Weekly Digital Roundup (3.3.14)

We found some staggering stats about Snapchat, good news for brands on Facebook, and more reasons for fellas to let their feelings out on social media. Without further ado, here’s what we found to be the biggest news, so you may comfortably remain snuggled under a rock.

Snapchat Goes to College

A recent study found that more than three-quarters of college students use Snapchat daily. The majority of pictures sent through the mobile app were selfies—no surprise there. Marketers are rushing to find ways to leverage this mobile app, with a number of brands already using the service to engage with customers and interact with fans. Oh, college kids. What would Evan Spiegel do without you?

Getting Extra Exposure

Finally, a Facebook update in favor of brands! An update to the newsfeed algorithm allows brands to tag other brands, making the content visible to a wider audience. So now if PRPL tags Lil Wayne in a status, that content will float in the feeds of his own followers, as well. This will seemingly allow brands to ride the coattails of other Facebook pages. Good for the little guys!

Tweeting Your Tears

It's alright, bro. Studies show that even though women are more active on social platforms, men are more likely to cyber-share information they wouldn’t normally reveal in person. Psychologist Seth Meyers said, "When men are texting, e-mailing, or communicating through another technological channel, they feel less threatened and are more likely to share their thoughts and feelings.” Go on, let it all out.

China on My Mind

LinkedIn has its sights set on China (like the rest of the world). The professional social network is testing Chinese-language versions of its platform in hopes to expand reach into markets where competitors like Facebook, Twitter, and Google have failed. LinkedIn’s President of China Derek Shen said, “Our mission is to connect the world’s professionals and create greater economic opportunity—and this is a significant step towards achieving that goal.”

Bye FB Email, Whats Up WhatsApp

If you were one of the limited Facebook email users, your short stint away from the mainstream has met its end. The social network is pulling the plug on its @facebook.com email service due to a plain lack of interest. Instead, the company will focus on its mobile messaging app and integrating WhatsApp into the Facebook family. On to the next thing!Here's to another exciting week in digital.