Overview
Instagram is a global photo and video sharing platform. Acquired by Facebook (now Meta) in 2012 for $1 billion, it has grown to over 2 billion monthly active users. Famously popular among youth, it shapes modern aesthetic trends via Stories and Reels.
Core Features
Photo & Video Posts
Apply artistic filters and edits before posting photos or videos
Stories Features
Vertical content that automatically vanishes from view after 24 hours
Instagram Reels
Short, engaging multi-clip videos set to music and sound effects
Shopping Portal
Find, explore, and purchase goods directly inside the Instagram interface
Filters & Effects
Interactive AR face masks and scenery filters for camera capture
Direct Messages
Send texts, media, voice notes, and make video calls privately
How to Use
Sign Up
Register a handle using email or login through Facebook (VPN needed in China).
Follow Accounts
Connect with friends or follow celebrities and creators to fill your feed.
Create Post
Tap the central '+' icon, choose your media, write a caption, and share.
Engage Feed
Double-tap to like, leave comments, and send posts to friends via DM.
Founding Story
Instagram was created by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, launching on iOS in October 2010. It quickly captured millions of users due to its elegant square-formatted photography focus. In April 2012, Facebook bought the company for $1 billion in cash and stock, a visionary purchase as the platform had no revenue and just 13 employees at the time. With the introduction of Stories in 2016 and Reels in 2020, Instagram established itself as a leading visual network.
FAQ
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