Meta's Latest Growth Hack: Promoting Threads on Facebook

Social media giant Meta has unveiled a bold move to turbocharge Threads, its X/Twitter challenger. Imagine this as a superhero costume change, but in the digital world. Meta is weaving Threads posts into your Facebook feed, courtesy of Matt Navarra, and unlike previous exploits, there's no superhero exit hatch.

Screenshot: Matt Navarra / X

In a post, Meta cheerfully chirped that they've unleashed an update to let people feast their eyes on Threads content on Facebook and Instagram. It's like they're hosting a tech carnival, and we're all invited. But, fear not, dear readers, they're also all ears for feedback.

The drama began when Meta started experimenting with Threads posts on Instagram back in August. However, making Threads content mingle with Facebook without a "No thanks!" option has raised some eyebrows. Threads aficionados, seeing it as their digital haven away from the bustling streets of Facebook, are raising concerns. They'd rather keep their Threads and Facebook worlds apart.

The big question looming over this tech saga is whether Meta will don its superhero cape again and give users an escape route. While they're not spilling the beans yet, hints from the past suggest they might use their other tech leviathans to help Threads take off. Remember that time Threads hit 100 million sign-ups, and Mark Zuckerberg hinted it was mainly due to organic demand? Well, that statement vanished faster than a secret agent in a spy movie.

Recently, Threads has shown signs of life, with more engagement and downloads. But, SimilarWeb, our tech Sherlock Holmes, offers a different perspective. In the US, Threads' Android usage took a 40% nosedive in September compared to July. It's like the rollercoaster of tech life.

With Meta adding new features like post editing and keyword search, they're on a mission to supercharge Threads, even if their methods aren't everyone's cup of virtual tea. In this rapidly-shifting tech circus, heroes and villains make their daring moves, and Meta is right there in the spotlight.

Threads' destiny now dangles on a digital tightrope, balancing between the power of Meta and the whims of its users. Stay tuned for the next episode in this tech comedy-drama!

Read next: Creators Embrace AI: Productivity Soars, Ethical Dilemmas Loom
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Where Did Today's Most Influential Tech Leaders Start Their Careers?

In the 21st century, a new breed of leaders has emerged, and they're now among the most important and influential people in the world – tech CEOs.

Their leadership extends beyond the corporate world, shaping the future of technology, economics, society, and politics. As technology continues to advance, these leaders will remain central figures in our evolving global landscape, guiding us through the complexities and opportunities of the digital age.

But where do today's tech leaders begin their careers? That's the question that inspired this latest study by OnDeck. It analyses LinkedIn data to see how many employees at leading US tech companies go on to become CEOs.

You can see which US tech companies produce the most leaders in the article below. But first, let's look at why tech CEOs have become so influential.

Why do tech CEOs have so much influence?

Economic Power: Tech companies have become financial giants. The market capitalisation and revenues of these firms surpass the GDP of many nations. As the heads of these super-rich and super-wealthy companies, tech CEOs wield immense economic influence, playing pivotal roles in shaping global financial markets and trade dynamics.

Innovation and Disruption: Tech CEOs are synonymous with innovation and disruption. Their companies have revolutionized every industry and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. These groundbreaking innovations have had far-reaching effects on how people live, work, and interact, making tech CEOs instrumental in the ongoing digital transformation of society.

Data and Privacy: Tech CEOs have become central figures in discussions about data privacy and security. With the power to collect and control vast amounts of personal data, their decisions can significantly impact the privacy and security of billions. They are at the heart of debates on finding the right balance between convenience and personal data protection.

Global Connectivity: The platforms created by tech companies have connected the world like never before. Social media, search engines, and e-commerce have become critical tools for communication and commerce, giving tech CEOs unparalleled influence over global information flow and cultural exchange.

Corporate Responsibility: As tech companies have grown in power and influence, they've faced increasing scrutiny regarding their social and ethical responsibilities. Tech CEOs are now expected to lead their organizations and advocate for and implement socially responsible practices. This includes addressing issues such as environmental sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and navigating the ethical dilemmas around artificial intelligence.

Political Influence: Their ability to influence public opinion, as well as their substantial campaign contributions, has given tech leaders a seat at the table in political discussions and decision-making processes. Tech CEOs now play a central role in shaping political discourse and policy worldwide.

