Is IGTV the music of the future?

Last June, the IGTV channel was launched on Instagram. This is a medium that will allow users to post up to an hour-long video. You might argue that other channels already exist for this need. This is partially true, but if we really look into the details, then one major difference becomes apparent.

20. February 2019


How is IGTV different from YouTube?

YouTube users are always improving the equipment for their vlogs, but for IGTV videos, all you need is a mobile phone. This single prop will be enough for you to create successful and timely content. The video you create may not be as attractive as the one on YouTube, but on the other hand, you won't lose as much time with post-production. And you'll be more authentic. One thing is crucial though: the shortcomings of the YouTube content you have a chance to make up for by using a beautiful camera, IGTV won't work as well. You have to make up for the simplicity of this channel with entertaining content.

How does IGTV work?

Instagram TV's launch wasn't exactly a happy one. Instagram expected a standalone app to work for them to track posts, which didn't happen. Fortunately, they rather swiftly included IGTV directly into the Instagram app.

As soon as you start a feed, a video starts playing and you can select the next one by scrolling sideways. IGTV's main difference is in the vertical videos. You may be familiar with these from Instagram Stories, but it's important to note that what works for short clips doesn't have as much success with longer footage.

Personal experience over gold

One thing is clear - IGTV is not for everyone. You may not be able to harness its potential for your purposes. You may be annoyed by the energy you'll have to put into making the content truly compelling. Plus, a lot of users are still struggling with the vertical form of video on the networks...

Since it's still too early to tell how far Instagram will take IGTV, it's definitely fun to try it out for yourself.Once you get used to it and master the controls, you'll get a leg up on the competition.And if IGTV gains as much popularity as Stories, you'll be poised for success :-).

So if the space offered by Instagram Stories isn't enough for you, don't wait to try this form of communication. You have nothing to lose. And if you don't have the time, we at Railsformers are happy to show you that attracting new users through quality and engaging content is a breeze.