Instagram No Longer A Photo Sharing App

“We’re no longer a photo sharing app”

Have you heard the news? Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, sent shockwaves through the social universe last week with this comment.

As part of an update shared to social media, Instagram announced four new experiences in the following areas:

• Creators: Instagrams first priority, helping creators monetise their efforts and earn a living online.

• Video: Instagram recognises the huge importance of video and its growth not just on its own platform but other social channels.

• Shopping: COVID accelerated the shift from offline to online shopping by years.

• Messaging: DMs has become a primary way in which people connect with their close friends when using the app.

Looking at video, in particular, Instagram’s research has shown that the main reason for the apps use is for entertainment. Instagram has noted they have serious competition from the likes of TikTok and YouTube.

Users over the next couple of months can expect to see recommendations of content in their feed from accounts they may not be following yet.

Expect to see a lot of experiments on how Instagram embrace video more - full screen, immersive, mobile-first video.

After years of smoke and mirrors, Instagram has also reassured users they will be more transparent about what they’re doing and why.

What does this mean for businesses?

Firstly, don’t panic - image-based posts aren’t being banished. If you think about Instagram’s development over the past few years, Instagram has been heading in this direction for some time since the launch of Stories.

Start to think about your business, your industry and your customers - what do they want to see? know?

This a great reminder to ensure you know your customer and your offering, if you can’t answer the above that’s where you need to start. Need help? Get in touch, for a Social Discovery or Marketing Strategy session, let us help you get to know your audience.