Author: Shweta Srivastava

Key Highlights

• Google brings Auto Dark Mode to iOS, automatically switching websites to dark mode
• Users activate it by enabling dark mode on their device
• Android users can expect this feature soon

Google is constantly striving to enhance user experience, and its latest offering for iPhone users is no exception – Auto Dark Mode. This new feature aims to seamlessly switch websites accessed through the Google app to dark mode automatically. Let’s delve into what this feature is all about and how it works. Also Read | Google Sheets Tips And Tricks: How To Add ChatGPT Extension To Google Sheets

Understanding Auto Dark Mode

Auto Dark Mode, as the name suggests, ensures that websites accessed via the Google app on iOS devices are displayed in dark mode, aligning with the app’s dark theme. This feature is part of Google’s Search Labs experiments and is currently exclusive to iOS users.

Activating Auto Dark Mode

To experience Auto Dark Mode, users need to enable dark mode on their iOS device. Once activated, all websites visited through the Google app will adopt the dark theme automatically. Users can toggle this feature on or off by tapping the breaker icon located in the top-left corner of the Google app interface.

Customizing Auto Dark Mode

For users who prefer not to use Auto Dark Mode for specific websites, Google provides an easy solution. By clicking on the new sun icon displayed in the address bar, users can revert to the original theme of the website, thus disabling Auto Dark Mode for that particular site.

Limitations and Expectations

It’s important to note that Auto Dark Mode does not apply to websites that already offer a native dark theme. Additionally, Google advises users that the quality of the conversion to dark mode may vary. While currently available only on the iOS Google app for iPhones, this feature is expected to roll out to Android devices in the future.

Upcoming Google Updates

Apart from Auto Dark Mode, Google is also focusing on enhancing Google Lens’ capabilities for image searches. An upcoming update will allow users to provide additional context for image searches more efficiently. Instead of pressing the shutter button and then tapping the voice search icon, users can simply hold down the shutter button to record their voice and provide context simultaneously, streamlining the search process.

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Conclusion

Auto Dark Mode is a significant addition to Google’s efforts to improve user experience on iOS devices. By seamlessly integrating dark mode across websites accessed through the Google app, users can enjoy a consistent browsing experience. With further updates in the pipeline, such as improvements to Google Lens, Google continues to innovate and enhance its services for users worldwide.

Key Highlights

• Instagram is testing unskippable ads called “ad breaks” to benefit advertisers
• Users are unhappy, finding the ads disruptive to their experience
• The wider rollout of these ads depends on test results and user feedback

Instagram is reportedly testing unskippable ads on its platform, sparking mixed reactions among users. Recently, a number of users took to social media to express their surprise and frustration after encountering these new ads. Unlike the usual ads that users can scroll past, these ads, called “ad breaks,” last for 5 to 10 seconds and cannot be skipped. Also Read | Earth-Friendly Handles: 100+ Instagram Username Ideas For Environmental Sustainability

Confirmation From Instagram

A Reddit post initially brought attention to these unskippable ads, showing them labelled as “ad breaks.” Following this, more users reported similar experiences. According to TechCrunch, Instagram has confirmed the testing of these ads. A Meta spokesperson stated, “We’re always testing formats that can drive value for advertisers.” However, the spokesperson also emphasized that this testing phase is meant to assess performance and user sentiment. If the company decides to implement these ads more widely, they will provide updates.

User Reactions

Reactions from users have been largely negative. Many users find the unskippable ads disruptive to their browsing experience. A user on X (formerly known as Twitter), @TheDanLevy, shared details and called the move “bonkers.” The screenshot he posted showed an info icon next to the “ad breaks” label, which opens a bottom sheet explaining, “Ad breaks are a new way of seeing ads on Instagram. Sometimes you may need to view an ad before you keep browsing.”

Some users have even resorted to closing and restarting the app to avoid these ads. One frustrated Reddit user remarked, “I hope they know people will leave.” This sentiment was echoed by many others who feel that the introduction of unskippable ads could drive users away from the platform.

What This Means For Advertisers

For advertisers, this new format could potentially offer greater value. Unskippable ads ensure that users watch the entire ad, which could lead to higher engagement and better returns on ad spend. The Meta spokesperson highlighted that the goal of this test is to find formats that can benefit advertisers.

The Future Of Ad Breaks

As of now, it remains uncertain whether Instagram will roll out these unskippable ads more broadly. The company is closely monitoring user feedback and the overall performance of the ads during this testing phase. If they decide to implement these ads across the platform, they will provide further updates.

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Conclusion

Instagram’s testing of unskippable “ad breaks” has generated significant user backlash. While these ads may drive better value for advertisers, many users are unhappy with the disruption to their browsing experience. The outcome of this test will depend on how users and advertisers respond in the coming weeks. For now, Instagram continues to evaluate the potential of these ads to ensure they meet the needs of both users and advertisers.

Key Highlights

• X now permits sharing consensual adult content with proper labeling
• Users must add content warnings to adult material; X will enforce this if not followed
• No adult content in profile photos/banners, and under-18 users can’t view it

The internet hosts a wide variety of content, including adult material. It’s not surprising that social media platforms are beginning to embrace adult content, often referred to as Not Safe For Work (NSFW) content. The latest platform to allow such content is X, formerly known as Twitter. Also Read | Best Instagram Features That Are Worth Trying

New Policy Introduction

Elon Musk-owned X has recently announced that it will permit the creation and distribution of adult content on its platform. The company has introduced specific Adult Content and Violent Content policies to clarify what can and cannot be shared on X. This move aligns with X’s belief in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality.

What is Allowed?

According to X’s adult content policy, users are permitted to share and distribute “consensually produced adult nudity or sexual behavior.” However, this content must be properly labeled and should not be prominently displayed. In a support page, X stated, “You may share consensually produced and distributed adult nudity or sexual behavior, provided it’s properly labeled and not prominently displayed.”

X believes that sexual expression, whether visual or written, is a legitimate form of artistic expression. The platform supports adults’ right to create, share, and consume consensually produced material related to sexual themes.

Important Warnings

While X allows users to share adult content, there are specific guidelines that must be followed. Content needs to be appropriately labeled. Users are asked to adjust their media settings so that all images and videos are placed behind a content warning. This warning must be accepted before the media can be viewed. Users can also add a one-time content warning on individual posts.

X has warned that if users fail to mark their posts properly, the platform will adjust the account settings accordingly. This ensures that content warnings are in place to protect viewers from unexpectedly encountering adult content.

Restrictions

Despite allowing adult content, X has set some boundaries. Adult content is not allowed in highly visible places such as profile photos or banners. Additionally, users who are under 18 years of age or who do not include a birth date on their profile cannot click to view content marked as ‘Adult Content’ on the platform.

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Conclusion

X’s new policy on adult content reflects a shift towards a more open and expressive platform, while still maintaining boundaries to ensure content is shared responsibly. By implementing these guidelines, X aims to provide a balanced approach that respects both content creators and viewers.