Meta Tests Disappearing Photo App Instants in Spain and Italy
Meta is currently piloting a new app named Instants, which is being tested in Spain and Italy. This app enables users to share unedited photos that disappear after 24 hours, viewable only once. It promotes real-time, spontaneous sharing, directly competing with platforms like Snapchat and BeReal. Users can capture images within the app using a single tap; however, they cannot edit these photos or upload them from their camera rolls, although text can be added. Instants can be shared with mutual followers or a Close Friends list and is accessible on both iOS and Android. Meta has yet to announce a launch in the United States. This initiative aligns with Instagram's shift towards more transient content as engagement on photo-centric platforms declines.
Key facts
- Instagram launched a standalone app called Instants for sharing disappearing photos.
- Instants is currently available only in Spain and Italy.
- Photos taken in Instants cannot be edited or uploaded from a camera roll.
- Each 'instant' can be viewed only once and expires after 24 hours.
- The app competes with Snapchat and BeReal.
- Users can send Instants to mutual followers or a Close Friends list.
- Instants is available on iOS and Android.
- Meta has not revealed when or if Instants will launch in the United States.
Entities
Institutions
- Meta
- TechCrunch
- Snapchat
- BeReal
Locations
- Spain
- Italy
- United States