In 2018, Instagram launched IGTV, a video-sharing feature that allowed users to upload longer-form videos up to 60 minutes. The platform was designed to compete with YouTube and other video-sharing sites, offering creators a new way to share their content with their audience. However, since its launch, IGTV has faced significant challenges, leading many to wonder: is IGTV still a thing?
The Rise And Fall Of IGTV
When IGTV first launched, it was met with excitement and anticipation. Many creators saw it as an opportunity to share more in-depth content with their audience, and the platform quickly gained popularity. However, as time went on, IGTV’s popularity began to decline. Despite its initial success, the platform struggled to compete with YouTube and other established video-sharing sites.
What Went Wrong?
So, what went wrong with IGTV? There are several reasons why the platform failed to gain long-term traction. One of the main reasons was the lack of monetization options for creators. Unlike YouTube, which offers a robust monetization program for creators, IGTV did not offer a similar program, making it difficult for creators to earn money from their videos.
Another reason for IGTV’s decline was the lack of discoverability. The platform made it difficult for users to find new content, and the algorithm prioritized videos from accounts that users already followed. This made it challenging for new creators to gain traction and for existing creators to reach a wider audience.
The Impact of Algorithm Changes
In 2020, Instagram made significant changes to its algorithm, which further impacted IGTV’s popularity. The algorithm changes prioritized Reels, Instagram’s short-form video feature, over IGTV videos. This meant that IGTV videos were no longer displayed prominently in users’ feeds, making it even harder for creators to get their content seen.
The Current State Of IGTV
So, is IGTV still a thing? The answer is yes, but its popularity has significantly declined since its launch. While some creators still use the platform, it is no longer the go-to destination for video content that it once was.
In 2020, Instagram announced that it would be merging IGTV with Instagram Video, a feature that allows users to upload videos up to 60 minutes. The merge was seen as a way to simplify the video-sharing experience on Instagram and to make it easier for users to find and watch videos.
What Does The Future Hold For IGTV?
While IGTV is no longer the popular platform it once was, it still has a dedicated user base. However, its future is uncertain. Instagram has not announced any plans to discontinue IGTV, but it has not made any significant updates to the platform in recent years.
Some speculate that IGTV may eventually be phased out in favor of Reels, which has become increasingly popular since its launch. However, others believe that IGTV still has a place on the platform, particularly for creators who want to share longer-form content with their audience.
The Benefits of Using IGTV
Despite its decline in popularity, IGTV still offers several benefits for creators. One of the main benefits is the ability to share longer-form content with their audience. IGTV videos can be up to 60 minutes long, making it an ideal platform for creators who want to share in-depth content, such as tutorials, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage.
Another benefit of using IGTV is the ability to share exclusive content with followers. IGTV videos can be shared exclusively with followers, making it a great way for creators to reward their loyal audience with exclusive content.
Alternatives To IGTV
If you’re a creator who is looking for alternatives to IGTV, there are several options available. One of the most popular alternatives is YouTube, which offers a robust monetization program and a large audience.
Another alternative is TikTok, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. TikTok offers a short-form video feature that is similar to Instagram Reels, but it also offers a longer-form video feature called TikTok Live.
Comparing IGTV To Other Video-Sharing Platforms
So, how does IGTV compare to other video-sharing platforms? Here’s a comparison of IGTV with YouTube and TikTok:
| Platform | Monetization Options | Video Length | Discoverability |
|---|---|---|---|
| IGTV | Limited | Up to 60 minutes | Poor |
| YouTube | Robust | Up to 12 hours | Good |
| TikTok | Limited | Up to 10 minutes | Good |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while IGTV is no longer the popular platform it once was, it still has a dedicated user base and offers several benefits for creators. However, its future is uncertain, and it may eventually be phased out in favor of Reels.
If you’re a creator who is looking for alternatives to IGTV, there are several options available, including YouTube and TikTok. Ultimately, the choice of which platform to use will depend on your specific needs and goals.
Final Thoughts
IGTV may not be the go-to destination for video content that it once was, but it still has a place on the platform. Whether you’re a creator who wants to share longer-form content with your audience or a user who wants to watch exclusive videos from your favorite creators, IGTV is still worth checking out.
However, if you’re looking for a more robust video-sharing experience, you may want to consider alternatives like YouTube or TikTok. Ultimately, the choice of which platform to use will depend on your specific needs and goals.
Key Takeaways:
- IGTV is still a thing, but its popularity has significantly declined since its launch.
