In late 2023, Instagram introduced Flipside, which is a more refined version of “finstas.” It allows users to share an entirely unique feed with their closest friends without having to create a new account. Read our blog post on Everything You Need to Know About Flipside for more context on this unique Instagram feature.
Instagram made it clear from the beginning that this feature was still in its testing phase and that they were gathering user feedback to decide whether this was going to be a permanent feature which they would continue to improve. So why, after only a few short months is Instagram thinking of pulling the plug on this new feature? Keep reading as we share our predictions about why Instagram is discontinuing Flipside.
Overlapping with Instagram’s Existing Features
Flipside’s main purpose was to allow users to share a separate feed, including posts, a profile pic, and a bio with a selected group of close friends. Sound familiar? That’s because Instagram already has a “close friends” feature that allows users to share stories and feed posts to a select group of their followers. This overlap may have users questioning the value added by this new feature and therefore, there is no motivation to set up a flipside account.
Late introduction into the Market
The concept of a private, secondary Instagram account already exists in the form of “finstas” and “spam” accounts. Many users already have created such accounts and have been using them for a long time. The introduction of Flipside may not be as exciting to such users as they already have established second accounts and therefore will not want to start from scratch with Flipside.
Had Flipside been launched back when “finstas” were gaining popularity, it might have seen greater success.
Privacy concerns
The appeal of “finstas” and spam accounts lies in the fact that they are separate from the user’s main account. Users are able to post vulnerable content which they don’t want to associate with their main online persona. Also, there is no fear of accidentally posting something on your main account as they are completely separate.
Flipside’s approach of integrating this private space with the main account may not resonate with users who value anonymity or wish to keep their public and private spaces separate from each other.
What does the discontinuation of Flipside mean for its users?
While Flipside is being phased out, your content from this feature will not be lost immediately. Instagram announced that all Flipside posts will be archived, allowing you the option to post them on your main account if you please. Additionally, you can download your flipside posts through Instagram’s Account Centre up until August 2024.
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