Instagram Direct update is Facebook's latest attack on Snapchat
Stop me if you've heard this one: Instagram is making itself a better app by taking some cues from Snapchat.
The former photo-sharing app is launching a new version of Direct, its one-to-one and group messaging, with more features. Starting Tuesday, disappearing photos and videos will appear in the same text threads as other messages with friends.
SEE ALSO:In defense of Snapchat, a manifestoPrior to this update, Instagram's chat screen featured annoying bubbles at the top bar that hosted ephemeral messages from friends (the Snapchat copycat feature introduced in November 2016). Other chats were below:
Instagram Direct in November 2016Credit: instagramNow, these chats are combined into individual threads for one-to-one messages and for group messages:
It seems strange to not have combined the two earlier. For Instagram it appears the disappearing messaging feature was a slow rollout. Can't surprise Instagram users with a full blown transformation to Snapchat all at once, eh?
Instagram users can now access the blue camera icon in three different places on the Direct screen. The camera icon appears three places on the Direct screen: at the bottom; next to each individual thread; and within individual threads.
So many ways to create content! Instagram created a 47-second video to show what you could send, using the characters rock, paper and scissors with the song "Sonny's Boogaloo" by Sonny Knight and The Lakers playing in the background.
Unlike Snapchat, Instagram threads will display the actions that take place. Even though a photo disappears, for example, the text thread will show that a person had sent a photo. As before, senders are notified if you screenshot a thread. Snapchat also has Bitmoji and video and audio calls as exclusive features — for now.
Still, Instagram has the bigger audience. Instagram reported Tuesday that the number of people using Direct has grown from 300 million in November 2016 to 375 million every month. Snapchat does not report monthly active users but last touted 161 million daily active users.
Featured Video For You
This tricycle for adults will have you looking like the coolest kid on campus
(责任编辑:关于我们)
- I used the Pixel 9 Pro XL in the shower — does the screen work when wet as claimed?
- N. Korea says it test
- How to screen record on an iPhone
- Andrew Paul
- Webb telescope just snapped image of huge black hole gobbling material
- 2022年未成年人思想道德建设工作检查考评会召开
- Humongous stellar
- Pakistan to host ODI tri
- What to expect when a tech bubble bursts
- 立案侦办涉养老诈骗犯罪案件50起 追赃挽损1499万余元
- US Space Force to perform world's first military exercise in orbit
- Skepticism clouds young voters ahead of general election
- Echo Dot (5th gen) deal — get it for $29.99 at Amazon
- 19 Catacombs Sure to Tingle Your Spine