Facebook Inc (FB) Announcing More Changes

Last week Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) made headlines with the announcement of changes to its privacy policy. In response to the firm’s apparently indiscriminate use of user information, six privacy groups alerted the Federal Trade Commission of the risks surrounding the new policy. And, just a week after the controversial topic was brought up, the social network has decided to delay the implementation of changes. The updated policy states that Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) can make use of name, profile picture, content, and information in connection with commercial, sponsored, or related content.

Facebook Inc. (FB)

Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) denies that the delay in policy implementation has anything to do with the open letter written by advocacy groups to the Federal Trade Commission. However, Jeff Chester, executive director of the Center for Digital Democracy, told the Los Angeles Times that, “Facebook is being forced to justify its latest grab of user data to D.C. regulators”. Either way, the new privacy policy has been put on ice for now.

Instagram ads

The other changes announced this week are related to Instagram and advertising. According to the company’s director of business operations, Emily White, the photo-sharing service will be selling ads by the end of this year. This means more business for Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB), as Instagram has become increasingly popular, growing around 50% since February. Also, unlike in many other cases, ads on Instagram are being designed to fit into corners, and extra attention is being paid to make the changes less irritable for users.

Unlike the changes planned for Instagram, Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB) informed on Tuesday that their ads would be getting a new format. The firm will be creating larger image sizes for the ads, making the visuals pop out more. The page posted link ads, for example, will now be 3.5 times larger than before, giving advertisers more space to display their product and brand. Despite what users might think about these changes, advertisers will be excited about the extra space, potentially translating into more income for Facebook Inc (NASDAQ:FB).

Disclosure: Pablo Erbar holds no position in any stocks mentioned

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