with hearing loss. During a Christmas celebration, he uses the AirPods to hear his daughter’s guitar performance clearly for the first time. Flashbacks illustrate his past struggles with muffled sounds, brought to life by Oscar-winning sound design. The ad aligns with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, emphasizing Apple’s focus on accessibility. Through this narrative, Apple showcases how innovation can transform lives and strengthen family connections.
Burger King and KFC France have surprised the world with their first-ever collaboration: the BFF burger, available only in France until December 16. This unique burger comes in two versions—a flame-grilled meat option at Burger King and a crispy chicken option at KFC. The campaign launched with playful teasers, like swapped packaging and enigmatic ads featuring both brands’ crews dancing together. The partnership is celebrated nationwide through OOH ads, social media, and a humorous TV spot set to “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”.
The Ordinary’s “Slowvember” campaign rejects the rushed, misleading nature of Black Friday, encouraging consumers to shop with intention. Offering a 23% discount all month long, the brand highlights integrity and transparency while closing its stores and website on Black Friday itself. The campaign features bold outdoor ads with luminous price tags and sharp copy, exposing the false urgency and questionable tactics of typical Black Friday sales. By challenging industry norms, The Ordinary inspires shoppers to prioritize thoughtful consumption over impulsive buying.
Disney’s latest short film reimagines the timeless message of unity and hope behind the classic song “It’s a Small World.” Celebrating the legacy of the legendary Sherman Brothers, the campaign emphasizes the song’s enduring relevance in promoting togetherness across cultures and generations. Through poignant storytelling and visuals, Disney continues to inspire audiences with a message that transcends borders and differences.
Chevrolet’s “The Sanctuary” tells the heartfelt story of a father and son reconnecting during a Thanksgiving drive in their 1978 Chevy C10. Rooted in themes of love, connection, and heritage, the ad highlights the enduring bond between generations and the memories that classic vehicles carry. With a message of resilience and legacy, the campaign continues Chevrolet’s tradition of delivering emotionally charged holiday stories that celebrate family and community.
Airbnb’s first-ever Christmas ad, “Avoid a Santastrophe,” humorously brings to life the challenges Santa might face in a hotel, contrasting them with the warmth and magic of an Airbnb stay. Told in a rhyming narrative inspired by “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” the ad highlights the thoughtfulness behind Airbnb homes, from space for a Christmas tree to Santa-friendly chimneys. With enchanting details, like the Airbnb logo subtly stitched into Santa’s coat, the campaign celebrates how Airbnb makes the holidays more memorable and merry for families everywhere.
Chanel’s “Winter Tale” holiday campaign stars Italian model Vittoria Ceretti in a magical winter wonderland that embodies the festive spirit. The campaign spotlights Chanel’s most coveted gifts, from iconic fragrances to luxurious skincare and makeup, including a special edition of Chanel No.5 Eau de Parfum. The 30-second hero film tells the charming story of a girl in a snowless land who makes a heartfelt wish for snow, beautifully brought to life with Chanel’s signature elegance. Adding to the festive allure, this year’s gift wrapping features a delicate Chanel snowflake motif, blending timeless style with holiday magic.