Instagram, a popular social media platform owned by Meta Platforms, is making strides to compete with Twitter by planning the release of a text-based app. The company is currently engaged in testing the app concept with renowned celebrities and influencers. Although select creators have been involved in discussions for several months, none of them have had access to the complete version of the app as of yet.
The upcoming text-based app will be distinct from Instagram but will offer the option for users to connect their accounts. According to information shared by Lia Haberman, a social and influencer marketing instructor at UCLA, the app is expected to make its debut as early as June. Furthermore, Haberman’s findings suggest that the app may eventually be compatible with other Twitter competitor platforms, including Mastodon.
While Instagram has not provided an official comment on the matter, Meta’s inclination to borrow features from other apps and platforms, based on their potential popularity among users, is well-known. This strategic move aligns with Meta’s approach to consolidating experiences and establishing a strong foothold in the market. The recent chaotic takeover of Twitter by Elon Musk has prompted some users to seek alternative platforms, creating an opportune moment for Instagram to introduce its text-based app.
Earlier reports from Moneycontrol.com indicated that Meta had been exploring plans for a text-based app under internal code names such as P92 or Barcelona. The anticipation surrounding Instagram’s foray into the text-based realm has positively impacted Meta’s shares, reaching their highest level since early 2022. Although the shares closed down 0.5% at $245.64 by the end of the day, their overall performance this year has shown significant growth, more than doubling in value.
As the release of Instagram’s text-based app draws nearer, it will undoubtedly pique the interest of social media enthusiasts and industry observers, sparking potential competition with established platforms like Twitter.
