Social media has evolved in so many ways since its inception. The purpose of social media initially, was to connect with people, but now, it has gone far beyond that. Top platforms like Facebook, X (Formerly known as Twitter), and Instagram, contributed greatly to the evolution of social media.

Social media currently plays major roles for businesses, individuals and organizations. If you are looking to enhance your skills and knowledge, get meaningful opportunities, and generally increase your visibility as an individual, you can do that with the help of social media platforms.

Millions of businesses have experienced maximum growth due to the impact of social media marketing. They have been able to drive sales and connect with large numbers of potential customers globally

Telegram

Telegram is almost like WhatsApp, and it offers so many features. This app was created in 2013 and has since then garnered over 950 million active users. Telegram provides a high level of control over personal data and it comes with flexible features. Business owners will benefit a lot from the new marketing feature added to the app, that allows users to run ads on channels with over 1000 members.

Lemon8

Lemon8 was created in 2020 by the creators of TikTok but with a much different concept. The app supports social login for TikTok users. What this means is that you can sign up on Lemon8 with your TikTok credentials. The aim of using social login on Lemon8 is to save users from the stress of creating an account from scratch. You can learn more about social login online, for more insights on how it works.

Lemon8 is a unique social media app; it splits its contents into seven lifestyle tabs, and the aim of this is for users to easily explore their topic of interest. So rather than viewing random posts or content, users can view only what interests them. Lemon8 emphasises more photos than videos, and it allows longer captions. This gives room for detailed business/product descriptions for businesses or influencers.

Discord

Discord, like most social media apps, is a text chat, voice, and video app designed to make communication easier between friends and other communities. You can create groups or communities both large and small. Discord offers good marketing opportunities for business owners. Aside from advertising your business in groups, you can create your own space, a Discord server community. The goal is to create a community based on a topic that aligns with your brand. This will help you attract the attention of potential customers.

QQ

QQ is an instant messaging and social media platform created by Tencent, a Chinese tech company. If you are looking for a social media app that offers more than the usual instant messaging feature, QQ is a great option for you. The app was first launched as just a messaging app but has more features now, such as gaming, social networking, shopping, and entertainment. Business owners can also benefit from this app. QQ allows the creation of business pages where businesses can share promotional content and connect with customers easily.

Thread

Thread is one of the newest social media apps. It was launched in July 2023 and has since then experienced significant growth. Thread, like Lemon8, supports social login. Users with Instagram accounts can sign up with their existing credentials on Thread. Most of the users on Thread are from Instagram due to the integration of the two apps. Users can create content and engage their followers with ease on Thread. Business owners can gain potential customers by sharing engaging posts.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is different from most social media apps. Rather than being in a general space, users exist only in groups. Nextdoor is, so far, available in 11 countries. Signing up for the app requires a correct name and address. The aim of this is to connect you with people in communities that align with your location and interest. Nextdoor is one of the best social media apps for brands/businesses. Brands can easily connect with potential clients or customers from communities

Conclusion

Using Popular social media apps is highly recommended, but you also need to widen your online presence by having a variety of options especially if you own a business. Using alternative social media platforms also serves as a backup in case something goes wrong with your other business pages. While the top social media apps are reliable, backups are necessary. All the alternative social media apps listed in this article are as efficient as the popular apps and worth giving a trial.

Fake Mobile Gaming Adverts

How often have you been on YouTube and been shown an add for an interesting looking mobile puzzle game? Or been shown a mobile game featuring epic fantasy heroes and engaging combat? And how often have you gone to download the game only to find that it is nothing like the product you saw in the advert?

This is sadly becoming all too common these days. There are hundreds upon hundreds of fake mobile gaming adverts currently plaguing the internet. The vast majority of these adverts are made by scam companies operating in countries where they don’t have to adhere to western advertising regulations. They lure you in with the promise of a fun game. And make their money off the adverts the app forces you to watch repeatedly.

