THE WHAT? Instagram has confirmed it is developing a new Vertical Instagram Stories feature, similar to the vertical navigation format adopted by TikTok. 

THE DETAILS While the social media app currently uses a horizontal tap and swipe function for its stories feature, the move mirrors the way users interact online in most circumstances such as Google search and Facebook. 

THE WHY? The move is a drastic change for Instagram, which has favoured the horizontal swipe. However, the new format is said to likely promote an evolution of content from static images and reshares into an increase in video uploads. 

However, it may be a while before the function is available to users, with Instagram telling TechCrunch, “This is an early prototype and is not currently testing on Instagram.”

The social media site is also slated to be reviewing ways to tidy up its feed, which includes reels, stories, IGTV and video content, with Instagram Head Adam Mosseri telling The Verge that it was looking to simplify and consolidate ideas.