Iran Press/ Europe: Facebook and Instagram (Internet platforms outlawed in Russia since they are owned by Meta corporation deemed extremist by Russian authorities), as well as Twitter, were banned over a short period of time. TikTok temporarily suspended the publication of content from Russia, Rossiyskaya Gazeta writes.
While users simply moved to other platforms, content creators found themselves in a more difficult situation because a platform does mean an audience that takes years to attract and a set of tools to make and promote content.
Professional users are coming to realize how the market has changed, said hello blogger Director-General Tanya Ivanova. "TikTok failed to make a quick return, Instagram has been blocked, and YouTube is one step away from being banned. In fact, many could not imagine just two weeks ago that they would have to consider alternative platforms as they were sure that advertisers would remain on Instagram," she noted.
Two Russian-developed platforms, Rossgram and Now, were announced right after Instagram had been blocked. However, there are two flaws to the new projects, which include the lack of an audience and weaker advertising tools. There is also room for improvement on RuTube, the Russian alternative to YouTube, as no "processes for communication with content makers and users" have been established there yet, Director of the Internet Protection Society Mikhail Klimarev explained.
According to Ivanova, bloggers keep a close eye on the platforms where advertisers have returned and seek to pull their audiences there. Telegram and VKontakte look the most promising.
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