Instagram Embraces Live Video And Ephemeral Messaging

Instagram has rapidly been adding new features to the platform and it’s out with two new features today. Live video will now be available on Instagram Stories, allowing users to broadcast video live to their followers. It’s also embracing ephemeral messaging, the kind that Snapchat made popular. Users can now send photos and videos in Instagram Direct that disappear after a predetermined period of time.

Live Video on Instagram Stories enables users to broadcast the moment as it happens. When they’re done broadcasting, the live story disappears from the app.

Starting a broadcast is easy, swipe right from the feed to open the camera where users will now find a “Start Live Video” button. Broadcasts can be of up to one hour and users’ friends may get a notification when you go live so that they can tune in. The Live Video feature and the Explore tab which highlights some of the best broadcasts from the Instagram community will be rolling out globally over the next few weeks.

Instagram users can now also send disappearing photos and videos to groups and friends in Instagram Direct. They can be shared with one or multiple friends and the photo or video will automatically be deleted once they’ve viewed it. Just like Snapchat, you’ll be notified if they replay it or take a screenshot. This new feature is rolling out to all users starting today.

Adnan Farooqui
Categories: Cellphones
Tags: Apps, Instagram