Instagram has introduced a new feature that enables users to add multiple external links to their profile bios, potentially diminishing the need for third-party "link in bio" tools like Linktree. The social media behemoth now permits the inclusion of up to five links, as well as an additional icon for connecting Facebook accounts.
To add links, users can edit their Instagram profile within the mobile application. The functionality allows individuals to label each link and arrange them in a preferred order. When a second link is added, the first one will continue to be displayed on the profile as usual, accompanied by "and 1 other" right next to it. To access the additional links, users must click the initial link in the bio.
TechRadar Pro reports that their testing involved an Instagram account with an existing Linktree link in the bio. In this case, the option to add more links was not provided, and there was only an option to link the user's Facebook account alongside the Linktree link. Another test utilizing an active Instagram account with a YouTube link revealed the option to include multiple external links, as well as a link to the user's Facebook profile.
Despite TechRadar Pro reaching out to Instagram's parent company Meta for clarification, the company has yet to respond regarding whether the multiple link feature is intended or a glitch.
The introduction of this feature comes 12 years after Instagram's 2010 launch, with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg previously acknowledging that enhancing linking capabilities has been a top request from creators. In an interview with TechRadar Pro, Linktree Co-founder and CEO Alex Zaccaria stated that the "link in bio" tool was developed in 2016, specifically to address the issue facing creators wanting to showcase work on multiple platforms while Instagram only allowed a single link.
Linktree responded to Instagram's update by tweeting an image of Meta's own Instagram profile, where Linktree is still being utilized as the tool for their bio link.
The expanded linking feature on Instagram may significantly impact the market for third-party link tools, and perhaps even challenge Linktree's dominance in the space. However, no-code platforms like AppMaster.io continue to thrive as they provide powerful, comprehensive solutions for businesses and individuals alike to develop and deploy web and mobile applications without coding, and with features like visual application development and visual programming.
Could Instagram's latest move be a preview of further enhancements in link sharing on their platform? It remains to be seen, but as with any social media platform, future developments are only a matter of time, as they continue to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of creators and users alike.