This has become a huge issue for consumers and for mobile game developers too. People are starting to lose faith in the medium. The real games are being drowned out by the fakes. So we are here to provide you with a list of some of the most engaging mobile games that are exactly what the adverts promise!

League Of Legends: Wild Rift

League Of Legends, or LoL as it is known in the gaming world, is one of the most popular titles on the planet. Too often we have seen fake mobile gaming companies use assets from LoL to sell their game. But the good news is that there is a mobile friendly version of LoL.

Wild Rift plays exactly like a normal game of LoL but it has been modified to make the games shorter. With a smaller map and decreased spawn times. The game sees 2 teams of 5 trying to destroy the opposing team’s base while defending their own. Waves of minions periodically spawn and head down three different lanes. Players can earn gold and xp by killing minions and other players.

Matches generally last up to 20 / 25 minutes. Making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for a quick and engaging title to sink their teeth into.

Clash Of Clans

Clash Of Clans has been one of the most popular mobile games for a while now. It has an average of 150 million monthly players. And has spawned a number of spin-off titles like Clash Quest and Clash Heroes.

The primary focus of the game is building your own mini kingdom. Constructing defenses and resource producing buildings so that you can purchase troops for your army. Players can attack the bases of other players to gain rewards. But you also have to ensure your base is strong enough to survive attacks from other plays.

Clash Of Clans is free-to-play, but does feature microtransactions. The game allows players to buy speed boosts and additional currency. Many people have started selling and purchasing Clash of Clans accounts. Buying an account is the best way to get a leg up in the game. And it will allow you to join in the clan based war system as well.

Pokémon GO

Pokémon is one of the most recognizable and well loved franchises on the planet. And it is all too common for fake mobile gaming companies to steal assets from Pokémon to lure in unsuspecting gamers. There are a huge range of mobile Pokémon games to choose from. But Pokémon GO is undoubtedly the best.

It is an augmented reality game that uses the real world as its setting. Players will find new Pokémon to catch as they walk around. Evolving your Pokémon is done by meeting a specific step goal over a certain period of time.

Different locations on the map are marked as Gyms and Pokéstops. Players can compete to secure the Gym for their faction. While the Pokéstops provide them with different items. The game features all the hallmarks of a normal Pokémon. The ability to trade with other players, carry out private battles, and hatch new Pokémon from eggs.

Angry Birds

There are countless fake adverts showing a mobile game that is essentially Angry Birds with a different skin. And 9 times out of 10 the game you download is nothing like the trailers. Save yourself the hassle and just download Angry Birds instead.

This was one of the mobile games that changed the entire industry. With an extremely simple gameplay loop that is highly addictive, Angry Birds is the perfect time killer. On the surface it seems like a simple game about launching birds at a fortress full of pigs. But the game requires more logical thinking and planning than you might expect at first glance.

Each of the birds in the games have their own unique ability. Like birds that explode or ones that can break through certain materials. Angry Birds 2 allowed players to use any bird they want with a deck system. Allowing for a greater degree of strategy.

Are you one of those people who picks up a new hobby which you throw yourself into with a passionate fervor, only to get bored of it after a couple of months and seek out something new? Well the good news is you aren’t alone in that. I too have hundreds of half finished hobby projects sitting around my home.

But don’t be dismayed. The beautiful thing about hobbies is that there is no right or wrong way to do them! Shifting between hobbies can be extremely fulfilling and can also teach you a lot of valuable life skills along the way. If you’re struggling to find a new hobby to occupy your time with, don’t worry. I have compiled this list of 7 hobbies worth trying!

1. Painting

People often assume that, to be a painter, you need to be extremely talented. That the aim is to create grand works of art that can be hung in galleries around the world. But painting for the sake of creative expression alone is an extremely rewarding hobby. And you don’t need to have any prior experience to create amazing works of art.

