A new Instagram update has been rolled out by Facebook this week which has removed the automatic sharing of activity from the Instagram iOS application directly to Facebook users’ accounts.
The new Instagram 5.0.11 update is now available to download from the Apple iTunes App Store. Once installed, it requires users to manually share images by selecting and using the share button within the application to share an image. This change marks a significant shift in how users interact with both Instagram and Facebook, emphasizing more user control over shared content.
Reasons Behind the Update
Facebook has not mentioned any specific reason for the alteration to the sharing feature within its iOS Instagram application. However, it will cut down on the huge amount of updates that were appearing on the Facebook social network. This move is likely aimed at reducing the clutter on users’ timelines, making the Facebook experience more streamlined and less overwhelming.
Instagram now enjoys over 200 million monthly users, many of whom would have had the iOS application linked to their Facebook account, generating an untold amount of notifications on a daily basis that would have been cluttering up Facebook users’ timelines. By requiring manual sharing, Facebook is likely aiming to improve the quality of content shared on its platform, ensuring that users are more intentional about what they post.
Impact on User Experience
Earlier this year, Facebook removed messaging from its iOS and Android applications, forcing users to use the new Facebook Messenger application instead. This move was met with mixed reactions, as it required users to download an additional app to continue their conversations. Similarly, the removal of the automatic Instagram sharing feature seems to have only been implemented on the iOS platform, while the Android Instagram application remains unchanged.
This selective update could be a testing ground for Facebook to gauge user reactions before rolling out similar changes across all platforms. Users who enjoyed the convenience of automatic sharing may find this update cumbersome, as it adds an extra step to their sharing process. On the other hand, those who prefer more control over their social media presence may welcome this change.
Moreover, this update could have implications for businesses and influencers who rely on seamless sharing to maintain their online presence. They will now need to be more diligent in manually sharing their content, which could affect their posting schedules and engagement rates.
In addition to these changes, it’s worth noting that Facebook and Instagram have been making several updates aimed at improving user experience and security. For instance, Instagram has introduced features like two-factor authentication and comment filtering to create a safer and more enjoyable environment for its users.
As social media platforms continue to evolve, users can expect more changes aimed at enhancing user experience and ensuring the quality of content. While these updates may require some adjustment, they ultimately aim to create a more engaging and less cluttered social media environment.
Source: TNW
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
