Google experiment surfaces Instagram, TikTok videos in Search

Source: type_SEO / Twitter

Google isn't new to indexing videos on its Search platform. But the focus was mostly on desktop-oriented video sites like its own YouTube. Now, the search giant is shifting the focus to the mobile, social media space. Google is experimenting with a new search feature that highlights Instagram and TikTok in a "Short Videos" carousel. It only works for specific terms and shows easy-to-tap thumbnails for relevant videos.

The test is still in its pilot stage, and it works on either your browser or the Google Search app on Android and iOS. Google didn't say if or when it will introduce the carousel to more searches and users. It's a sensible move from the company because if you can find the video you're looking for right from the browser, you're more likely to stay on Google's pages and consequently generate ad money. It also helps save time because it makes it easier to surface videos you might miss on those platforms.

Source: Engadget

TikTok is reportedly experimenting with three-minute videos

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TikTok might be experimenting with longer videos. Social media consultant Matt Navarra shared on Twitter a screenshot of an update giving him the option to record videos up to three minutes in length.

Right now, TikTok allows its users to record up to a minute in length, which has proven successful for the social network. 

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Oracle reportedly in talks to acquire TikTok's operations in Canada, US, Australia, New Zealand

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It looks like Microsoft isn't the only company looking to acquire TikTok from Chinese company ByteDance. New reports claim Oracle is holding preliminary talks with ByteDance to acquire its operations in Canada, the US, Australia, and New Zealand. The company is reportedly working with US venture capital firms General Atlantic and Sequoia Capital, which already have a stake in TikTok. TikTok is facing a ban in the US after the country's lawmakers accused it of being a threat to national security. 

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Reports claim TikTok might soon sue White House over ban

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TikTok might be taking legal action against the White House over the ban of its service, and it might do it soon. According to an NPR source, the company plans to file a lawsuit against the Trump administration as early as August 11, contending the executive order to ban "transactions" with TikTok's parent company ByteDance unconstitutional. TikTok argues it violated its due process right to respond, and that the national security rationale used for justifying the order is "pure speculation and conjecture."

According to the unnamed source, the White House didn't have investigators contact the company ahead of an enforcement action, as is the standard process with companies. And so, TikTok's team reportedly believes it's a breach of procedure. The social media company hasn't commented yet on the possibility of an impending lawsuit. Still, it has acknowledged beliefs that the order was issued "without any due process" and "no substantiation" regarding the security allegations.

Source: Engadget