Instagram is a juggernaut of a social networking app. In
fact, it has more than one billion users. The app, which was initially created
as a personal recreational tool, quickly expanded into a powerful marketing
tool. Not only is it a thriving social media platform, but it has also changed
how people interact with one another.
The advent of powerful in-phone cameras has shifted the
focus of mobile apps from text to image and video. While the first iPhone
launched in 2007, the first iPhone clone, the Samsung Galaxy S3, was introduced
in 2010. This new wave of smartphones opened up the doors for social media to
move from desktop to mobile. However, the biggest shift has been the human
impulse to communicate and connect.
For example, in 2010, a Stanford graduate named Kevin
Systrom created a social media website aimed at sharing photos and videos.
Eventually, the site's popularity grew so large that it was purchased by
Facebook. Despite this purchase, it has received plenty of criticism. There
have been a few technological innovations, including the ability to upload and
schedule posts, and the introduction of paid advertisements.
Aside from the obvious social network incarnations like
Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, there are several new competitors popping up
left and right. Among the lesser known is TikTok, which is on the rise since it
was introduced in 2010 and boasts more than 332 million daily active users.
Other notable contenders include Tumblr, which is widely
regarded as the leading social network for teens. The site features content
geared towards young adults, as well as the capability to form online
communities and participate in cultural dialogues. Another entrant to the
social media space is Pinterest. Its visual pin board concept has gained a
large following.
Social networks in general are inherently faddish. Although
no one platform can do everything, there are several options that will
eventually surpass their predecessors. Some may go the way of the dinosaurs,
while others will continue to thrive.
While there are no guarantees, it is safe to say that the
social media world is in for a change. As the industry evolves, more powerful
companies will have a leg up over the competition. But, there are several other
enlightened entities that have emerged to challenge these incumbents. If they
can make a dent in the market share of their arch rivals, they might just be
able to win back the throne of social media supremacy.
The evolution of social media is a complex subject, but the
most important thing to remember is that there is no such thing as a monopoly.
As technology advances, social media platforms will need to figure out how to
adapt to end users if they want to survive and prosper. Even the most
established giants will have to grapple with the ever-changing demographics of
their target audience. Ultimately, the social media future will be determined
by the imaginations of its stakeholders.
