According to the latest leaks shared by Lia Haberman in her Substack newsletter ICYMI, Instagram is stepping up its game by developing a new text-based application that could go head-to-head with Twitter.
The leaked information doesn’t officially name the project, only referring to it as “Instagram’s new text-based application for conversations.” However, Haberman reports that insiders call it P92 or, alternatively, Barcelona.
The new venture allows users to log in using their existing Instagram credentials. All existing followers, usernames, bios, and verification will seamlessly migrate from the main Instagram app. Much like Twitter, the application will have a feed where users can create text posts, the limit is 500 characters, with the ability to attach links, photos, and videos.
Early peeks at two screenshots reveal a striking resemblance to a blend of Instagram and Twitter. Intriguingly, Meta, Instagram’s parent company, seems to prioritize moderation controls from the start. Settings to control who can reply to and mention a user’s account are built into the platform, with blocked accounts on Instagram carrying over to the new app.
While Meta has so far declined to comment on the leaks, it had previously expressed plans for exploring decentralized social networking. “We believe there is an opportunity for a separate space where creators and public figures can share timely updates about their interests,” they commented in March. This development may well be the first step in that direction.
Instagram launching a Twitter clone with a few key advantages
— Alex Ha (@alex__ha12) May 19, 2023
– funnel IG live users -> text, taking the new broadcast feature to a new product
– more creator-friendly, as most creators are already on IG
– no immediate monetization pressure
thanks @liahaberman for sharing! pic.twitter.com/W4igmUlUf9