I highly recommend starting with some custom paint by numbers kits. These will allow you to create the painting you want with an easy guide. No worrying about getting the colors wrong or messing up the proportions. And it will help you gradually improve your technique until you can paint freehand.

2. Photography

People often forget that photography can be a hobby. Because our smart phones allow us to capture every single moment of our lives with ease. But there is something magical about taking more purposeful photos.

I recommend buying a polaroid camera or a few disposable ones. Then go out exploring, alone or with friends, and capture the moments and scenes that call to you. Having the physical photos in your hands is an extremely rewarding experience. And it is a great way to get you to observe the world around you with a more creative eye.

3. Creative Writing

Writing often falls into the same pitfalls as painting. If you aren’t writing with the goal of getting something published, what’s the point? But writing just for the fun of it can be, not only extremely fun, but very therapeutic too. It allows our brain to turn our complex, hidden thoughts into works of art.

A great way to get started with creative writing is with one of those ‘Prompt a day’ writing books. They will provide you with a huge array of interesting writing challenges. And, with no right or wrong answers, you can be free to let your imagination run as wild as you like!

4. Flow Toys

Have you ever been to a festival or a carnival and seen those people spinning fire swords or twirling flags around in mesmerizing patterns. This is called flowing. Flow toys, like contact staffs, poi, hula hoops, contact juggling balls, and flags are a great hobby to try out if you’re someone who likes an active challenge.

I recommend watching some YouTube tutorials first to find the flow toy that most calls to you. Some are easier to learn than others. But, with enough practice and dedication, you can soon become a flow master!

5. Gaming

The old reliable of the hobby world. Video gaming is one of the most popular pastimes on the planet for a reason. There are so many amazing games out there that, whatever your tastes, there is something for you.

Want something relaxed and cute? Animal crossing is for you. Want something puzzling? Professor Layton. Want to switch off your brain and fight hordes of aliens? Space Marine 2. And if you’re not looking to spend a lot of money there are hundreds of free mobile games that are just as engaging as the big triple-A titles.

6. Learning Cardistry

Have you ever seen a magician or professional poker player do some fancy tricks with a deck of cards and wished you could do that? Well it isn’t actually as difficult as you might think. Cardistry, the art of creative shuffling and deck cutting, is an amazing skill that will always impress at parties.

There are thousands of useful tutorials online to help you get started. It will take a while to get it right. So don’t be discouraged. Practice makes perfect. Just make sure you invest in some good playing cards. Bicycle cards are the go-to for cardistry.

7. Baking

One of my favorite hobbies. Simply because you get to eat the things you create! Baking is one of the easiest hobbies to get into. With minimal set up and a very low learning curve. Baking is more of a science than cooking. So, as long as you follow the recipes closely, it is difficult to get it wrong.

1. Visit Seoul

There are no two ways about it, if you visit South Korea you have to spend a few days in Seoul. Whether you want to spend money or time in great places you will find South Korea’s capital as many great places to visit. One such place of course is the very well-known district of Gangnam which houses many great stores and some of the best entertainment lounges. Whether you want to experience the great Korean full salon or the prevalent activity of going to singing lounges, this will make your time in South Korea perfect especially if you want to live out the modern Korean culture.

2. Lotte World

Lotte World is in Seoul but it deserves its slot as a great experience that can up a full day of your trip. Lotte World is an amusement park essentially the Disney World of South Korea. The comparison does go further as many people have accused it of not only ripping off the iconic mouse mascot of the Disney company but also the very beloved Indiana Jones ride. The fact remains that despite these similarities Lotte World made a name for itself by being one of the best amusement parks in all of Asia and even the world.

3. The DMZ

This place is generally better known as the Demilitarized Zone. While it does sound scary on paper the reality is that it rarely sees action and plenty of guided tours are offered around the DMZ. You might be wondering why it even is on this list, the reality, of course, is that is it a truly fascinating part of Korean history as well as the current state of Korea. If you want to get a very interesting look at the South Korean military operations while getting a good history lesson on the causes of the rift between South and North Korea.

