tech
The vertical video takeover is here
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TL;DR
- Social media platforms initially had distinct identities but evolved by adopting features like Snapchat's Stories, which became a model for vertical, ephemeral content.
- TikTok revolutionized short-form video with its vertical-first format, algorithmic 'For You' page, and easy-to-use editing tools, leading to massive user engagement.
- Instagram (Reels) and YouTube (Shorts) quickly copied TikTok's successful format, prioritizing algorithmic content over social connections and turning these features into major revenue streams.
- Vertical video's success is driven by its engaging, endlessly scrollable nature and its suitability for advertising, making it highly lucrative for platforms and marketers.
- Other media companies like Spotify and Netflix have also launched vertical video features, attempting to capture user attention and advertising revenue.
- Despite some user desire for return to friend-focused content and a potential cultural shift towards less screen time, vertical video's dominance is expected to persist due to its established infrastructure and profitability.