Instagram has announced that it will be removing the live stream shopping feature from its platform. The move comes as part of Instagram’s efforts to simplify its shopping experience for both creators and users. The live stream shopping feature allowed creators to sell products to their followers during a live stream, but Instagram has found that this feature is not widely used.
The removal of this feature will take effect from the end of July 2021. However, creators will still be able to use other shopping features on the platform, such as product tags and the shopping tab on Instagram profiles. Instagram will continue to explore new ways to enhance its shopping experience and provide users with more convenient ways to shop on the platform.
Instagram removes live streaming shopping features on 14 February 2023.
Implications to Marketers:
Marketers will need to adapt their Instagram marketing strategies as the live stream shopping feature is being removed. Instead, they can leverage other shopping features on the platform, such as product tags and the shopping tab on Instagram profiles, to showcase their products and services. This provides marketers with an opportunity to reach a wider audience and drive more sales, as Instagram continues to expand its e-commerce capabilities. The removal of the live stream shopping feature also indicates that Instagram is focusing on simplifying its shopping experience for both creators and users, so marketers can expect to see more user-friendly shopping features in the future.