Instagram has started testing a new app called “Instants”.
Modern.az reports that “TechCrunch” platform has spread information about this. The company has officially confirmed this information. Currently, the app is only available to users in Spain and Italy.
“Instants” allows users to share disappearing photos in a simple and fast way. These photos can only be viewed once and remain active for a maximum of 24 hours. The main difference of the app is that there are no editing options here. The user can only take pictures with the app's camera, it is not possible to upload pictures from the gallery. Only text can be added when sharing, but filters and other editing tools are not available.
The new app focuses more on sharing “real moments”. That is, spontaneous and natural images are in the foreground, not ideal, filtered and planned content as in classic Instagram. With this approach, “Instants” approaches the strategy of platforms such as Snapchat, BeReal and Locket. It should be noted that Instagram was previously testing this function within the application in some regions. Now the company is also testing it as a separate application. Users will be able to use “Instants” shares both in the standard Instagram app and through a separate app.
Shares via “Instants” are only shared with mutual followers or the “Close Friends” list. These lists work in full sync with Instagram. Meta states that the goal is to create a less stressful, more comfortable communication opportunity for users. Considering that Instagram has become a more “official” platform with ads and influencer content in recent years, this step can be considered an attempt to return to the platform's initial “sharing among friends” philosophy.