4. Hwaseong Fortress

This fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was originally built during the 18th century. The history of the fortress is truly incredible as it exists as the final resting place of the father of King Jeongo. It is around 20 miles away from Seoul and includes the King’s palace as well as a large part of the city of Suwon. You can explore the great township or even walk the walls that span over 3 miles. While it has been subject to modern work most of the fortress remains an 18th-century architectural marvel.

5. Enjoy Korean food

This is one of the best things to do in South Korea. You will see that not only does Seoul and South Korea at large offer great opportunities to try out luxurious restaurants but also some of the most delicious street food you can have. Seoul has some especially great markets that can offer amazing food for very low prices if you walk out of the tourist areas. So don’t be afraid to go out of your way to try out any from Korean BBQ to anything you can’t even name. Korean food is as spicy and diverse as Korean culture can be.

6. Go out dancing

If you know anything about South Korea is that one of its biggest cultural exports is its music. If you want to truly experience the current cultural wave of Korea, you need to get yourself out there and experience the wild nights of K-POP-fuelled dance clubs of Seoul. This is the best way to experience the K-POP phenomenon short of being able to get tickets to the shows of one of the current famous acts taking the world by storm. It can be pretty hard to keep up with the surge of new artists on the Korean scene though. So, whether you love boy bands or girl bands like BlackPink you will see that these stars are like royalty in the cultural movement of Korea.

7. The national sport

While many people often think that Baseball is as American as apple pie, many forget that it is the national sport of not only Korea but also Japan. So, if you want to experience the excitement and triumphs of the Korean sports culture you should try to choose a team to cheer for and get some tickets to one of the many sold-out stadium games. If you come from America, you might be surprised to see that Korean sports culture is pretty similar to America’s where beer is flowing and there are plenty of delicious snacks to be had while you watch your theme play to win.

If I had to pick one word that defines our current generation it would be Influencer. You will have undoubtedly seen this word all over the place. The word itself isn’t a new one. History has seen its fair share of influential people who are worthy of the title. But these days the term has taken on a new meaning.

The rise of social media has shifted the idea of what an influencer is. Previously the title would be reserved for someone of great renown who shifted the social norms of society in a huge way. And, to a degree, modern influencers still do set trends and change people’s views. But on a much smaller scale. A modern influencer is simply someone who has obtained a considerable following on social media.

Anyone can become an influencer these days. Our screens are constantly filled with pictures and videos of different influencers. And it would be easy to think that they live idyllic lives. But, as we know, social media only ever provides a glimpse into someone else’s lives. So what is happening behind the screen that influencers don’t show you?

The Business Of Being An Influencer

Being an influencer has become more of a career than a social position. And, like any career, it requires a lot of hard work. It is all too easy to forget that, behind every video and picture, is a lot of planning and technical editing going on.

Influencers have to work hard to create content that will keep their audience engaged while also bringing in new followers. For every video you see an influencer post you can be sure that 80% of the work they put into it happened behind the scenes.

Influencers make a lot of their money through sponsorship deals. Companies pay them to feature their products in their content. But acquiring these deals takes a lot of networking and negotiation. Which is why most influencers will use an agency.

Influencer Marketing

Influencer agencies also help content creators with their marketing. You might be surprised to hear that influencers need to do marketing. But, like any business, they depend on their ability to reach a wider audience and bring in new followers.

Agencies like upvote.shop are a prime example of the work influencers have done behind the scenes. Alongside promoting their pages, this agency can also directly boost their follower count on a number of different platforms. The advantage of this is that it keeps their page showing up in the ‘For You’ section of different social media sites.

The Real Influencer

As we said earlier on, a lot of what we see on social media is fake. And this is vitally important to remember. About 90% of the content you see online has been carefully curated and edited to give off a certain impression. Influencers make their money off brand deals. And brands want their products to be associated with amazing people.

