What is Instagram? | Social Media - Class 8 PDF Download

Introduction

Instagram is a popular social media platform that allows users to share photos, videos, and stories, as well as engage with others through comments, likes, and direct messages. Launched in 2010 by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, Instagram has become one of the most widely used social media apps worldwide.

History and Evolution of Instagram

Instagram began as a photo-sharing app designed to make sharing and editing pictures more accessible to the masses. Initially, it was a simple app for sharing photos with filters, but over time, it evolved into a comprehensive social platform. Here’s a brief timeline of Instagram’s journey:

• 2010: Instagram is founded by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger.

• 2012: Instagram is acquired by Facebook (now Meta) for approximately $1 billion.

• 2013: The introduction of video sharing, allowing users to upload videos up to 15 seconds.

• 2016: Instagram Stories are launched, modeled after Snapchat’s Stories feature.

• 2017–2020: Instagram adds shopping features, IGTV (long-form video), and influencer marketing becomes a key part of the platform.

• 2021 and Beyond: Instagram continues to innovate, adding new features like Reels, shopping integration, and tools to combat online harm.

Why use Instagram?

• One of the main reasons people love Instagram is its simplicity. The app is designed around a single idea: making it super easy to share and see photos from friends.
• Instagram also offers filters that can transform a regular photo into something special in just a few seconds. These filters change the look of your photo, making it more attractive and fun to share.

 For example, take a look at the embedded Instagram photo below:
Now take a look at the same photo with a few Instagram filters. We applied these filters in just a few seconds, and we didn't need any special or technical knowledge to use them.

As you can see, filters can give you a lot of flexibility with your photos, which also makes them more fun to share with your friends.

Is Instagram appropriate for everyone?

• Instagram is intended for users who are at least 13 years old, in accordance with legal guidelines to ensure safety and privacy.
• Although some inappropriate content may be encountered on Instagram, the platform enforces strict rules against nudity and various types of offensive posts.
• Instagram implements user privacy and content moderation policies to maintain a safe environment for its community.

Instagram's Impact on Society

Instagram has had a significant cultural and societal impact. It has transformed how we communicate, share experiences, and consume content. However, it has also raised concerns related to:

• Mental Health: Research shows that excessive use of social media, including Instagram, can negatively impact mental well-being, leading to issues like body image concerns, anxiety, and depression.

• Social Influence: Instagram has created a culture of comparison, where users often feel pressured to present a curated, idealized version of their lives.

• Privacy and Data Security: As part of the larger Meta (formerly Facebook) ecosystem, Instagram has faced scrutiny over user data privacy and security.