In what seemed like a move to compete with Snapchat, Instagram recently added a new feature which lets users upload ‘stories’ and show followers what is happening in their lives. Surprisingly, Instagram didn't bother to alter the name as it was inspired by competitor Snapchat's same feature.
Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom, in a statement to The Verge, said, “You’re going to see stories pop up in other networks over time, because it’s one of the best ways to show visual information in chronological order.” Systrom feels that just as Facebook popularised the idea of the feed; Snapchat created a highly convenient way of helping people communicate using slideshows. Therefore, customising the feature is perhaps, one of the only ways of remaining competitive in the market. Even Pablo Picasso had once said, -"Good artists copy; great artists steal.-"
So, what's the big deal if this phrase is being carried on and implemented even generations later What's more — this isn't the first time Instagram's developer (Facebook Inc) has reportedly copied Snapchat. With apps such as Slingshot, Poke and Riff, Facebook has consistently attempted to instil Snapchat elements into the former. It's another story that they failed to catch on. However, this time around, Facebook's effort may finally pay off.
Instagram vs. Snapchat Instagram is better established in foreign markets and with the latest addition; the users have one less reason to even try Snapchat now. Moreover, the ‘story’ feature in Instagram has led many first-time users to stay glued to the app. Several users of the platform are finding it increasingly difficult to use Snapchat. Its insular view of design is what seems to risk the app's future growth. The app does not have a follow or subscribe system in place, nor does it contain a favourite button. Moreover, there is no way of comparing one users’ popularity to another. At the same time, it remains undeniable that Snapchat is the one app that has pioneered the selfie camera. They are the ones that can rightly be given primary credit for creating a culture of frequent sharing. “I believe Snapchat benefits from its lack of polish,” product designer Bobby Goodlatte wrote back in 2013. “The roughness of the interface encourages sharing rougher moments of life. Your five-second keg stand video belongs on Snapchat. It doesn't belong in a pixel-perfect 'just so' interface,” he concluded. Instagram’s story feature has been received an exciting change. It has 0encouraged many to share carelessly, making Instagram hold the best of both worlds.
Naturally, the growth of the Snapchat will stall if its most potent features are being copied to such an extent. How they approach this problem, is what will decide the future of their app and something needs to be done soon.
