Instagram to launch ‘IGTV’ long-form video hub today?

New editing tools expected to boost video
upload limit from 60 seconds to an hour

One-Minute Read

According to TechCrunch, the new feature is to be called IGTV and
will be located in the Facebook-owned app’s Explore tab, where
users can find pictures and videos created by other
users. 

At the moment, Instagram users can only upload videos that
are a maximum of 60 seconds long, but the tech site says IGTV will
increase that limit to up to 60 minutes. 

The social network is aiming to attract internet celebrities,
rather than media companies, with the new feature, The Verge reports. Instagram is also believed
to be “courting individuals to start producing content”, the news
site adds.

If the rumours are true, IGTV will pose a greater threat
to YouTube than to video messaging app Snapchat, which features
more content from “traditional outlets” such as MTV and
Vice.

IGTV users will be able to link to existing posts and websites
through the video feature, which could help social influencers
drive traffic towards their online stores, says Engadget.

There may also be a financial incentive with a
“monetisation” option, the website adds. Some YouTubers make a
living on that platform through advertising
revenue. 

If the new video features were to prove popular, Instagram
might launch a dedicated IGTV app, according to
TechCrunch.

IGTV is expected to be launched today during an Instagram
press conference scheduled to take place at 9am PST (5pm UK
time).