Social platforms are evolving fast, and staying ahead of these changes can make all the difference in your content strategy. From smarter search algorithms to new engagement features and trending post formats, here’s what’s happening across Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and LinkedIn this month.
Instagram and TikTok Search Are Getting Smarter
Both TikTok and Instagram are shifting toward keyword-based discovery rather than relying on hashtags. TikTok’s algorithm now prioritizes what you say and write in your captions, and Instagram is following suit with new “search shortcuts” that automatically tag your content by topic.
How to Use This:
- Say your keywords out loud in your video (TikTok can read them).
- Use hyper-niche phrases, such as “VA loan requirements in Kansas,” to boost SEO visibility.
- Avoid using irrelevant hashtags such as #fyp or #gogiants, as they confuse the algorithm and reduce reach.
Pro Tip: Focus on high-quality keywords that describe exactly what your audience is searching for.
LinkedIn Now Shows Saves and Sends
LinkedIn has joined the “quiet engagement” movement by tracking saves and direct message shares alongside likes and comments.
Use this data to find which posts truly resonate and might be worth resharing, repurposing, or expanding into video content.
Threads Expands Messaging Features
Meta’s Threads platform continues to grow as a viable alternative to X (formerly Twitter).
New updates include:
- Group chats with up to 50 users
- Expanded direct message access across Europe
With more engagement moving to private DMs, this is a strategic move for Threads, improving community interaction and giving creators more ways to connect.
Instagram Adds Picture-in-Picture and Auto-Scroll for Reels
A few Reels updates worth noting:
- Picture-in-picture mode allows multitasking while watching Reels.
- Auto-scroll lets you watch hands-free, perfect for continuous viewing.
To enable:
- Go to your Reels tab.
- Tap the “…” button.
- Turn on “Auto-scroll.”
New Instagram Friends Map
You can now share your location with Close Friends or custom lists and see their tagged content directly on an interactive map.
To Access:
- Go to your DMs.
- Tap the Map icon.
- Adjust your Settings to choose who can see your location.
Even if you do not share your own location, you can still explore local creators’ content.
Trending Instagram Formats for October 2025
1. Reveal Carousel
Create a multi-slide post that slowly reveals something, such as a new product launch or event. This format encourages engagement and keeps viewers scrolling.
2. Betrayal List
A Notes app-style trend listing funny “betrayals,” such as bad Wi-Fi or cold food. Great for relatable humor or industry-specific frustrations.
3. The Circle of Life
Use emojis to show your daily loop, for example, work, coffee, and repeat. Minimal, visual, and ideal for stories or Reels.
4. You Look Happier
Respond to the text “You look happier” with a lighthearted reason, such as “I went to Pilates” or “I bought new clothes.” It’s an easy and uplifting trend to adapt.
5. Our Graphic Designer Is on Vacation
Intentionally post a simple or poorly designed image with the caption “Our graphic designer is on vacation.” This humorous style stands out among polished content.
6. Unfortunately, I Do Love…
List your guilty pleasures or quirky habits. This trend works well because it feels relatable and authentic.
7. Today Would Have Been My Birthday If I Were Born Today
Film yourself treating yourself to something you enjoy. It’s a humorous and lighthearted self-care trend.
8. The Therapy
Use the caption “I can’t today, I have therapy,” and show what your personal version of therapy looks like, such as shopping, reading, or relaxing.
9. When We’re Having a Serious Conversation, But…
Film yourself pretending to be in a serious conversation while getting distracted by something fun or relatable. Speeding up the video can make it more engaging.
10. He/She/They Don’t Know It Yet, But…
Show a clip before something happens, like preparing to ask a colleague to join a social video. This format works well for behind-the-scenes content.
11. Who Are You Trying to Impress?
Show your hard work, then reveal someone meaningful, such as your younger self, parents, or pet. This trend is heartwarming and connects emotionally with viewers.
Quick Tips for Staying Ahead
- Use three to five relevant hashtags for each post. Niche and location-based tags perform best.
- Repost user-generated content that fits your brand voice.
- Adapt trends to your brand tone and values rather than chasing popularity.
Final Thoughts
Trends come and go, but authenticity always wins. Focus on content that fits your brand voice, leverages current formats, and resonates with your audience.
Stay consistent, keep experimenting, and you will continue to show up where your audience is looking—on TikTok, Instagram, Threads, or beyond.
Check out our September trends: