242. January 2026 Marketing Updates: Instagram's Hashtag Limit, Meta's Link Restrictions & Pinterest x Walmart

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!   Connect with Ninety Five Media: Check out our website: ninetyfivemedia.co  Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/ninety.five.media     Grow your brand's social media presence with us:  Tell us about your business goals and explore how our social media management services can help you reach them! ninetyfivemedia.co/stop-scrolling-start-scaling-inquiry