The most influential tech CEOs

Tech CEOs have emerged as the most influential figures, reshaping industries and impacting society globally.

Here are a few of the most notable:

Elon Musk (Tesla and SpaceX): Elon Musk's impact on the tech and transportation sectors is undeniable. He founded Tesla, leading the electric vehicle revolution, and SpaceX, pushing the boundaries of space exploration.

Tim Cook (Apple): As the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook has continued the legacy of innovation left by Steve Jobs. Under his leadership, Apple has expanded its product offerings, maintained a strong focus on privacy and security, and achieved remarkable financial success. Cook's influence extends to issues like environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

Jeff Bezos (Amazon): Jeff Bezos transformed Amazon from an online bookstore into an e-commerce behemoth and cloud computing giant through Amazon Web Services (AWS). His vision for innovation, customer-centricity, and bold expansion into new markets has profoundly impacted the retail and cloud computing industries.

Mark Zuckerberg (Meta, formerly Facebook): Mark Zuckerberg is synonymous with the rise of social media. He co-founded Facebook, now part of Meta Platforms, Inc., which includes Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus. Few people in the 21st century have had so much influence on how we connect, communicate, and share information.

Tech companies that produce the most CEOs

If you'd like to become a tech CEO, the best place to get your corporate training is Booz Allen Hamilton. This US defence contractor has produced more tech CEOs than any other US company.

According to LinkedIn data analysed by OnDeck, 3.14% of the former employees now work as CEOs.

AOL comes next, with 2.68% of its former staff now making a mark as business leaders. Some of the other big tech names with a reputation for producing future business leaders include Meta, Microsoft, Upwork, and Yahoo.

Read next: 6 Lessons to Learn from the Smartest CEOs in the World
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

AI Generated Content Shows Explosive Growth — AI Image, AI Video, and AI Written Searches Soar As Per Google Trends Data

In a remarkable turn of events, AI-related search terms have witnessed staggering growth over the past two years, demonstrating the ever-increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in our digital lives.

The statistics reveal remarkable progress, with search terms related to AI-powered content experiencing a surge that has left technologists in awe.

Week after week, the numbers have been steadily climbing, reflecting the unstoppable momentum of AI tech across the globe. Whether it's AI images, AI video, or AI written content, the growth percentages have defied expectations and charted a course towards a future where AI is an integral part of our daily existence.

AI Image Searches Skyrocket by 4900%

First on the list is "AI image" searches, which have skyrocketed by a staggering 4900% since September 2021. These searches, which initially stood at a modest 2 points (in terms of popularity), have now reached an astonishing 100 in October 2023. For more context, top searches were "image ai generator" and "ai generator", while "Midjourney" and "Bing ai image generator" were crowned as rising stars. This remarkable increase demonstrates the growing interest of visual AI in our digital world.

AI Video Searches Not Far Behind

AI video searches are not far behind, showing an incredible growth rate of 1100%. Starting at just 3 points in September 2021, they have climbed to a substantial 36 points by October 2023. When it comes to rising terms, "Chatgpt", "Pictory" and "Runway ai video" were at the top. This surge reflects the expanding interest in AI-driven video content across various platforms.

AI Written Searches Double

AI written searches have more than doubled during this period, with a growth rate of 200%. From an initial value of nearly 0 point in September 2021, they now stand at 2 points in October 2023. When it comes to rising and top terms, a concerning trend emerges, as most searchers appears to be interested in knowing if a particular piece of content is "written by AI" or not.

It's important to note that various countries exhibit diverse preferences in their AI-related searches. People in Poland are more interested in knowing about AI created images as the country lead in AI image searches with an impressive 80%, while Vietnam shows strong interest in AI video searches at 74%, leaving all other countries behind. Kenya emerges as a prominent player with a 5% surge in AI written searches (which is highest among all other countries), underscoring its growing focus on AI-generated text.

The impressive growth in these search terms illustrates the evolving landscape of AI technologies. It highlights the increasing reliance on AI for image and video searches, as well as the growing importance of AI in generating written content, which also presents a good opportunity for AI content detection tools. The future of AI continues to hold tremendous potential, and these numbers are a testament to the expanding role of AI in our digital lives.

As we move forward, it will be fascinating to see how these trends continue to evolve and shape the digital world, practically in terms of improving productivity.

