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Introduction: Is Instagram Indian App?
Instagram is one of the most popular and influential social media platforms in the world, with over 2 billion downloads and millions of users. But is Instagram an Indian app? The answer is no. Instagram is not an Indian app, but an American app. Here are some facts and reasons why:
Instagram’s Origin and Ownership
Instagram was created by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, two American software engineers who met at Stanford University. Systrom had the idea of creating a photo-sharing app that would allow users to apply filters and effects to their pictures. Krieger joined him as a co-founder and helped him develop the app.
It was launched in October 2010 as an iOS app, and it quickly gained popularity among iPhone users. It was named after the combination of “instant camera” and “telegram”. The app’s main feature was to allow users to share square-shaped photos with a retro look, inspired by Polaroid cameras.
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In April 2012, Facebook (now Meta Platforms) acquired Instagram for approximately $1 billion in cash and stock. This was one of the biggest deals in the history of social media, and it gave Facebook access to Instagram’s user base and technology. Facebook also allowed Instagram to operate independently and retain its brand identity.
In 2012, Instagram also released its Android version, which expanded its reach to more users around the world. In 2013, Instagram added video-sharing capabilities, allowing users to upload short clips of up to 15 seconds. In 2016, Instagram introduced Stories, a feature that lets users post ephemeral content that disappears after 24 hours. In 2020, Instagram launched Reels, a feature that lets users create and share short videos with music and effects.
Related: Instagram is no longer a photo sharing app (Explained)
Instagram’s Presence and Popularity in India
Despite being an American app, Instagram has a huge presence and popularity in India. According to Statista, India is the largest market for Instagram, with over 229 million users as of January 2023. The United States has the second largest user base with over 143 million users.
The figure given below shows the countries with the most number of Instagram users. (The given data given is in millions)
Instagram is especially popular among young Indians, who use it to express themselves, connect with others, and discover new trends and opportunities. Almost all Indian celebrities, influencers, brands, and businesses also use Instagram to engage with their fans and customers and to promote their products and services. Some of the most followed Indian accounts on Instagram are Virat Kohli (cricketer), Priyanka Chopra (actress), Deepika Padukone (actress), Narendra Modi (prime minister), and Alia Bhatt (actress).
Also Read: Is TikTok Indian App or a Chinese Spy Tool? Here’s What You Need to Know
Instagram also supports various Indian languages, such as Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and Malayalam. Users can choose their preferred language from the settings menu and enjoy the app in their native tongue.
Conclusion: Is Instagram Indian?
Therefore, it is clear that Instagram is not an Indian app, but an American one that was created by two American software engineers and acquired by Facebook. However, Instagram has a large and loyal fan base in India, especially among youth. It has reels and also supports various Indian languages and cultures, making it more accessible and appealing to Indian users.
What do you think about Instagram? Do you use it or not? Why or why not? Let me know in the comments below. Thank you for reading! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Instagram banned in India?
Instagram is not banned in India, but it is subject to some restrictions and regulations by the Indian government.
For example, in 2021, the Indian government also asked Instagram and other social media platforms to identify the originators of unlawful messages that could threaten national security or public order.
How can I use Instagram in India?
You can use Instagram in India by downloading the app from the App Store or Google Play Store or visiting the website at Instagram.
You can also choose your preferred language from the settings menu and enjoy the app in your native tongue. Instagram supports various Indian languages, such as Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Urdu, and Malayalam.
What are some of the features and benefits of using Instagram in India?
Some of the features and benefits of using Instagram in India are:
- You can share your photos and videos with your friends and followers, and apply filters and effects to make them more attractive and expressive.
- You can discover new trends and opportunities in various fields and industries, such as fashion, beauty, travel, education, entertainment, etc.
- You can connect with your favorite celebrities, influencers, brands, and businesses, and get updates on their latest news and activities.
- You can create and watch short videos with music and effects using Reels, a feature that lets you showcase your creativity and talent.
- You can post ephemeral content that disappears after 24 hours using Stories, a feature that lets you share your daily moments and highlights.
- You can chat with your friends and family using Direct Messages, a feature that lets you send texts, photos, videos, voice messages, stickers, etc.
- You can shop for products and services using Shopping, a feature that lets you browse and buy from your favorite brands and businesses.
What are some of the challenges and risks of using Instagram in India?
Some of the challenges and risks of using Instagram in India are:
- You may encounter inappropriate or harmful content that could violate your rights or offend your sensibilities. For example, you may see content that promotes violence, hate speech, bullying, harassment, nudity, pornography, etc.
- You may face misinformation or fake news that could mislead you or influence your opinions. For example, you may see content that spreads rumors, propaganda, hoaxes, conspiracy theories, etc.
- You may experience data breaches or privacy violations that could expose your personal information or compromise your security. For example, you may see content that steals or leaks your data, hacks your account, impersonates you, etc.
To avoid these challenges and risks, you should use Instagram responsibly and safely.
Hi, I’m Deep, a content writer who loves to write about computer-related topics. I have a passion for technology and enjoy exploring the latest trends and innovations in the PC industry. I have written for various websites and blogs, covering topics such as hardware, software, gaming, security, and more. I aim to provide informative, engaging, and helpful content for my readers. When I’m not writing, I like to play video games, watch movies, or read books.