Everything you need to know about Instagram Lite

If you’re an avid Instagram user, you may have heard the term Instagram Lite. Depending on your location, you may have even switched to the app already. But don’t worry if you haven’t. The concept is very new so there’s probably a lot you don’t know about it. That’s why we are here to tell you all you need to know.

What is Instagram Lite?

First things first, let’s cover the basics. Instagram Lite is an Android app that is much smaller in size than the original Instagram app. This allows users with different cellular and internet connections to reap the benefits of the app without experiencing any issues. The app was developed to make it more accessible for emerging markets.

Speaking of the app, Tzach Hadar, Director of Product Management at Facebook Tel Aviv said:

“Our teams build these lightweight versions of our apps for people with low connectivity or limited data plans because our basic premise is to leave no one behind.”

What has stayed the same?

The app still contains many features we know and love, including:

• Photo and video sharing
• Stories, stickers and gifs
• The explore page and recommendation algorithms
• Messaging/DMs
• Reels
• Dark Mode.

Features that require a lot of data or connection aren’t part of the app, such as:

• Animations when switching between Stories
• Story filters and AR filters
• Swipe-to-type controls
• Going live
• Shopping and product tabs.

Instagram Lite is a small and fast app that works on all networks. The app is ideal if you don’t have much space on your phone for the full version. If you already have an Instagram account, you won’t have to create a new account for the Lite version.

Instagram Lite was first launched in 2018 but was pulled from the Google Play Store in May 2020. The app re-launched again this year, having undergone major improvements to make it more appealing.

Where can Instagram Lite be accessed currently (September 2021)?

The app began rolling out in March this year to over 170 countries. Most of the countries are those that have emerging economies or regions with poor quality internet connection. India is the biggest country that has access to Instagram Lite at the moment. The developers behind the app have plans to roll out the app to more countries in the future. At present, Instagram Lite is only available for Android devices. So, if you’re an iOS user, you’re out of luck for the time-being.

What are the main differences?

There aren’t huge differences between the two apps. For the most part, Instagram and Instagram Lite look and function the same. The biggest difference is the performance, only because Instagram Lite isn’t as powerful as the original app. Let’s look at what else has changed.

1. App Size

Judging by the app name, you’ve probably guessed it’s smaller in size than the original version. The main reason for making a smaller version is down to how demanding Instagram can be on your phone. More so if you don’t have much storage or a weak data connection.

The download size for the Instagram app is 30-80MB, depending on your phone. The number only increases when you store the app as it uses a lot of data and cache. Instagram Lite takes up significantly less room on your phone and doesn’t use as much data.

2. App features

When Instagram Lite first launched in 2018, it was lacking many of the most used features. Users were unable to send direct messages, or record and post videos. Taking away the main aspects of Instagram. The new version has a lot more to offer, making it more appealing to users.

With Instagram Lite, users are unable to customise their chat theme. Just being able to direct message is a big win though. Sadly, the app doesn’t allow any live features but that is to be expected in a smaller app.

3. Supported languages

As we said earlier, one of the biggest countries that has access to Instagram Lite is India. Instagram recognised this area of users struggling with older smartphones with less storage space and limited data.

To cater for Indian users, Instagram Lite introduced a bunch of local languages, including:

• Bengali
• Hindi
• Malayalam
• Tamil
• Kannada
• Gujarati
• Marathi
• Punjabi
• Telegu.

Will the app impact global social media marketing?

Marketers should be mindful about the quality of the photos and videos they upload on Instagram Lite. The app is designed to save space and requires minimal data usage.

Your social media advertising strategy might need to change to align with the app. You might focus on high-quality copy and influencer partnerships in new countries to attract attention and increase engagement. These are just a couple of things to consider if you decide to switch over to Instagram Lite.

Should you switch to Instagram Lite?

If you have a smartphone with plenty of storage and often a good internet connection, there’s no reason to switch. Switching when you don’t need to may mean missing out on features you enjoy from the original app.

If you’re struggling with storage space and don’t want to upgrade to a newer phone, its worthwhile downloading Instagram Lite. You should consider Instagram Lite if you have a basic data plan or poor internet connection. The app will demand less data overall.

To sum up

• Instagram Lite is a smaller version of the original app, Instagram. It is designed for users who don’t have much storage space or have a poor internet connection. Its aim is to make the app accessible to everyone, no matter their data plan or storage space.

• Instagram Lite still contains many popular features, meaning you’re not missing out on much by switching to this app. You can still post photos, videos and stories, direct message others and view the explore page amongst other things.

• The app is available in over 170 countries and is most popular in India. It is expected the app will roll out to more countries in the near future. Right now, the app is only available to Android users. It is not known if it will be available for iOS.

• Whilst the app looks and functions the same, there are some minor differences. These include the app size, app features and the additional languages tailored to India.

• You should consider how your content will impact users of Instagram Lite. Can your content still be viewed the same way as those who use the original app?

• You could switch to Instagram Lite if you’re struggling with storage space, poor data or internet connection.

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