With a new year upon us, that means that social media companies are about to release new versions and new trends! Here's what's in store for Instagram in 2019:
Augmented Reality Story Filters
The fun, interactive story filters started as a beta project for select companies and celebrities. But as they continue to roll out the features, more brands will be able to have a unique way to advertise...and it's fun for users!
Buying Direct Through Instagram
As if we didn't need an easier way to spend money! Now Instagram will have a shopping feature where users can buy products directly!
Cinemagraphs
You can create these still images (with a little bit of movement) by using apps like PLOTAVERSE!
Story Highlights
For those of us who are fluent in social media, you probably already know about these! But they're a great way for brands to organize content or for users to just keep memories for their followers to see! People have gotten creative and made the icons for all their highlights to match!
Influencer Authenticity
With the rise in "influencer" accounts, it's hard to tell who actual has loyal followers and who just has a lot of accounts that follow them. You can check out various influencers through sites such as SocialBakers to see what they're really like and sort them based on interests.
Instagram Story Ads
Less exciting for users but for brands this is a good way to get the word out about your company. As people go through all the stories from users they follow, ads will pop up in between. According to Instagram, 1/3 of the 400 million users that view stories each day view stories from brands.