Instagram has been testing a number of new features, including one of their most requested – swipe-ups without 10,000 followers. We’re taking a look at the latest Instagram updates…
Instagram Link Sticker
Want to ditch the “link in bio” call-to-action? You might just be in luck! Alessandro Paluzzi spotted that Instagram seem to be testing a Link Sticker for Stories.
Currently only accounts with over 10,000 followers are allowed to add swipe up links to their Stories. Nothing has officially been confirmed yet, but people are very hopeful that this update may expand the feature to all users.
Instagram Monetisation
In a recent Instagram Live broadcast, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri shared how the platform is evolving to “help creators make a living over the long run.” This includes working on three new monetisation features to help influencers and creators make money on the platform.
During the broadcast, Zuckerberg shared that Instagram has plans to launch Creator Shops. This will build on the existing shopping feature to allow creators sell digital products and merchandise. According to Zuckerberg, Creator Shops would be similar to its existing Instagram and Facebook shops for eCommerce, but would be open to a broader range of users.
Instagram will also introduce a new affiliate commerce program for creators. This will make it easier for creators to earn commission on product sales for brands they recommend on the platform. It will likely require sales to be completed entirely within the platform using Instagram Checkout.
Finally, Instagram announced a branded content marketplace, this will connect brands and influencers for sponsorship opportunities.
“We should be able to help brands find creators that are uniquely aligned with the work they’re trying to do and vice versa,” shared Mosseri. “If we can help with matchmaking, we can help drive more dollars to the smaller creators who can do amazing work for brands.”
When should we expect these updates?
There’s no word on when exactly these features will be rolled out, but no doubt it will over the next year. It’s clear to see that Instagram want users to spend more time on the platform.