Table of Contents
If you’re looking to start-up a new social media app or researching on what all social media platforms should have, then there are a few key features that you should consider. In order to provide a good user experience, social media apps should have the following:
User Profile
Every social media platform should have a way for users to create their own profiles, which should include a profile picture, bio, and other information that they want to share with others. Here, the user can put their information that is relevant to what they would like to share or talk about depending on what the app is about. With a profile, you’re giving transparacy through the app.
News Feed
A news feed is the central feature of a social media platform where users can see updates and content from the people they follow. This keeps the user informed and up-to-date with relevant news they are interested in. It’s important to have this feature as it’s a way to explore and find new people.
Communication Tool
That then leads us to the next point which is having a built-in communication tool. For example messaging, comments, and chat features that allow users to interact with one another. Every major social media app such as Instagam, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok hvae this and it’s a perfect way to share content or share thoughts with one another.
Privacy and Security Features
Social media platforms must take measures to protect user data and privacy, including features like two-factor authentication, data encryption, and robust privacy settings. Protecting people’s data and coming up with terms and conditions for your app is time consuming but shows you have thought about the user as well as protected the app itself so there are no problems that arise in the future or any privacy/security scandals.
Search Functionality
Search functionality is important for users to find content and other users that interest them. By giving a user the ability to search for someone new will allow them to reach a new audience or connect with them using the communication tool we previously mentioned is a key feature.
Content Creation Tools
Social media platforms should offer a variety of content creation tools to enable users to express themselves creatively, such as text posts, photos, videos, and live streaming. Again, depending on the outlet you are producing and what it is, this is an important factor. Everyone loves to create or atleast show what they are upto so be creative with what you’re allowing the user to play around with – keep this in mind.
Analytics
Social media platforms should provide users with analytics tools to track their engagement and reach. Influencers and content creators need an outlet or a feature that will be able to tell them if they’re doing well especially if they’re working with a company or brand. Analytics are brilliant to know who the user is reaching, in what areas and how many people are visiting their profile.
Customisation
Customisation options allow users to personalize their experience and make their profiles and feeds unique. The more feautres and tools you give the user, the more they can be artistic and creative. Research on what unique personalisation tools you can offer your users to keep the social media platform engaging.
Community Guidelines
Social media platforms must enforce community guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all users. In relation to the terms and conditions mention above, the community guidelines give strict policies for the user to follow or remember when posting. It’s good to think about the guidelines before and to check them over after the app has been produced to ensure you have covered everything.
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