Stay connected in the world of tech and media! Plug into this week’s top headlines from Facebook Reels to the new Apple iMac. Read on below for our weekly round-up!
Facebook Allows Creators to Experiment with Multiple Versions of Reels
Facebook is introducing new tools for creators, the most significant being a Reels A/B testing feature. A/B testing, a prevalent marketing method, allows content variations to be compared for engagement levels. With this tool, creators can test up to four different thumbnails and captions for a single Reel. Different versions will be shown to distinct audience segments for 30 minutes, with the most viewed version becoming the default unless manually changed. Currently, mobile-exclusive, future enhancements may include AI-generated captions and thumbnails. Additionally, creators can manage their content more efficiently with a professional dashboard, displaying post performance and offering options like hiding or deleting posts. Furthermore, Facebook has extended content performance data from 28 to 90 days and added metrics such as relative Reel performance, viewer retention, and replay counts.
Nomad’s latest iPad folios reintroduce the classic leather feel
Nomad has released new leather folio cases for iPad Air and iPad Pro. While Apple has moved away from leather, Nomad is embracing it with designs similar to Apple’s Smart Folio but with a leather finish. These cases attach magnetically, automatically wake/sleep the iPad, and can be folded for landscape orientation. They also have a microfiber interior for screen protection. The Plus model, costing an additional $10, has a magnetic flap for the Apple Pencil. Available in black or brown, they fit various iPad sizes. However, these cases offer limited protection, no portrait support, and minimal grip enhancements. They’re also pricier, starting at $120 for the 11-inch size. While they feature strong magnets and are easy to use, there are cheaper alternatives on the market with similar or better features.
Apple unveils a faster M3 iMac
Apple has unveiled a refreshed 24-inch iMac at its “Scary Fast” event, introducing the new M3 chip, which is reportedly twice as fast as the previous M1 version. The M3 chip boasts an eight-core CPU, up to a 10-core GPU, with options for up to 24GB RAM and 2TB storage. This upgrade promises to increase the speed of productivity apps by up to 30% and significantly enhance the performance for creative tasks. However, the iMac design remains unchanged, retaining the same seven colors, slim profile, white bezels, 1080p camera, speakers, USB configurations, and 4.5K Retina display. The new iMac incorporates more recycled materials, including 100% recycled aluminum for its stand and recycled components internally. This update was anticipated, as Apple skipped the M2 chip for the iMac. The M3 iMac is priced starting at $1,299 for the eight-core GPU variant, with preorders available now and shipping set for November 7th.
Google is simplifying the shopping experience with small businesses
Google is rolling out new Shopping features to support small businesses. Merchants can now use a “small business” label, making it easier for consumers to identify local or smaller-scale shops. This label will be visible in Google Maps. Likewise, products from these businesses will have a “small business” tag in Google Search. This feature is currently available to US-based retailers using Google’s Merchant Center, Business Profile, and the Google & YouTube shopping app on Shopify. Google will automatically assign this attribute to certain listings based on various factors like web traffic and product range. However, larger businesses won’t be able to use this label. Google is depending on businesses to self-identify, and only authorized individuals can enable this setting. There is no clarification on measures against potential misuse of the label.
Netflix’s new ad-supported tier offers ad-free episodes as a perk for frequent viewers
Netflix is introducing a feature to enhance the binge-watching experience for its ad-supported tier subscribers. Starting next year, after viewing three consecutive episodes, the next episode will be ad-free. This move aims to retain viewers and increase engagement. Since its inception a year ago, Netflix’s ad-supported plan has gained 15 million monthly users, showcasing its growing appeal. With the recent price increase, Netflix is promoting its $6.99-per-month ad-supported plan, which has been profitable.