Last week, the Bean Team took a closer look at Snapchat and the new features it has added to keep users intrigued. Just this week, Instagram fired back with some new changes as well. The app has created Instagram Stories, a feature that lives at the top of the Instagram newsfeed and allows users to pop in a stream of photos that expire after 24 hours, just like Snapchat.
The story features on Instagram and Snapchat are strikingly similar. Everything from creating your story to browsing through others’ stories has clearly been influenced by Snapchat.
The difference between the two apps is that many claim one is easier to use than the other. Snapchat is definitely aimed at the younger generations- Millennials are able to enjoy it without needing to be taught. Older adults, on the other hand, are struggling to keep up with Snapchat and are having difficulty navigating through it.
Instagram created its own version of Snapchat Stories, but in a way that is arguably more useful and enjoyable for everyone. Hints and tips pop up that explain exactly what to do and how to proceed. Additionally, Instagram Stories has labeled buttons compared to Snapchat’s “swipe” navigation, which has proved confusing to many.
Instagram Stories has similar drawing features that you would find on Snapchat, but fewer buttons and options that can get in the way when trying to share a photo. Rather than swiping up on a Snapchat photo in order to reply to it, Instagram has an obvious ‘Send Message’ button that helps users do this with ease. These small changes between the stories on Instagram and Snapchat may be making Instagram more effective through user friendliness.
We think it’s important to note that Instagram already has a huge network full of users that actively use the app to share moments, discover new people, and stay connected with current friends (and foe, for that matter). This already established photo-sharing community is what may allow Instagram to surpass Snapchat in a space where Snapchat was previously the only player.
Increasing your business’s social media presence means utilizing popular photo sharing apps. Whether it’s through real-time media that expires in 24 hours or a traditional archive of visual content, the Bean Team will get you the online exposure your company needs!