- The platform offers several benefits for creators, including the ability to share longer-form content and exclusive content with followers.
- IGTV’s future is uncertain, and it may eventually be phased out in favor of Reels.
- Alternatives to IGTV include YouTube and TikTok, which offer more robust monetization options and better discoverability.
- Ultimately, the choice of which platform to use will depend on your specific needs and goals.
What Is IGTV And How Does It Work?
IGTV is a video-sharing feature on Instagram that allows users to upload longer-form videos up to 60 minutes. It was launched in 2018 as a way for creators to share more in-depth content with their followers. IGTV videos can be uploaded from the Instagram app or from a computer, and they can be shared on a user’s Instagram feed, IGTV channel, or on the IGTV app.
IGTV videos can be monetized with ads, and creators can also earn money through IGTV’s Partner Program. The program allows creators to earn a share of the ad revenue generated by their videos. IGTV also has features such as shopping, polls, and quizzes, which allow creators to engage with their followers and drive sales.
Is IGTV Still A Thing In 2023?
Yes, IGTV is still a thing in 2023. Although it may not be as popular as it was when it first launched, IGTV is still a viable platform for creators to share their content. Instagram has continued to update and improve IGTV, adding new features and functionality to the platform. Many creators still use IGTV to share their content, and it remains a popular way for users to discover new videos and creators.
However, it’s worth noting that Instagram has shifted its focus towards Reels, a shorter-form video feature that is similar to TikTok. Reels have become incredibly popular, and many creators have shifted their focus towards creating Reels instead of IGTV content. Despite this, IGTV is still a valuable platform for creators who want to share longer-form content with their followers.
What Are The Benefits Of Using IGTV?
One of the main benefits of using IGTV is that it allows creators to share longer-form content with their followers. This can be especially useful for creators who want to share more in-depth content, such as tutorials, reviews, or vlogs. IGTV also allows creators to monetize their videos with ads, which can be a lucrative way to earn money.
Another benefit of IGTV is that it allows creators to build a community around their content. IGTV has features such as comments, likes, and shares, which allow creators to engage with their followers and build a loyal following. IGTV also has features such as shopping and polls, which allow creators to drive sales and engage with their followers in new and innovative ways.
How Do I Upload A Video To IGTV?
Uploading a video to IGTV is a relatively straightforward process. To upload a video, simply open the Instagram app and navigate to the IGTV tab. From there, tap the “+” icon to start uploading a video. You can upload a video from your camera roll or record a new video directly from the app.
Once you’ve selected your video, you can add a title, description, and tags to help your video get discovered. You can also choose to share your video on your Instagram feed or IGTV channel. If you want to monetize your video with ads, you’ll need to make sure that your video meets Instagram’s monetization requirements.
Can I Monetize My IGTV Videos?
Yes, you can monetize your IGTV videos with ads. To monetize your videos, you’ll need to meet Instagram’s monetization requirements, which include having at least 1,000 followers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 60 days. You’ll also need to comply with Instagram’s community guidelines and terms of service.
Once you’ve met the requirements, you can apply to join the IGTV Partner Program, which allows creators to earn a share of the ad revenue generated by their videos. You can also earn money through IGTV’s shopping feature, which allows creators to tag products in their videos and earn a commission on sales.
How Do I Grow My IGTV Channel?
Growing your IGTV channel requires a combination of creating high-quality content, engaging with your followers, and promoting your channel. To create high-quality content, focus on creating videos that are informative, entertaining, or inspiring. Use good production values, such as good lighting and sound, and edit your videos to make them engaging and polished.
To engage with your followers, respond to comments and messages, and use features such as polls and quizzes to encourage interaction. You can also promote your channel by sharing your videos on your Instagram feed, Facebook, and other social media platforms. Collaborate with other creators to reach new audiences, and use Instagram’s features such as shopping and ads to drive traffic to your channel.
Is IGTV Worth Using In 2023?
Whether or not IGTV is worth using in 2023 depends on your goals and target audience. If you’re a creator who wants to share longer-form content with your followers, IGTV can be a valuable platform. IGTV also offers features such as monetization, shopping, and polls, which can help you earn money and engage with your followers.
However, if you’re looking for a platform with a large and engaged audience, you may want to consider other options such as YouTube or TikTok. IGTV’s audience is smaller than some other video-sharing platforms, and it may not be the best choice for creators who are just starting out. Ultimately, whether or not IGTV is worth using in 2023 depends on your individual goals and needs.