In 2021, a significant change occurred on the Instagram platform concerning how users could direct their audience to external web pages. The previous method, known as the “swipe up” feature, allowed accounts meeting specific criteria to attach a link to their stories, which viewers could access by swiping upwards. This functionality was a key tool for businesses and creators to drive traffic outside of Instagram.
The replacement of this function with a link sticker offered a more inclusive and potentially engaging alternative. Previously, the swipe up feature was limited to verified accounts or those with over 10,000 followers. The introduction of link stickers democratized the process, allowing a broader range of users access to this linking capability. Additionally, the sticker format provided creators with more flexibility in terms of visual placement and customization within their stories, potentially enhancing user engagement. This shift also brought Instagram stories linking function in line with the platform’s overall design aesthetic, prioritizing interactive elements over simple calls to action.
