What is IGTV (Instagram TV)?
IGTV, short for Instagram TV, is a standalone video application created by Instagram in 2018. It allows users to upload and watch long-form, vertical videos on their mobile devices. Unlike the traditional Instagram feed, which limits videos to one minute in length, IGTV videos can be up to 60 minutes long for verified accounts and 10 minutes long for regular accounts. IGTV is designed to compete with other video platforms like YouTube and Facebook Watch, offering a new way for users to consume and create video content on Instagram.
How does IGTV work?
IGTV can be accessed through the Instagram app or as a standalone app. When users open the IGTV app, they are greeted with a series of videos from accounts they follow, as well as recommended videos based on their interests. Users can also search for specific channels or browse through different categories like “For You,” “Following,” “Popular,” and “Continue Watching.”
To upload a video to IGTV, users simply need to click on the “+” icon and select a video from their camera roll. They can then add a title, description, and cover image before publishing the video to their channel. Viewers can like, comment, and share IGTV videos, as well as save them to watch later.
Who can use IGTV?
IGTV is available to all Instagram users, including individuals, brands, and influencers. Anyone with an Instagram account can create a channel and start uploading videos to IGTV. However, accounts must follow Instagram’s community guidelines and terms of service to use the platform.
Verified accounts and accounts with a large following have the ability to upload longer videos, up to 60 minutes in length. Regular accounts can upload videos up to 10 minutes long, with the option to post longer videos in multiple parts.
What are the benefits of using IGTV?
There are several benefits to using IGTV for both creators and viewers. For creators, IGTV provides a new platform to showcase their creativity and engage with their audience in a more immersive way. The longer video format allows for more in-depth storytelling and the opportunity to share tutorials, behind-the-scenes footage, and other types of content that may not fit within the constraints of a traditional Instagram post.
For viewers, IGTV offers a more personalized and curated video experience. Users can discover new content from accounts they follow, as well as explore videos from recommended channels and categories. The vertical format of IGTV videos is also optimized for mobile viewing, making it easy for users to watch videos on the go.
How can businesses utilize IGTV for marketing purposes?
Businesses can leverage IGTV as a powerful marketing tool to reach their target audience and promote their products or services. By creating engaging and informative video content, businesses can showcase their brand personality, share valuable information, and connect with customers on a deeper level.
Some ways that businesses can use IGTV for marketing purposes include:
– Sharing product tutorials and demonstrations
– Behind-the-scenes footage of company events or day-to-day operations
– Interviews with employees, customers, or industry experts
– Q&A sessions to answer common questions or address customer concerns
– Promotions and giveaways to drive engagement and sales
By consistently posting high-quality content on IGTV, businesses can build brand awareness, increase customer loyalty, and drive traffic to their website or online store.
What are some best practices for creating content on IGTV?
When creating content for IGTV, it’s important to keep in mind the unique features and limitations of the platform. Here are some best practices for creating engaging and effective videos on IGTV:
– Keep videos vertical: IGTV is designed for vertical viewing, so make sure to shoot and edit your videos in a vertical format.
– Grab viewers’ attention: Use eye-catching visuals, compelling titles, and engaging thumbnails to capture viewers’ interest from the start.
– Tell a story: Create a narrative arc or structure for your videos to keep viewers engaged and interested in watching until the end.
– Be authentic: Show your brand personality and connect with your audience on a personal level by being genuine and transparent in your videos.
– Use captions and subtitles: Make your videos accessible to a wider audience by adding captions or subtitles for viewers who may be watching without sound.
– Promote your videos: Share your IGTV videos on your Instagram feed, stories, and other social media platforms to reach a larger audience and drive engagement.
By following these best practices and experimenting with different types of content, businesses can create compelling videos that resonate with their audience and help them achieve their marketing goals on IGTV.