Social Media Updates for Spring

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your social media strategy!

If you create content or run a business online, staying in the loop on social media changes is key. Instagram, Facebook, and all platforms are rolling out updates that could affect your reach, engagement, and daily workflow. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening now and what’s likely coming this summer.

Hashtags & Keywords:

Worth Paying Attention To

Instagram head Adam Mosseri recently clarified the role of hashtags again. Spoiler: they aren’t dead, and they do still help, but the platform is placing even more emphasis on keywords. Instagram’s search feature now looks closely at the actual text in your captions, so it’s important to:

  • Use natural, descriptive language

  • Include relevant keywords that reflect the post’s content

  • Keep hashtags intentional

You don’t need to ditch hashtags, just be smart with them and focus more on writing like a real person. Think about your audience, what hashtags might they be searching for?

The Edits App:

A New Tool for Creators

Meta is working on a new editing app called Edits, and it’s designed to help creators produce Reels without having to bounce between third-party apps. It’s expected to include:

  • Transitions, text overlays, and templates

  • AI-powered suggestions to improve flow

  • Easier tools for cutting, splicing, and adding audio

Personally, I’m really hoping this give us a way to edit with trending audio outside of the (super glitchy) editing portion of the Instagram app. If you’re someone who likes control over your content but hates complicated editing, this could be a big win. You can pre-download the app now so it automatically installs on your device once available.

Comment Downvotes:

A Quiet Shift for Better Conversations

Meta is rolling out a comment downvote feature on Instagram and Facebook. This isn’t a public “dislike” button, it’s more like a behind-the-scenes signal to help the platform identify low-quality comments. For business owners and creators, this means:

  • Fewer spammy or off-topic comments showing up on your posts

  • A cleaner, more supportive space for your audience (hopefully)

  • Less moderation stress on your end

It’s a small update that could make a big difference in how conversations unfold in your comment sections. I’m so curious to see how this looks once it rolls out.

Threads + Instagram:

Getting More Connected

If you’ve been using Threads (Meta’s text-based app), you might notice your posts showing up on Instagram too. The platforms are starting to integrate more, which means:

  • Threads posts could be surfaced in your followers’ IG feeds

  • You may get extra reach for text-based content

  • There’s a growing benefit to being active on both

It’s still early, but this is something to watch if you’re trying to get more from your content without doubling your workload.

Reels Templates + AI:

Trend Hopping Made Easier

Meta is still pushing Reels as top-performing content and now, they’re helping creators jump into trends with less effort. Expect more:

  • Ready-to-use templates for trending formats

  • Recommended audio clips and styles

  • AI-generated caption ideas and scripts

These tools are designed to speed up the creation process, but keep in mind: adding your voice and perspective is what makes your content stand out. Don’t lose yourself and your voice to AI. Make sure you take the suggestions and make them your own.

Platform Glitches:

Yep, They’re Still Happening

Stories refusing to upload? Reels editing crashing out? Comments not showing up? You’re not imagining it. Instagram and Facebook have both had more glitches lately, often tied to feature testing or back-end changes. If you’re running into bugs, here’s what to try:

  • Check for app updates

  • Clear your cache

  • Report the issue in-app

  • Uninstall & Reinstall (just remember to save drafts)

It’s frustrating, but these hiccups are usually temporary. Don’t let them derail your content plan. Just go with the flow… And if the flow ain’t flowin’ then it’s okay to not post that day or try again later.

Looking Ahead:

What Could Be Coming This Summer

There are a few trends and updates expected to roll out in the next couple of months:

  • Feed customization
    There’s talk of new ways to give users more control over what they see, possibly more support for static posts and a return to photo-first content options. Being able to move posts around on the grid. And Highlights may be moving to the grid instead of bubbles.

  • AI tools for content creation
    Think caption generators, photo editing support, and even automated DM replies for business accounts. I’m predicting a possible link between ChatGPT and Meta in the future.

  • Upgraded shopping features
    Shoppable Reels may get a boost with easier product tagging and possible in-app checkout options.

  • Monetization tools for creators
    More options like subscriptions, exclusive content, and bonuses could become available to accounts with engaged audiences.

Final Thoughts

These updates show that these platforms are continuing to evolve… And that it’s worth keeping your strategy flexible. Focus on writing solid captions, experimenting with new tools, and showing up consistently in a way that feels true to your brand (and your sanity). The platforms will keep changing, but your voice, your authenticity, and YOU is what keeps people coming back!


Chelsi Bartlett

Chelsi is the co-founder of the Small Biz Social Suite and is the founder, creative director, and instructor of Laurel & Ives Creative Marketing Agency.
Follow her on Instagram @laurel.and.ives

https://www.laurelandives.com/
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