Stay tuned for more updates on the rapidly growing world of technology and artificial intelligence.

Read next: IDC's Crystal Ball Reveals GenAI's Magical Ascension
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Tech Leaders' 2024 Playbook: Growth, AI, and Franchise Digital Delivery

In the world of tech, 2023 is shaping up to be a year filled with innovation and opportunity. Gartner's recent survey sheds light on the advice for technology leaders, and it's all about growth, collaboration, and operational efficiency.

First things first, the focus is on what needs to be accomplished in the upcoming year. Growth is the buzzword, and it's on everyone's lips, especially CEOs. It's like the New Year's resolution for businesses, except it's about expansion, not hitting the gym.

Productivity, surprisingly, doesn't get much love on the priority list. Maybe tech leaders are onto something we haven't figured out yet. But what's interesting is that the worry over recession has eased, and now it's all about business risks. The tides are changing, my friends.

In this evolving landscape, CIOs have a couple of action items on their to-do list. They need to set the stage for a robust business strategy and paint the AI future that executives can bet on. CEOs are on the hunt for "responsible profitability" and continue their journey into the digital realm.

Digital is like an endless adventure, and companies are just setting sail or barely mid-voyage. As for supply chains, "reglobalization" and talent are hot topics. It's like a plot twist in a business novel.

But, let's not forget that AI is taking center stage in boardroom discussions. CEOs are eyeing it, likely getting help from our AI buddy, ChatGPT. AI is set to make waves, and CIOs are looking at it for growth, not layoffs.

Now, how do tech leaders navigate this exciting world? Studies offer different opinions, but partnering with business leaders investing in digital technology is key. It's like a tech-business convergence—sharing the load and success.

Franchising digital delivery is a buzzword, too. It's about businesses and IT owning the process together. Co-ownership is the secret sauce, leading to better outcomes and reducing risks. It's like turning your business ship into a well-oiled machine.

Now, when it comes to investments, the usual suspects are in the spotlight: cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud platforms, and AI/machine learning. No surprises there. Tech leaders are preparing for a digital revolution.

But how can CIOs contribute to growth? It's all about simplifying the business, finding AI treasures, and exploring new digital opportunities. Think of it as a treasure hunt with a tech twist.

For midsize companies, it's a different ball game. They're focused on operational excellence and looking to integrate their tools. Security vendor consolidation is trending, and the cloud is evolving for them. It's like the midsize companies are the superheroes of operational efficiency.

Feel free to explore the following charts for additional insights:

H/T: Gartner/ PCMAG

So, 2024 promises to be a year of growth, innovation, and collaboration in the tech world. Get ready for the ride, because it's going to be a wild one!

Rad next: IDC's Crystal Ball Reveals GenAI's Magical Ascension
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Netflix's Price Hike Dilemma: To Stream or Not to Stream

In a world where every online service seems to be raising prices faster than your blood pressure during a scary movie, Netflix is no exception. They recently announced a price hike for two of their four plans, leaving consumers scratching their heads like they just watched a plot twist they never saw coming.

So, let's get to the nitty-gritty. A whopping 39 percent of Netflix subscribers and potential binge-watchers are eyeing the exit if the price goes up. That's right; they'd cancel Netflix faster than a TV show you lost interest in after the first season. On the flip side, 31 percent are ready to embrace the cheaper, ad-supported plan, probably thinking they can endure those annoying ads – it's like a quirky friend who talks too much.

But hold on, there's still that 29 percent who are raising their hands for the ad-free bliss. They refuse to compromise, and honestly, who can blame them? After all, who wants to hear about car insurance in the middle of a gripping series?

Now, onto the prices, because, well, money talks, right? The basic plan, which was already a budget option, will now set you back $12 instead of the old $10. Premium Netflix lovers, those who can't get enough of those 4K streaming vibes, are looking at a future bill of $23, up from $20. But don't worry, the ad-free standard plan is holding steady at $15.49, while the ad-supported cousin is still hanging out at $6.99.

Oh, and here's a little plot twist of our own: a recent survey revealed that those who savor their Netflix sans ads are less likely to jump ship. A whopping 48 percent of them are sticking around for the good stuff. Only 17 percent in this group can even fathom the horror of watching ads. It's a tough choice, but hey, it's like picking between your favorite characters in a show – you just can't make everyone happy.

Courtesy of Civic Science.

