A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the New Instagram Feature
With over one billion active monthly users, Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms available today. It’s a platform that continuously evolves to add new features and functionalities. Instagram TV, also known as IGTV, is one such feature launched by Instagram in June 2018. In this blog, we will explore what Instagram TV is, how it works, and how you can use it for your personal or business needs.
What Exactly is Instagram TV?
Simply put, Instagram TV is a standalone app and feature that allows users to share and view vertical video content that’s up to 60 minutes long. Unlike regular Instagram videos that can only last 60 seconds, IGTV takes advantage of the screen size of smartphones and stretches videos so users can view them in full screen, without having to flip their phone.
How Does It Work?
Instagram TV is incredibly easy to use. Once you download the IGTV app, you can access it from within the main Instagram app or by opening it on its own. When you open the app, you will see two tabs: “For You” and “Following”. The “For You” tab shows you recommended videos based on your activity and the people you follow. The “Following” tab, as the name suggests, shows you the channels of people you follow.
To start watching a video, simply tap on it, and it will start playing in full screen mode. You can comment, like, and share the video with your followers or others on Instagram.
How Can You Use IGTV?
There are many ways you can use Instagram TV to your advantage – as an individual or as a business account. For instance, you can use IGTV to share behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with your team, product demos and reviews, or to showcase your creativity with visual arts, music or dance.
For business accounts, IGTV can be a fantastic platform to showcase your brand’s story, share your company culture, introduce new products or services, and as a tool to drive traffic to your website or your main Instagram page.
Tips for Creating Great Content
To create valuable and engaging content for Instagram TV, consider the following tips:
- Plan your content in advance and ensure it aligns with your brand’s overall strategy
- Optimize your videos for mobile viewing by keeping a vertical orientation, and using high-quality visuals
- Hook your audience in the first few seconds by creating a visually stimulating opening scene
- Use subtitles or captions to make your videos more accessible and readable
- Encourage engagement by asking your viewers questions, polls or calls-to-action
Conclusion
Instagram TV is a powerful tool that can help you and your business connect with your audience and share your message in a creative and engaging way. By understanding how Instagram TV works, and by exploring the best practices for creating great content, you can leverage this platform to grow your followers, extend brand awareness, and potentially increase conversions. Are you ready to create your first IGTV video?
