Instagram today announced two new features, one of which will let users live stream for about an hour. The feature, called Live Video, is accessible by swiping right from the feed to open the camera and tapping on ‘Start Live Video’
Live Video works pretty much in the same way as Facebook’s live streaming. When you go Live, your followers will be notified and they will also see a little ‘Live’ text under your profile on the Instagram Stories bar. Again, like Facebook live streaming, viewers will be able to leave comments and ‘like’ the video to their hearts content. Instagram has also added live stories in the Explore tab so you can check out videos from all over the world, as well.
The second feature that Instagram has incorporated is disappearing photos and videos in direct messages. You will now be able to take photos or videos and send them privately to an individual or a group. However, unlike text messages, these photos and videos will disappear from your friend’s inboxes after they have seen them. The app will notify you if that friend has viewed them or taken a screenshot. This feature is only available to people who follow you.
The new Instagram update will roll out soon on Android and iOS devices. Once it hits your phone, do check out the new features and let us know what you think of them in the comments below!
