CNN is planning to integrate social media as a more substantial part of its website, Mediaweek reports.

In addition to new blogs being launched on food and health, regular columns from tech experts, such as Mashable CEO Pete Cashmore, Farhad Manjoo from Slate and Craigslist founder Craig Newmark, are set to be kicked off.

Already up and running are ‘This Just In’ and ‘Afganistan Crossroads’, the first featuring the most immediate information on breaking news whereas the latter offers an in-depth in look into the ongoing war and its impacts.

The channel is also looking to introduce a new feature, dubbed ‘Trending Now’, to help visitors find the most commented-on topics both on the site itself and on social networking sites.

The future plans also include a full integration of Facebook as a permanent part of the site. CNN has already utilised the social media giant successfully, for example in its coverage of President Obama’s inauguration.

Source: Mediaweek