In the wild world of video streaming, price hikes are the new normal. So, as Netflix tries to balance its books, subscribers are left pondering whether it's worth sticking around for the next season of their binge-watching journey. The choice is yours, fellow couch potato, and it's a comedy-drama all on its own.

Read next: Meta's Wild Ride: Facebook's Funhouse Losing Steam
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

Meta's Wild Ride: Facebook's Funhouse Losing Steam

In the whimsical world of Meta Platforms Inc., the third quarter brought a carnival of innovation, from AI wizardry to the launch of Threads, a new social playground. But don't let the flashy lights and catchy tunes distract you from the alarming signs of wear and tear on the merry-go-round of its advertising empire.

Let's take a spin on this amusing rollercoaster of numbers and insights:

Facebook's Freefall:

Traffic to Meta's business hub, business.facebook.com, took a nosedive of 11.4% in Q3, hinting at a waning enthusiasm for placing ads or any monkey business with Facebook, Instagram, and the Meta gang.

According to SimilarWeb data, worldwide, Facebook.com had a -6.4% tumble when it comes to web traffic, while Instagram.com surprisingly surged by 2.9%.

In the Land of Stars and Stripes, Meta's mobile apps had a bumpy ride when it comes to monthly active users. Facebook -3.8% decline, and Instagram -8.2%.

Where's the Party, Threads?

Threads joined the circus in July, creating quite a buzz. However, the initial frenzy turned into a muffled hum. In the US, September saw Threads on Android take a nosedive of 40% from its launch days.

For some context, Threads is still ahead of Bluesky, another social media contender. Threads boasts a whopping 65 million monthly active users globally just on Android, while Bluesky, well, it's still sipping on a small invite-only cocktail. Threads may be the new kid on the block, but it's no match for the big shots like X, Instagram, or Facebook.

The Metaverse Masquerade:

Meta, once the shining star of the metaverse, is still dancing to that tune. Their Meta Quest 3D headsets and other hardware are gaining traction. The website for Meta's Horizon Worlds metaverse had a traffic fiesta over the summer, showing promise.

Will there be a surprising plot twist? These digital numbers paint a gloomy picture, but Meta's magic tricks might have a surprise in store. They're working on audience growth strategies while juggling cost control initiatives and diversification away from their ad-centric past.

So, as the Meta circus marches on, with Threads doing somersaults and the metaverse keeping us entertained, who knows what surprises the next act will bring?

Take a look at the charts below for more insights:

Read next: Meta's Threads Surpasses X in Q3 Downloads: A Deep Dive into DataAI's Latest Insights
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World

WhatsApp Is Rolling Out Much Needed Chat Privacy Feature and Quick Action Bar

WhatsApp, that trusty companion of late-night secrets and viral videos, is gearing up to unveil a nifty new feature. Soon, you'll be able to cloak your locked chats in secrecy. Yes, you heard it right, your clandestine conversations can be even more covert!

This exciting development comes via the latest WhatsApp beta for Android update, version 2.23.22.9, available on Google Play Store. The brilliant sleuths at WABetaInfo unearthed this gem. So, what's the deal with this new feature? It’s designed to up your chat privacy game by hiding those locked chats more effectively.

At present, the entry point to your locked chats is plain for all to see in your chat list if you've got even one classified convo. Well, the forthcoming update lets you perform some chat magic. After enabling this feature, you can banish that entry point from sight and only reveal it by entering a secret code into the search bar. It’s like having a secret handshake for your chats!

But that's not all, folks! WhatsApp is also showing some love to its business users. With the latest WhatsApp Business beta for Android update, version 2.23.22.10, also on Google Play Store, they're rolling out a snazzy new quick action bar feature.

This feature adds a shiny new icon above the microphone button, making it super convenient for users to perform a slew of actions in a jiffy. You can create orders, access quick replies, and send products from your catalog with ease. These functions were already accessible through the chat attachment menu, but this nifty update makes them more accessible, streamlining interactions with customers.

In conclusion, WhatsApp is stepping up its game with these new features, ensuring your chats stay under wraps while making it a breeze for businesses to engage with customers. So, stay tuned for these exciting updates coming to your WhatsApp soon!

Read next: New study finds that daily time spent on social media has dropped in 36 of 48 markets
by Irfan Ahmad via Digital Information World