Instagram Updates: From Swipe up Links to Sticker Tap

Written by Trinity Duong

Instagram continues to be a social media platform that creates a network and community outside of their own application. Through the use of links that you can add to your stories or biography, it has never been easier to drive more traffic to other websites. 

Stories have seen a significant boost in engagement since the introduction of the links in 2017. Instagram has seen major improvements in comparison to website links in your profile because users are able to choose photos, visual images, videos, and designs to arouse interest in the link you post. Your images can also serve as a trailer or preview of what to expect on the website, online store, or pages. 

In the age of social media activism, links have also become a valuable tool in propelling certain movements. Online activism has also helped organize in-person rallies and help put forward proper educational forums and viable donation funds.

Online businesses and industries have also begun using Instagram as a way to shop. Therefore there was a huge boom in e-commerce that rely on their links to external pages for purchasing. 

Instagram has recently begun notifying users that the original swipe-up gesture to access links is going to be replaced on August 30th, 2021. The application will now use a new link sticker instead. The decision for this was unclear however it is speculated to be a tool for convenience. 

However, just like with the swipe-up links, the sticker taps will only be readily available for users with more than ten thousand followers or users that have been verified by the platform that holds a blue checkmark. 

Therefore, accessing links will now utilize a single tap instead of a swipe. In removing the swipe, users will now be able to swipe up in order to direct message or react to the story and link, something that was not possible with the swipe up link.

Since links have become more normalized with activism and the online fashion industries growing, Instagram seems satisfied with its accessibility therefore, it’s unclear if this tool will become available for all users or that limitations will be reinforced.

Let us know what you think about this new Instagram update. If you’re interested in learning more about the changes Instagram has made in the past and how to take advantage of these shifts make sure to read “The New Instagram: Video Sharing Platform”.