After several days of controversy, Instagram backpedals. The group renounces its design change and even announces changes to its algorithm.
When something goes wrong, the best solution is to complain.
Only days after introducing a controversial new design for Instagram, completely modeled on that of TikTok, the retropedal social network. Faced with the dissatisfaction of users, including stars like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner, Instagram announces that the people selected for this test will find the old interface in the next two weeks. Adam Mosseri, the boss of the social network, explained to The Verge on July 28: “I’m glad we took a risk. If we don’t fail once in a while, we’re not being bold enough.”.
Video is the future of Instagram
Why is Instagram abandoning its new design so quickly, after saying two days earlier that this development was going in the right direction? Adam Mosseri explains not only relying on criticism on social networks and in the media, but above all analyzing internal data: “People are frustrated and the usage data isn’t great”. While it’s common to see users complain when there are design changes, they usually end up getting used to it. For once, Instagram thinks it won’t. “So there, I think we have to take a big step back, regroup and figure out how we want to move forward. », Analyzes his boss.
However, Adam Mosseri maintains his position on the future of Instagram. According to him, the short video will replace the photo. Instagram will continue to evolve in this direction but will not copy the TikTok interface.
The algorithm will be reviewed
Instagram is taking advantage of its mea culpa on design to address other topics, such as the algorithmic changes often decried by its users. Recommended publications, more and more advertisements, content from friends hidden by those of brands… Instagram is no longer the photo-sharing application it once was.
First change, Instagram will reduce the number of publications suggested in your news feed, while waiting to review its recommendation algorithm. “When you find something you didn’t follow before in your feed, you should think it’s great. I don’t think that happens enough today. So I think we have to go back, reduce the percentage of recommendations, improve and, when possible, start again. »
Are these changes positive for Instagram? Certainly, but they are mainly there to calm users down. Adam Mosseri insists several times on their temporary nature, while waiting to find alternatives. Instagram has not finished chasing TiKTok on its land. Luckily, his Reels are becoming more and more popular.