But then, it happened. Instagram launched an Android app.
Woohoo! went the chorus of Android smartphone users who had privately (or publicly) been longing for the day when we too could enjoy the fun of sharing photos on one of the hottest, growing networks. Now we could join in the fun of sharing images and use photo-altering filters to change the look a bit on a whim. Admittedly, I thought this was going to be a little silly based on the images that I had previously seen in my Twitter and Facebook streams from friends (with iPhones) sharing their Instagram photos. But that was before I got to give it a go on the playground.
I was sold! The photos, filters, network, tagging, commenting, likes, etc. are wicked fun. I now completely get why Arik Hanson was so impressed with Instagram based on some informative and fun posts and from seeing his photos myself.
It's been just over a month since news spread far and wide about Facebook's acquisition of Instagram for a staggering $1 billion. After the announcement, there was much gnashing of teeth and tearing of garments by people lamenting Instagram selling-out to Facebook and what it might do to the photo-sharing service. But then again $1 billion for a tool with no ad-revenue was and is still pretty impressive for the Instagram team.
So what does this have to do with public relations? I'm interested in some examples of ways professional communicators can use Instagram, but right now I'm in the experimenting phase. I'd love to know what you think either personal or professional use of Instagram. As always, the comments are yours.
Photo credit: Me, via Instagram because I love UNT and the Mean Green.
