(Image source from: Indianexpress.com)
Meta is reportedly working on a new separate app that aims to compete with Snapchat in the area of temporary messaging. A report states that the company has confirmed the creation of an internal version of the app, called Instants, which will let users send and receive photos and videos that disappear after viewing. The social media platform owned by Meta is also said to be creating a new feature for Instagram that shares the same name and has similar capabilities. The standalone app being developed is thought to have a concept similar to that of Snapchat, allowing users to send temporary pictures. This has been verified by a Meta representative who spoke to Business Insider, confirming that it is still in prototype development and not being tested by the public. According to mobile developer Alessandro Paluzzi, who analyzes apps, the new app by Meta is named Instants. This app was reportedly found on the Also from Meta section of Instagram, where it was indicated as a way to share temporary photos with friends.
The Meta representative also stated that the social media platform is trialing another new feature called Instants. Previously named Shots, this feature is said to be undergoing a limited test in “some countries worldwide. ” According to the report, this upcoming feature enables users to send temporary media in their direct messages. The images will vanish once opened and will no longer be accessible after 24 hours post-sending. Instagram is reported to specify that Instants can only be sent to followers who you also follow back, and they cannot be modified. This is not the first instance of the Meta-owned platform testing a feature related to disappearing messages. There are already various features in Instagram's direct messaging system that allow messages or media to vanish after a set time. For instance, Instagram offers features like “View Once” and Vanish Mode for sending temporary photos and videos. This step is anticipated to bring Instagram closer to Snapchat regarding temporary messaging. However, Meta has not yet disclosed any plans to launch the feature or how the app would be used if it moves past the prototype phase. Like other tech companies, Meta is recognized for developing and assessing numerous internal prototypes, many of which do not proceed beyond internal testing or limited use.
