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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.”

IGTV will begin rolling out globally over the next few weeks on both Android and iOS devices.



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: 5
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