Instagram Unveils IGTV App - A Brand New Long-form Video Platform that May Rival YouTube
Last week speculation ran rife after TechCrunch
and WSJ
reported on a mysterious invite being sent round reporters on behalf of the
popular social media platform Instagram. The invitation offered little detail,
simply stating, “Instagram has some news to share, and we want you to be the
first to hear about it.” This event, scheduled for June 20th, coincided
perfectly with existing reports from insider sources which said that Instagram
had been quietly working on the development of a brand new long-form video
platform. The event has now of course taken place, providing confirmation on
the matter.
At the June 20th event Instagram revealed IGTV; the rumoured new platform made real. Available as both a
standalone app and as a feature within the flagship Instagram app, IGTV
features long-form video up to one hour in duration created with mobile viewers
in mind, all displayed vertically in full screen to make the user experience all
the easier on a smartphone.
Ease of use and user engagement are clearly the focus here. Videos
from those you already follow on Instagram will begin playing as soon as you
open the app; a feature which the company states is in order to replicate
traditional TV media and remove the need to search, but could well be a simple
ploy to up viewer figures on popular channels. You can also swipe up at any
time to discover more, easily switching between options including “For You”,
“Following”, “Popular”, and “Continue Watching.” You can also like, comment and
send videos to friends in Direct.
Instagram’s Co-Founder and CEO Kevin Systrom said in a post
detailing the announcement, “Instagram has always been a place to connect with
the people who inspire, educate and entertain you every day. With your
help, IGTV begins a new chapter of video on Instagram. We hope it brings
you closer to the people and things you love.”
Sam
is an aspiring novelist with a passion for fantasy and crime thrillers.
Currently working as Editor of Social Songbird, he hopes to one day drop that
'aspiring' prefix. Follow him @Songbird_Sam
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Instagram Unveils IGTV App - A Brand New Long-form Video Platform that May Rival YouTube
Reviewed by Unknown
on
Friday, June 22, 2018
Rating: