Instant Games, Instant Bucks
Facebook launched “Instant Games” in 2016, letting user play games like Pac-Man and Words with Friends directly within the Messenger app. Developers can now add in-app purchases and “rewarded video ads” to their games. This should attract higher-quality games to the platform, which is a huge opportunity for Facebook to compete with Google Play and Apple App Store, especially since Facebook’s desktop gaming platform has withered away. Are you a developer ready to cash-in? Click here to get more information. (Source: TechCrunch)
Spotify Spotting The Next Big Hit
Spotify announced the launch of Rise, a program that identifies and features 16 emerging artists per year. The selected artists are promoted through “multi-tiered marketing” and “editorial programming” on Spotify, and will be treated to “one-of-a-kind experiential events.” They will also release audio and video content to tell their personal stories. In a nutshell, these artists will be given free marketing out of Spotify’s pocket. Jam out to the first four Rise artists by clicking on their names: Kim Petras, Lauv, Russell Dickerson, and Trippie Redd. (Source: CNET)
A Safer Nest for Twitter
Twitter released a schedule of updates for the remainder of 2017 that address harassment and abuse. Some measures include suspending accounts that promote violence, expanding its definition of “non-consensual nudity,” and cracking down on abusive display names. Twitter also aims to respond to reports faster and provided more transparency concerning account suspensions. For the full calendar of updates that should lead to a safe start for 2018, click here. (Source: The Verge)
