Social media giant Instagram is now reversing the new updates the platform introduced as a ‘test’, after receiving backlash from users.
The updates included full-screen photo and video posts, which was developed to replace its distinctive user interface design.
The photo and video sharing mobile application, which is used by over 1.4 billion people globally, was accused of mimicking TikTok – a short form video platform.
A post urging the company to ‘make Instagram Instagram again,’ sought 1.6 million likes and nearly 140,000 petition signatures from users who stated that the platform should keep its focus on picture posts.
Instagram chief Adam Mosseri released a video on Tuesday, stating that the platform will still be a picture-based app, however to keep up with evolving user preferences, it will focus on video content as well.
“I’m glad we took a risk — if we’re not failing every once in a while, we’re not thinking big enough or bold enough,” Mosseri said in an interview, adding that the platform will “come back with some sort of new idea or iteration.”
Mosseri explained Instagram, owned by Meta, will temporarily reduce the number of videos recommended by the algorithm for now stating that it is “not yet good.”
Meta has been trying to incorporate products that mimic competitors, with Meta chief executive officer Mark Zuckerberg, adding that his company must act fast to keep up with evolving trends and features.
On Wednesday, Meta reported its first quarterly drop. Zuckerberg said Instagram ‘reels’ was driving engagement and growth, adding that company will strengthen the product category soon.
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