Instagram Removes Swipe-Up Links: What You Need to Know

Instagram's Transition from Swipe-Up Links to Link Stickers

Beginning August 30th, Instagram will be phasing out the “swipe-up” link feature within Instagram Stories. This functionality previously provided businesses and prominent content creators with a direct method to guide viewers to external websites. The intention was to facilitate further engagement with products, articles, services, or any promotional content.

Introducing the Link Sticker

In its place, Instagram is introducing the Link Sticker. Users who formerly had access to the swipe-up feature will now utilize this new tool, according to the company’s announcement.

Initial testing of the Link Sticker commenced in June with a limited user base. However, a wider rollout is scheduled to begin on August 30th.

The initial discovery of this change was made by app researcher Jane Manchun Wong, who identified a notification informing creators about the discontinuation of swipe-up links.

Implementation and Eligibility

Instagram will begin converting existing swipe-up link access to the Link Sticker starting August 30, 2021. This conversion will encompass both verified businesses and creators, as well as those who meet the follower count requirement.

Although Instagram does not officially disclose the specific follower threshold, it is generally understood to be a minimum of 10,000 followers.

Advantages of the Link Sticker

The new Link Sticker presents several improvements over the previous “swipe-up” link functionality.

Notably, it grants creators enhanced control over their Stories’ presentation.

Similar to existing interactive stickers like polls, questions, and location tags, the Link Sticker allows for customization of styles, resizing, and placement within the Story to maximize viewer engagement.

Furthermore, viewers can now directly react to and reply to Stories featuring the Link Sticker, mirroring the interaction available on other Story content. This feedback mechanism was previously unavailable with the swipe-up link, as Instagram has pointed out.

Future Access and Safety Considerations

Currently, there are no immediate changes planned regarding eligibility for the Link Sticker. However, Instagram is evaluating the possibility of expanding link access to a broader range of accounts in the future.

This decision requires careful consideration, as wider access could potentially compromise the app’s security and integrity. The Link Sticker, if exploited, could be utilized for the dissemination of misinformation or spam.

The transition to the Link Sticker represents an initial step towards potentially broadening link-sharing capabilities within Stories, should Instagram decide to proceed along that path.

Alignment with Instagram’s Creative Vision

This shift from a gesture-based action to a sticker-based feature aligns with Instagram’s evolving creative direction. The platform is increasingly incorporating interactive elements into posts through the use of stickers.

The new Link Sticker will join a suite of existing stickers, including those for donations, music, and polls, enhancing the interactive experience within Instagram Stories.