Instagram launches Instagram Live and updates Direct messages

Instagram has announced 2 new updates to the app : Instagram Live and an update to Instagram Direct. It’s basically a Snapchat and Facebook mix now. Users will now be able to create/stream live video on Instagram Stories and send disappearing photos and videos to followers in Instagram Direct.

In August, Instagram Stories was created which works similar to Snapchat by allowing you to record a short video or take a picture which later disappears) and is now being used by over 100 million people use it every day. The new Instagram Live videos disappear from the app after a while as well. Here’s how it works:

Now you can send disappearing photos and videos directly to groups and individual friends in a spontaneous, pressure-free way.

‘Since launching improvements to Instagram Direct last year, the number of people using Direct each month has grown from 80 million to 300 million people around the world. In fact, many of them use group threads every day to stay in touch with their closest friends and family.’ – Instagram

The update to the Instagram Direct has just added a more visual way to share content. Users can swipe right into the camera to take a photo or video and then tap the arrow to send it privately. Content can be sent to groups or individuals within the app. Unlike regular messages in Direct, these photos and videos disappear after they have been opened and seen. There is also a notification to show if the video/photo has been replayed or screenshot.

Whether an account is public or private disappearing photos and videos can only be sent to people who follow the user.

Instagram has changed what was an arrow to a paper plane icon to allow users share photos and videos directly from their timeline to friends or groups through Direct messages.

‘To open your inbox, tap the new paper airplane icon at the top right corner of your feed or swipe left. You’ll see disappearing photos and videos in a bar at the top. Tap the ones with blue rings to see what your friends sent you. In a group, you can see everyone’s responses, and who else has seen them, in a slideshow format. Then when you’re done, just tap their faded profile photo to send a quick response.’ – Instagram

Disappearing photos and videos in Instagram Direct have already been rolled out. Update the app to access it.

Download for iOS and Android.