Why I Think Instagram Stories Will Succeed
The Internet went into a frenzy last week when Instagram boldly introduced Stories — a new Snapchat-like feature that allows users to share content without adding to their profile. Some question the longevity of this new feature and even argue that it distracts from the Instagram experience users have grown to love. Despite criticisms over its similarities to Snapchat, or lack thereof, this is why I think Instagram Stories will succeed:
Source: Instagram
It’s Already a Full House
Whether it’s a couple dozen from your personal network or thousands of online admirers, Instagram users generally have a decent following. Despite some very cool features integrated into the Snapchat Add Friends flow (such as Add by Snapcode and Add Nearby) it can be difficult for users to grow their audience or go viral. Users are forced to either have a personal connection or cross-promote on other platforms…and no one likes a repeat offender of the shameless plug. Instagram, however, makes it much easier to discover and engage with new content creators with a dedicated Search and Explore tabs, tagging capabilities, and public user profiles. Currently, Snapchat’s Discover feature only supports branded content.
Source: @mplatco
U.Y.O.C. — Upload Your Own Content
Both Instagram Stories and Snapchat allow users to upload content recorded outside of the app, although in different ways. Snapchat users can inconspicuously upload photos and videos from their Memories within 24 hours. However, Memories created greater than 24 hours ago or content from a user’s Camera Roll are displayed with a large white border and timestamp, further emphasizing the in the moment quality of Snapchat. On the other hand, Instagram Stories allows users to upload any photo or video taken in the past 24 hours from the Camera Roll without any disclosure of when exactly it was created. The time restriction on both apps aims to keep content fresh and relevant, but Instagram’s approach comes with more flexibility for users to get creative with other apps and without any tacky, imposed changes to the content.
Better Image Quality
Let’s be honest, the image quality on Snapchat’s in-app camera leaves much to be desired. No one enjoys being left with mediocre versions of their favorite memories. The quality of Instagram’s in-app camera, however, appears to be more on par with the iOS Camera app for those who desire to repurpose their content.
It Isn’t Personal
Despite the aforementioned qualities, some still dismiss the appeal of Instagram Stories because they perceive Snapchat as more personal. But that’s just it — Instagram isn’t about being personal. It has always been about broadcasting what matters to you with anyone who cares to take interest. I see Stories as Instagram’s way of being able to service those moments that happen in the between the “grams” that are still worth sharing even if they don’t match your “Instagram aesthetic.”
There’s Still Room for Snapchat!
While Snapchat Stories have become a staple part of the user experience, they are not at the core of the Snapchat’s original functionality and brand that attracted users from the beginning — the ability to personally send ephemeral content to friends. (They just want to feel special!) Instagram Direct mimics this concept but lacks the concept of time sensitivity. Additionally, users and brands have grown to love Snapchat for its innovative Lenses, creative Geofilters, and Live Stories, amongst other features, which gives them a unique reason to still gravitate towards the platform. Although it may simply be a matter of time before Instagram and other platforms roll out more competitive features, Snapchat is still well ahead of the game and I’m excited to see what comes next.
Source: Seventeen
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