Instagram mimics TikTok with 'Vertical Stories' prototype

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It looks like Instagram is looking to copy another social network. The company confirms it is in the early stages of prototyping Vertical Stories, which will give the app a more TikTok-like look. 

Instagram isn't testing this feature right now, but the code for the change is in development, as spotted by developer Alessandro Paluzzi.

TechCrunch pointed out that if Instagram decides to pursue this idea, then we might see the social network shift away from static content (such as photos or reshared Feed posts on Stories) to make way for videos. It could prioritize videos over photos, too, to better compete with TikTok. 

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Instagram lets you restore recently deleted posts

Source: Instagram

Instagram is launching a new feature to help you gain access to content you deleted. The aptly-named Recently Deleted allows you to review and restore deleted content in the Instagram app. The social network also said it added protections to prevent hackers from compromising your account and deleting posts you've shared.

Now, Instagram will ask you to verify that you're the rightful account holder when permanently deleting or restoring content from the Recently Deleted folder. 

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Instagram Stories on desktop gets a new look

Instagram is making it easier to view Stories when you're on your computer. You can now see clickable previews of Stories beside the one you're currently looking at. According to Instagram, this redesign should make it easier to navigate than the previous look. The social media site started testing this revamp earlier in the month, with plans to release it to all users soon.

Source: Engadget

Google experiment surfaces Instagram, TikTok videos in Search

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Google isn't new to indexing videos on its Search platform. But the focus was mostly on desktop-oriented video sites like its own YouTube. Now, the search giant is shifting the focus to the mobile, social media space. Google is experimenting with a new search feature that highlights Instagram and TikTok in a "Short Videos" carousel. It only works for specific terms and shows easy-to-tap thumbnails for relevant videos.

The test is still in its pilot stage, and it works on either your browser or the Google Search app on Android and iOS. Google didn't say if or when it will introduce the carousel to more searches and users. It's a sensible move from the company because if you can find the video you're looking for right from the browser, you're more likely to stay on Google's pages and consequently generate ad money. It also helps save time because it makes it easier to surface videos you might miss on those platforms.

Source: Engadget