Instagram: 10 Things You Should Know and 10 Interesting Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Instagram, now a part of Meta, is one of the most influential platforms for content creators and brands worldwide. Known for its visual appeal, it has evolved from a photo-sharing app to a multifunctional platform for businesses, creators, and users alike. Whether you’re leveraging it for personal branding or business growth, here’s an in-depth look at Instagram’s essentials and some surprising trivia.
10 Things You Should Know About Instagram
1. It Was Launched in 2010:
Instagram was founded by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger and officially launched on October 6, 2010. Initially, it was exclusive to iOS.
2. Facebook Acquired Instagram in 2012:
Just two years after its launch, Instagram was bought by Facebook (now Meta) for $1 billion in cash and stock, a move that solidified its dominance.
3. It Has Over 2 Billion Active Users:
Instagram has a massive user base, with more than 2 billion monthly active users, making it a critical platform for creators and brands.
4. Reels Are a Key Growth Feature:
Launched in 2020 to compete with TikTok, Instagram Reels now plays a vital role in content discovery and engagement, especially for younger audiences.
5. It’s a Hub for E-Commerce:
With features like Instagram Shops, product tags, and in-app checkout, Instagram is a powerful tool for businesses looking to sell directly to consumers.
6. Visual Content Dominates:
Instagram thrives on high-quality visual content, including photos, videos, Stories, and carousel posts, offering versatile ways for creators to engage audiences.
7. It’s a Revenue Giant for Meta:
Instagram generated $43.2 billion in ad revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly 50% of Meta’s advertising income.
8. Stories Boost Engagement:
Introduced in 2016, Instagram Stories allow users to share content that disappears after 24 hours. Over 500 million people use Stories daily.
9. It Favors Authenticity:
Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes authentic engagement and consistent posting, rewarding creators who foster genuine interactions with their audience.
10. It’s a Multi-Purpose Platform:
From influencer marketing and brand promotions to casual sharing and community building, Instagram caters to diverse needs.
10 Interesting Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Instagram
1. The First Instagram Post:
Co-founder Kevin Systrom uploaded the first Instagram post in July 2010—a photo of his dog and a taco stand with the caption “Test.”
2. The Most-Liked Post Is an Egg:
A photo of an ordinary brown egg (@world_record_egg) holds the record for the most-liked post on Instagram, with over 56 million likes.
3. It Reached 1 Million Users in Two Months:
Instagram’s growth was explosive—it gained 1 million users just two months after its launch.
4. It Was Originally Called “Burbn”:
Before becoming Instagram, the app was called “Burbn,” a check-in app similar to Foursquare, before shifting focus to photo sharing.
5. More Women Use Instagram:
Approximately 51% of Instagram users are women, making it one of the few platforms with a nearly balanced gender ratio.
6. It’s a Global Platform:
Over 88% of Instagram’s users are outside the U.S., making it a global hub for creators and businesses alike.
7. The Richest Influencers Earn Millions:
Celebrities like Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylie Jenner charge over $1.5 million per sponsored post, making Instagram a lucrative platform for top influencers.
8. Hashtags Are Crucial:
Posts with at least one hashtag have 12.6% more engagement than those without, making them a key tool for discoverability.
9. The Longest Instagram Live Stream:
In 2020, influencer Ivan Sokolov set the record for the longest Instagram live stream, lasting 45 hours and 44 minutes.
10. Instagram’s Dark Mode Was a Huge Hit:
When Instagram introduced Dark Mode in 2019, it quickly became a fan favorite, showing how design features can excite users.
Why This Matters for SMACC Members
For social media content creators, Instagram remains a cornerstone platform for building audiences, driving engagement, and monetizing content. Here’s why it’s essential:
• High Engagement Rates: Instagram boasts some of the highest engagement rates across all social media platforms.
• Visual Branding: Its visual focus allows creators to showcase their brand identity through photos, videos, and design elements.
• Influencer Opportunities: With a thriving influencer ecosystem, creators can connect with brands for collaborations and sponsorships.
• Evolving Features: Instagram’s constant updates (e.g., Reels, Shops) provide new ways to create, share, and monetize content.
• Global Reach: With billions of users worldwide, Instagram offers unmatched reach for creators looking to expand their audience.
Final Thoughts
Instagram’s rise from a simple photo-sharing app to a multifaceted platform is a testament to its innovation and adaptability. For SMACC members, mastering Instagram’s tools, understanding its trends, and creating engaging content are vital steps to staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of social media. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting, Instagram offers immense potential for growth and creativity.
