Social media is kicking off 2026 with major changes, and it’s worth paying attention now if you don’t want to fall behind this year. There are five critical platform updates every business owner and marketer needs to understand at the start of the year, and Emma is outlining each of them in this episode. From Instagram’s new five-hashtag limit to Meta testing potential charges for link posts, this episode highlights how platforms are continuing to prioritize in-app engagement, discovery, and shopping over outbound traffic. Instagram is also experimenting with a new “Your Algorithm” feature, which will now make engagement and reach matter far more than follower count and change how brands should evaluate success. You’ll also learn about Instagram’s highly anticipated public story resharing update, which unlocks new organic amplification opportunities for creators and brands alike. And finally, Emma unpacks Pinterest’s new partnership with Walmart, a move that reinforces why in-app shopping isn’t the future, it’s already here. If you want to start 2026 informed, prepared, and ahead of the algorithm, don’t miss this one.
Listen in as Emma explains:
- How Instagram’s five-hashtag limit impacts reach, targeting, and content discovery
- What to do if Meta starts to restrict or charge for link posts
- Why Pinterest and Walmart’s partnership signals the future of in-app shopping
And much, much more!
How Instagram’s Five-Hashtag Limit Impacts Reach, Targeting, and Content Discovery
Instagram’s new five-hashtag limit reflects a much larger shift in how content is discovered on the platform. Rather than relying on high-volume hashtag strategies, Instagram is now prioritizing context, caption relevance, and audience behavior signals. While hashtags still matter, success now comes from being more intentional and niche with your selections. By narrowing your hashtag strategy, you can actually improve reach and discovery by attracting a more qualified audience, making fewer hashtags an opportunity for better performance, not a limitation.
What to Do If Meta Starts to Restrict or Charge for Link Posts
Meta has been testing the idea of limiting or charging for link-heavy posts, and it’s a clear signal that the platform wants users to stay in-app. This is a sign that it’s time to stop treating Facebook and Instagram as primary traffic drivers and instead focus on visibility, engagement, and native commerce tools. Emma recommends proactively building out features like Meta Shops and leveraging in-platform resources rather than relying on external links. And remember: your social media accounts are on borrowed land. Success depends on adapting quickly to platform priorities.
Why Pinterest and Walmart’s Partnership Signals the Future of In-App Shopping
Pinterest’s partnership with Walmart is one of the strongest indicators yet that in-app shopping is no longer emerging, it’s fully here. This collaboration turns inspiration into action by allowing users to shop directly from recipe pins without leaving the platform. It also reinforces a larger trend across social media where discovery and purchasing are becoming increasingly integrated. Now is the time for brands, especially product-based businesses, to pay close attention to retailers and platforms investing in frictionless shopping experiences, as these partnerships will shape the future of digital commerce.
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