Instagram On The Web

Instagram has single handedly dominated mobile devices with its easy to use platform and social capabilities for entertainment. Since Facebook's acquisition of Instagram, things basically remained the same until now. Instagram has now provided regular web capabilities for Instagram so users can now access and share photos from any device with Internet, but why is this important?

When Facebook purchased Instagram for one billion dollars, Instagram was not monetized and has not been monetized to date. There were limited options for monetization that would not hinder the current user experience. Placing advertisements on the mobile platform would surely destroy the current user experience on mobile devices, but not so much on a web platform. This is why I believe that the main purpose for Instagram gravitating to the web is to begin placing advertisements in that space instead. Although the web platform and interface is currently advertisement free, I suspect that prolonged use and likability for the new option will precede any placements.

In order for users and the public to be more accepting to advertisements on Instagram, unique ideas and promotions will have to be used to ease the transition. History has proven that creative ads and initiatives are usually accepted more than bland conventional methods. This may also be another opportunity for an additional integration with Facebook. Public criticism was very high when it came to the merger and Instagram claims a high demand for web presence so any changes on the micro or macro level will become news.

At the end of the day, users simply want convenient access to Instagram from any device or location. Facebook has been notorious for making sudden and significant changes without warning with the exception of the most recent timeline addition to their platform. These past actions will always have users uneasy towards any thought towards significant changes.

Alicia Keys: Story Telling App

R&B superstar Alicia Keys has transcended entertainment with her new interactive story telling apps for her younger fans. With great anticipation speculating for the new Alicia Keys album, opportunity for a mobile outreach to fans in ingenious. Not many music superstars cater to their younger fans, but this app has done them justice. Stories in this app basically help to foster growth and empowerment. The stories are derived from experiences learn and incorporated with the grandmother of Alicia Keys and their close relationship.  Along with stories and exclusive songs from Alicia Keys, the app also contains a playable piano. 

During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Alicia Keys was asked if the app took away from her music, she said that it actually enhances her music. From a business stand point; this app and its well-timed distributed does more than enhance the music of Alicia Keys. Sales from the app can even be incorporated into album sales projects. The demographic for the app include children from the ages of 6-12, and parents have to purchase the app for the children. I'm sure the listening demographic for an Alicia Keys album has a wide range due to the soulful content of her music that appeals to many audiences. The combination of this app and new album create a marketing strategy that keeps Alicia Keys on the tip of everyone's tongue.

When it comes to interaction, this app is almost in the category of social gaming. Users have many options through the entire app experience. The graphic presentation and story quality surpasses many competitor apps and the app pricing of $3.99 is very reasonable. I anticipate this initiative becoming a trend for more entertainment avenues in and outside of the music industry. Communication is at its highest point in society and building buzz and anticipation for any initiative can be very vital to achieving success.