Instagram is a popular social media platform that allows users to share photos and videos, connect with others, and discover new content. With its visually engaging and diverse features, Instagram has become a vital tool for communication in the digital era.
Instagram was founded in 2010 by Kevin Systrom. Kevin was a Stanford grad and previously worked for Google. He originally named the app Burbn because he had an interest in whiskey and bourbon! At first, this newfound app made for a way for people to connect around the world by publicizing each check in whenever someone traveled somewhere new. After two weeks of negotiations with venture firms, he earned $500,000 in funding.
While he was in search of a team, he found Mike Krieger. Mike was also a Stanford grad and was working on a social media platform called Meebo. Eventually, these two men realized that Burbn was too similar to Foursquare, which was an already well established app. So, they changed the app and the name to Instagram and it was launched on October 6th 2010. 
Fun Fact: Instagram comes from the words ‘instant camera’ and ‘telegram!’
Instagram spread in popularity fast, gaining one million users in three months and two million users in the following month. In April 2012, Instagram was opened to android users and gained another fifty million users. Also in 2012, the app was bought by Facebook for one billion dollars. Facebook bought the app because the target audience overlapped and Facebook didn’t want the Instagram to become a threat.
In 2013, video sharing functions, direct messages(DM’s), and sponsored posts became introduced. This allowed people to post and share, while also rebranding Instagram as an advertising platform. 
The app was used for communication through photos, including posts and stories, videos, and messaging. Instagram is also used as an advertising platform for businesses to use. This made a new way for brands to reach audiences through sponsored posts. Many other app accommodations revolutionized the communication process, affecting Instagram as well. Tiktok’s short videos led to the creation of Instagram reels and Snapchat’s stories led to Instagram adding this feature in 2016. Over the years, Instagram introduced these features which enhanced its functionality and kept users engaged. 
Instagram serves as a powerful communication technology due to its visually-driven nature, which allows users to convey messages, emotions, and stories through photos and videos. Captions, comments, and direct messaging encourage interactions among individuals and groups worldwide. Additionally, Instagram's algorithmic feed and discovery features foster community engagement and collaboration. Overall, Instagram's combination of visual storytelling, accessibility, and engagement features makes it a dynamic and effective communication technology in the digital age.
As of 2022, Instagram stands as one of the most popular social media platforms globally, with over a billion monthly active users. Its influence extends beyond personal use, with businesses, influencers, and brands utilizing it as a vital marketing tool.
For information about this communication technology, I listened to Courtney Faber's presentation and looked at this Britannica article.
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