Instagram has announced a new feature that allows users to post video Notes on their profiles. This feature, known as Notes, was originally introduced last year and only allowed for text and emoji updates. But now, users can also share two-second looping videos that will be visible to their followers and Close Friends for 24 hours. This update adds a new dimension to Instagram’s already existing video Stories feature.
At first glance, the addition of video Notes may seem confusing, as Instagram Stories also allow for video sharing. However, the two-second timeframe and limited camera options suggest that Notes will not replace the popular Stories feature. Additionally, unlike Stories, Notes can only be posted using the front-facing camera within the app. This means that users cannot upload pre-recorded videos from their phone’s camera gallery.
To post a video Note, simply go to your inbox, click on your photo in the Notes tray, and then tap the camera button on top. From there, you can record a quick two-second video and choose to add text before posting it.
“Our friends have always been able to respond to a Note with text, but now they have even more options.”
In addition to text, Instagram is also introducing the ability to respond to Notes with audio, photos, videos, GIFs, and stickers. This adds a new level of interaction and creativity to the feature. Responses will be sent as direct messages to the friend who posted the Note.
Interestingly, when Notes was first launched in December 2022, it was seen as a potential competitor to Twitter (now known as X). The feature offered a way for users to communicate through text without the character limit of Twitter. This was during a time when people were searching for alternative platforms after Elon Musk acquired Twitter. In fact, there were rumors that Meta was considering turning Notes into a full-fledged Twitter rival. However, this role has now been taken by Threads, which was launched in August.
