Instagram has always limited who can post links in their stories. This feature was limited to users with either a verified account or who have passed the 10,000 follower milestone. Only such users could add a swipe-up link in their stories. But today, the company is starting a new test that could widen that ability. Instagram told The Verge, that it has started testing out this feature with a few select users wherein they can post links as a sticker with a tap instead of a swipe-up.
Well, whether Instagram will allow this feature for every user is still unclear but for now, Vishal Shah, Instagram’s head of product, tells The Verge that the goal right now is to observe how the users are going to use this feature and track the types of links people post, also keeping in mind that this feature does not promote sharing of misinformation or spams. Shah says, “this test brings links into the same kind of overall system, which from a simplicity of system perspective, also makes a lot of sense.”
Links will be limited to stories for now, however. Shah says there’s “no plan” to bring them to the feed or any other part of the app.
This test appears to be for the most part designated at users or influencers who’ve discovered a voice and reach on the platform, however perhaps not to the levels that Instagram needs to acquire a swipe-up feature. Instagram seems to be experimenting with many new features with its platform. Recently, Instagram introduced the feature to upload a post from your computer which earlier seemed a no show. At around the same time, it started a separate trial to see how people respond to seeing suggested posts throughout their feed. Once again, it’s anything but a little test, so don’t expect the platform to change quickly, for the time being, however it very well may be the beginning of individuals web browsing from within the Instagram app more frequently.
