It seems unusual that Instagram would introduce a feature that is such a blatant rip-off of Snapchat’s main signifier (also with Snapchat being the most celebrated social media medium of the moment). As you post multiple images and videos, content is automatically assembled into a slideshow, which disappears after 24 hours and does not appear on your profile grid or in your photo feed. Instagram is also used by mostly the younger generation and the new feature will help Instagram to retain its growing user base.
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This sort of copying follows the usual style of Instagram’s parent company, Facebook – particularly when it comes to Snapchat.
The Facebook-owned social network launches Instagram Stories, a new feature that that lets retailers and other users post photos that disappear after 24 hours.
“With Instagram Stories, you don’t have to worry about overposting”.
Instagram is known for being a place to share moments you want to remember, and this update is just another step in that direction. Instagram has even tried Snapchat-like features in the past for news events, creating streams of user posts related to live events like the Super Bowl and the Oscars, mimicking Snapchat’s “Live Story” product. To view an Instagram Story posted by a friend, all one needs to do is tap on their profile photo. Users can tap back and forward to see the different Stories, and then swipe ahead to see another person’s Story. Although it is not possible to “like” or comment in public about a photo or video, users can send private comments using the Instagram Direct private message system. If your account is private, your story will be private.
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Instagram account settings allow users to dictate whether stories should be viewable only by followers, and opt to hide them from some. To upload a photo or video, swipe down on the screen and choose the one you want to upload.
