Last month several screenshots appeared that seemed to suggest that at least over in Russia, Instagram was testing out a new live feature. Basically this feature allows users to broadcast live videos to their followers. Given that Facebook already has a live feature of its own, it’s not surprising that Instagram would be following suit.
For those wondering whether or not the feature is the real deal, you can rest assured that it is. Speaking to the Financial Times (paywall; via The Verge), the company’s CEO Kevin Systrom confirmed that live is a feature that the company is currently working on, although he would not go into detail about it, such as what other features it might have, or when it will be available.
According to Systrom, “Live is really exciting for us. I think it can enhance what we’re doing. If I’m trying to strengthen relationships with someone I love, them streaming video to me live would be an amazing way to be closer to them.” Instagram and Facebook do test features from time to time, so whether or not they make the final cut is a different story entirely.
However like we said, Facebook already has a live feature which has been used to great success by all kinds of users and companies, so it does feel like live videos on Instagram feels more like a matter of when, and not if.