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A "Chronically Online" banner featuring a cozy bed setup with a laptop, notebook, tea cup, and journal, dated May 12 – May 19.

This Week in Marketing: Talk of the Timeline

Last Updated

May 19, 2025

Originally Published

May 19, 2025

Author

The Influence Agency

This week’s update proves that timelines never sleep. From unlockable Reels and AI-powered nostalgia to a squirrel-starring snack ad, the internet’s been busy. We’re rounding up the campaigns, platform updates, and creative swings that owned the feed—because if it’s trending, clever, or pretty genius, you’ll find it here.

🔓 Locked Reels? Yeah, That’s a Thing Now

Instagram just debuted its first unlockable Reels feature, with The Weeknd testing it for his new film Hurry Up Tomorrow. Creators can now hide content behind a code, and viewers must enter it to access exclusive drops.

👀 TikTok but Make it Netflix?

Netflix is testing a TikTok-style feed with show clips for easy swiping and watching. Plus, a new AI-powered search lets you type stuff like “something funny” to get recs you’ll actually like.

Two mobile screens showing a Netflix-style interface featuring vertical video previews of shows like Bridgerton and Emily in Paris.
Image Source: Netflix

📲 Meta Levels Up (Again)

Meta’s latest launch, the Edits app, just got even better with new filters, inspiration tools, and our personal favourite: beat markers for perfectly syncing music to your videos.

Instagram Creators post announcing Edits app updates, including beat markers, video effects, and an inspiration feed.
Image Source: Instagram Threads

💡 TikTok Made My Photo Move!!

TikTok’s new AI Alive feature lets you animate still images into short videos using smart effects and motion—all within stories. It can turn your basic picture into a scroll-stopping video moment.

💄 The Official Gloss of Nepo Babies

MAC’s latest #BornFamous campaign channels Y2K glam with nepo-baby icons like Amelia Gray, Zaya Wade, and Francesca Scorsese. Glossy lips, throwback fits, and paparazzi lights make Lipglass Air a nostalgic, star-studded campaign.

🐿️ No AI, Just Squirrels

Justin Poulsen shares the behind-the-scenes of KIND Snacks’ “Packed with Nuts” campaign, starring real squirrels with stuffed cheeks. Shot without AI, the ad reflects KIND’s focus on authenticity and real ingredients.

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