Meta has begun testing to implement a new functionality for advertising management on Instagram, called Ad Break, which introduces unskippable advertising breaks of between three and five seconds in the videos.
Some users have already had the opportunity to test this measure, aimed at expanding the presence of promotional content within the platform, showing some discontent at interrupting navigability on the social network.
In addition, This tool represents a twist in the way ads are presented to Instagram usersbecause with the current model where ads are integrated into the ‘feed’ in a more organic way.
The Ad Break functionality adds ads before playing videos, a strategy that is used on other digital platforms. These ads reportedly include a duration counter visible at the bottom and an information button that explains how this modality works.
The first reactions from users who have experimented with Ad Break have been varied. On different social networks and discussion forums, Some users have stated that these disruptive ads negatively affect the browsing experience on Instagram.
The non-stop nature of ads is seen by some users as an annoyance that interferes with smooth content consumption. This perception could influence the widespread acceptance of the tool among Instagram’s user base.
Although Meta has yet to officially announce a full rollout of Ad Break, initial testing and feedback so far suggests a mixed response from the community.
In addition to this option that is being tested, Meta announced that starting June 26, 2024, it will use data from its Instagram and Facebook users to train its generative artificial intelligence (AI).
This announcement has generated a great debate about privacy and data handling, and has led many Internet users to question whether there is a way to refuse to be part of this measure.
In a statement, Meta detailed that it will use content shared on its platforms, such as posts and photos with descriptions, to develop its AI models. In addition, Meta indicated that it may also process information from people who do not have a profile in its applications but who appear in other users’ publications.
The use of user data by large technology corporations is not new, but the magnitude and implications of these practices are continually being questioned.
Although Meta claims not to touch sensitive information transmitted through private conversations, the use of published photos or videos raises questions about possible violations of international data protection laws.
Various sectors from various parts of the world such as legislators and privacy advocatescall for stricter regulation on the use of personal data for technological purposes.
Given the controversy, Meta has indicated that there is an option on its social networks that allows users to reject the use of their data, However, this option is only available in Europe, but not in Latin America or other countries.
- Go to your personal profile from the mobile app.
- Choose the menu located in the upper right corner of the screen.
- Scroll down until you find the “Information” option and click on “Privacy Policy”.
- Select “Object to treatment” and then “oppose”.
A point that has generated controversy is that users must fill out a form in which they must specify and argue in detail their rejection of their data being used in the training of artificial intelligence models. This option does not mean that personal data will not instantly be used by Meta.