So the main thing influencers often don’t show you is their true self. And to a degree this is how it should be. You may have heard of the term parasocial relationships. This is a one-sided relationship where one person puts in all of the emotional investment. Meanwhile the other party is unaware of their existence.

This is the relationship that influencers have with 90% of their followers. They will never meet or interact with them in any meaningful way. Unfortunately some people become too obsessed with an influencer they like. And this can lead to dangerous behaviors such as stalking.

This isn’t a new occurrence by any means. As long as celebrities have existed we have seen the dangers of parasocial relationships. But the digital age has made it all too easy for people to dig up information about influencers. Which is why a lot of influencers make the conscious choice to hide their real selves from the camera.

The Cost

We are currently living in the golden age of technology. Our smartphones are more powerful than the computers used to send man to the Moon. Virtual reality is no longer just for the realms of science fiction. And we have access to the entire wealth of human knowledge from the comfort of our bedrooms thanks to the internet.

As technology advances so too does the quality of content being produced by influencers. A lot of influencers produce most of their content with their phones. But, to produce real high quality content, they require a lot of additional resources. Lights. Editing software. Accessories. A production team.

In short, it isn’t a cheap endeavor for them at all. And this is one of the main reasons why a lot of new influencers don’t succeed. To make it as an influencer you have to invest, not only a lot of time, but money as well.

Now more than ever it has become much easier to watch movies at will. Thanks to streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix we have not only seen a lot of older movies find their way to these platforms but also these platforms have put in the money to create new franchises and new movies. This was of course the delight of many people but there has been a lot of discourse online about the use of special effects and the lack of practical effects. When discussing practical effects many people talk about blood squibs for example. Still, one of the bigger parts of special effects that have changed a lot over the past decade is the amount of green cream used instead of filming on location or creating sets. While many people say that creating sets is too much trouble or too expensive many of them aren’t aware of what goes into building those sets. So, let’s take a deeper look at what goes into the business of building film sets and creating the movie magic that often goes unseen behind the scenes.

For many people, it might seem silly to have to build a set to film inside of a house or inside of an apartment. The reality though is that while it may be adequate for smaller-budget films to film inside buildings often, it is easier for bigger-budget films to create an old apartment set from scratch since it allows you to light and film from every angle you wish. This is why often you might not even realize that your favorite show or your favorite movie is not filmed on location. This is why when they create sets, they often will deal with architects as well as set designers to be able to fully recreate to scale the interior of a building they’ve chosen to be the physical representation of the location they will be in. This is often done so that you can have the ideal space without having to displace the people who are living or working there. If you ever need to film outside the building, you can simply put some slight window dressing on the building itself to make it appear as it should for the show or movie and have your location.

When we talk about said building itself It’s important to understand from this that we are talking about actual construction. There is a lot of work from specialists like carpenters who are involved in the actual physical building of these sets. While most sets are built on studio lots and inside Many set pieces become part of on-location filming. This is why sometimes you will see streets being closed or buildings being used for filming have things built around them as additional set dressing. Adding to this you might even see a partial green screen added especially for period movies where studios have to account for the skyline and backdrops. This mix of set building and green screen has become pretty common both on location and in the studio for most films going from Avengers to The Irishman.

One of the main reasons why studios have moved away from doing fully practical sets is not only because of the amount of money costs to hire all these specialized workers to build those. There is also the reality that many production companies simply don’t want to put the money into sets that they will either have to store or destroy after the filming is over. It is not only a question of set building costs but also of self storage building costs to be able to house all the props and the set pieces they might want to keep. This is an issue not only because of cost but also because of land since many of the big studios find themselves in major cities where it is extremely difficult to find new viable land to build studio lots on. If you take this into account, it might become a lot easier to understand the popularity of things like Disney’s volume projected set and the general use of VFX to be able to save some of the costs that could go into building physical sets.