Social Media

September 1, 2023

The Internet Takes Some Time Off

It’s the worst time of the year to be online. Last week, I saw more posts than I could count citing a study that claims Aug. […]
August 30, 2023

Morgan Riddle Is the Most Famous Woman in Men’s Tennis

Morgan Riddle was being watched. Outside the grandstand, while she idled beneath the summer sun, a passer-by stopped, turned and pointed a phone at her, then […]
August 26, 2023

How a White Folding Chair Became a Symbol of Resistance

It figured prominently in viral footage of a brawl, where it was used as a blunt instrument. So why is the humble folding chair now turning […]
August 23, 2023

The Secrets of Debate Swag

Oh, the games campaigns play with political merch. They may surprise you. Whatever happens at the first Republican presidential primary debate on Aug. 23, whatever revelations […]
August 22, 2023

Can TikTok Revive the Dead?

#Gravetok influencers post videos of themselves visiting burial sites, cleaning headstones and following recipes inscribed on them. When Rosie Grant made ice cream to share with […]
August 20, 2023

Grown-Up Theater Kids Run the World

A Supreme Court justice. The governor of New Jersey. Senator Ted Cruz. A prominent MSNBC host. Practically half the tech world. What’s behind this moment of […]
August 18, 2023

Hawaii-Tok Wants Tourists to Stay Home

The right thing to do depends on whom you ask. TikTok’s algorithm shows you videos based on other videos you’ve interacted with. So this week, after […]
August 9, 2023

Watch Brands Borrow Some of Music’s Cool

Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille and Hublot are among the makers mining connections with performers for the social media boost and appeal to young consumers. In 2022, […]
August 8, 2023

On TikTok, Americans in Europe Complain That There’s No Drinking Water

Drinking water is impossible to come by Europe — or so goes a complaint on social media. Well-hydrated Europeans have responded with eye rolls from every […]
August 5, 2023

After Transitioning, Gabbi Tuft Pays a Visit to Smackdown

She was once a 250-pound gladiator in the World Wrestling Entertainment ring. Now she’s a TikTok star who’s building a new life. Almost until the end, […]