Instagram is changing a new format - and a new algorithm - in what could be the biggest change the platform has ever seen. Here's what you need to know...
What changes has Instagram announced?
Instagram's head, Adam Mosseri made the announcement that they will be prioritising discovered content, or "things you might love and haven't heard of yet" along with changes of format.
Here he is, explaining the changes (Don't worry, we'll summarise them for you below - but this is a direct reaction to the rise of TikTok).
What has Instagram done to the layout in 2022?
So the first thing is that the iconic, historic, square shape for images and videos is no more. Instead of square format pictures, Instagram will now be displaying the feed in the new 9:16 ratio.
This is supposed to give a more "immersive" user experience by making a post fill the whole screen. But what does that mean in practice?
If you post a square image to the feed, Instagram will automatically fill the top and bottom of the screen with a blurred section - padding out the image to 9:16.
Has Instagram's update killed the caption?
You will still be able to post captions BUT they will show over the image, rather than underneath it. This will mean that some thought must be given so the initial lines of captions are still readable.
If the image is detailed towards the bottom then the text will be very hard to read!
What will the new Instagram algorithm do to organic reach?
Instagram's decision to prioritise new content is a copy of TikTok's "For You Page".
This means that content you actually follow will play second fiddle, so organic reach to existing audiences will be tricker - users' default view is likely to be new, unfilled videos, with the followed content on a secondary view.
The potential upside is easier reach to new audiences. The potential downside is less engagement from existing audiences... But time will tell.
What do you think of the changes?
The changes will certainly cause some differences of opinion - Let us know your thoughts below!
What do you think of these Instagram changes for 2022?
- Change for the better
- Change for the worse
- Won't make a difference