Great news from Instagram about the new link sticker feature, which replaced the swipe up feature previously used in the Story feature. After initially limiting the link sticker feature (and swipe up) to verified accounts and those accounts that had 10,000 or more followers, just last month, Instagram opened the link feature up to all accounts.
From their blog post:
Today, we’re expanding the ability to add links in Stories to all accounts. Over the years, businesses, creators and change-makers have shown how sharing resources and information can inspire their communities. From organizing and educating around equity, social justice and mental well-being to showcasing new product drops to customers, link sharing is helpful in many ways — so now we’re giving access to everyone.
When we first introduced Stories links, the feature was limited to verified accounts or those with a certain number of followers. We’ve heard from the rest of our community that they also want to share things that matter with their friends and family. Whatever you’re into, from cooking to volunteering or shopping, you now have a space to share in Stories — regardless of your account size.
We continue to be inspired by the change-makers on our platform and those who want to turn their passion into a living by sharing links. We recently introduced new ways for creators and businesses to reach more fans, engage their community and grow their reach, and we aim to further support them with access to links.
Use the Link sticker to add a link to your Instagram story. When people tap on the sticker, they’ll be redirected.
To add a Link sticker:
- Capture or upload content to your story
- Select the sticker tool from the top navigation bar
- Tap the “Link” sticker to add your desired link and tap “Done”
- Place the sticker on your story — like our other stickers — and tap on the sticker to see color variations
This change has some major implications for smaller accounts on Instagram, including businesses and creators who were previously forced to do link in bio CTA’s to send people to their articles and websites. Now the playing field is leveled and anybody, regardless of size or status, can now include links in their Instagram Story.
As a consultant I have already utilized this feature for my clients on Instagram that did not meet the previous threshold and can now add links to their Story. It’s a game changer and I’m excited to see how the feature develops from here and the innovative ways folks will use them.
How about you…have you tried the new link feature on your Instagram Story?
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