Regional Australia SMB Support, Google Search Update & More

Business News from 13 December to 17 December 2021

Monday, 13 December 2021 News Highlights

• The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has forecasted the Australian post-Christmas sales should hit a new high of $21 billion.
• Instagram has started enabling users to comment on Reels, providing another way for creators to connect with their audience.
• Meta will be introducing a new professional mode for Facebook profiles, allowing users to make money with features that were previously exclusive to Facebook Pages.

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Tuesday, 14 December 2021 News Highlights

• Facebook has been testing a creator support site to help creators with questions through a live chat with a support agent.
• A $8.6 million Regional Small Business Support Program pilot will start in early 2022 to aid regional business recovery.
• The Andrews Labour Government (VIC) will be opening a $25,000 to $100,000 Small-Scale and Craft Program awards grants to eligible small-scale and craft agribusinesses.
• Apple Maps will be expanding its detailed coverage with better navigation, Look Around and other features to Australia.

Wednesday, 15 December 2021 News Highlights

• Google’s update to the review snippets rich results report has reduced the number of review objects in the report, affecting those sites with implemented reviews or ratings structured data.
• Snapchat has revealed the success of the Spotlight initiative, with more than $250M paid out to Creators in 2021, leading to more brand growth initiatives in the future.
• Countries, including Australia, are introducing national legislation that will change social media regulations in 2022, this may include platforms and profile holders (including businesses) being responsible for online bullying via comments.

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Thursday, 16 December 2021 News Highlights

• TikTok has been testing a Windows program called TikTok Live Studio, which would allow users to log in with their TikTok account and stream directly to TikTok Live from their desktop.
• YouTube is launching a new link format feature called ‘Places Mentioned’ found within the video description box that provides “an easy and visual way for viewers to learn about locations mentioned” in the video.

Friday, 17 December 2021 News Highlights

• Google has launched its updated autocomplete search suggestions, including a column providing easier access to content and businesses related to your search.
• Instagram is launching a new Profile Embed feature that will embed a miniature version of a user’s profile into their website to showcase content or link to someone else’s profile.
• Spotify has recently invested in an Australia-based podcast technology company called Whooshkaa, who helps radio broadcasters monetise, edit and distribute radio shows as podcasts.