IG's New Link Feature: Launching Globally
Written by Trinity Duong
Instagram continues to implement new features in order to progress the quality and inclusivity of their community. Before there were many perks only made available to users with a certain amount of followers but just recently they’ve been expanding these features in order for better expansion within their social media network. One example of this is Instagram announcing that as of October 27th, 2021, all users globally are now able to add links to their Instagram stories which counteracts their previous agreement of needing ten thousand followers to access links. Now anyone can use the sticker tool “link” (previously known for their swipe-up feature).
Adam Mosseri posted in a Tweet that the reason for this update is the company’s response to reviews and feedback from the Instagram community.
“Today, we’re launching the new Link Sticker globally. This allows anyone, regardless of follower count, to easily share links in a story.
We’ve received a lot of feedback over the years on limiting links to accounts with >10k followers, and we heard you,”
Because of this shift, there is a massive change over in how we can share resources and information that can inspire different communities all over the world. We hope to see organized education through these links that surround social justice, mental health, and equity.
This feature can also help businesses expand by showcasing new products to customers.
In limiting the links to verified users or users with over ten thousand followers, there was an exclusivity to who got to share more. There was no balance in the voice of the people and now that it has become more accessible account holders are able to share things that they care about with their friends and family. Instagram has found a space to share stories with more harmony.
In removing the ten thousand rule as well, Instagram becomes a place that values quality over quantity. Instagram is now helping millions of creators and businesses to reach more customers and fans. We can now engage our communities and grow our reach.
Now that we have access, how do links work?
To add a Link sticker:
1) Capture and/or upload your content to your story
2) Select the sticker tool from the top navigation bar
3) Tap the “Link” sticker to add your desired link and then tap “Done”
4) Place the sticker on your story - like any other sticker - and tap on the sticker to see the different color variants
This is an Instagram update you have to be informed about and one that is the most exciting for the public eye! If you want to read about other previous Instagram updates make sure to check out “The Latest Instagram Updates” and “2021 Predictions For Instagram Usage”.
