Instagram has gone and done a thing, finally, which will inevitably change once again the way we interact and engage with other users, as well as with brands. The popular social media platform has rolled out a new feature that is sure to inject some additional fun and personality into the comments section.
Instagram addicts and users now have the option to respond, express themselves and react using the beloved GIFs as comments. After a limited availability and testing period where the feature was enabled for a number of users, it seems that the success of the new feature was inevitable and is now available to all users, globally. The mechanism is simple, as GIFs will be added from Giphy’s library through a new button on the right corner of the comment box.
The Instagram experience keeps getting refreshed and the animated responses is the latest popular addition that although may not be the most ground-breaking, as other platforms have already been offering this option for a while, it will surely add a new level of impact and life into everyday conversations.
The integration of GIFs will possibly give the feed of the platform a whole new dimension, as well as enhance the sentimental and humorous approach to responses. It’s an additional way to add emotions, opinions and reactions to the comments sections, which hopefully will be achieved in a rather entertaining way.
GIFs have the power of universality, where a single animated video, whether that’s a famous quote from The Office or a distinct reaction, has the power to be recognizable across the globe, beyond any language. It transcends any barriers by focusing on the prevalence of highly recognizable animated videos that can directly communicate excitement, sarcasm, disbelief and any other sentiment that can contribute towards a more enjoyable interaction.
The movement towards utilising GIFs over text-based comments and responses has been years in the making, as they offer a dynamic exchange that grabs attention immediately, sparks curiosity and enhances engagement. Instagram is surely looking to take its user engagement a step further with this latest addition, as it also provides brands, influencers and users with the opportunity to build upon and share their honest thoughts in a more fun way.
Instagram has forever been a visually-focused social environment and offering GIFs as an option in the comments section seems like a no-brainer, as they will further add to the artistic, interactive and engaging side of the social media platform.
With user expression at the forefront, GIFs are the way to go!
And Instagram is not stopping there, since Meta has already announced some new editing techniques that will soon be available for Reels, such as split video, speed-up, and slo-mo clips.
Instagram is already an even more creative playground than ever before! With GIFs being available in the comment sections, brands and their trusted community have the ability to curate a whole new level of communication that can be achieved in fun and entertaining ways. Social media platforms give you the chance to turn every interaction into a joyous experience. And why not?
GIF it a shot and shake things up!
