Instagram is reportedly testing a feature which enables video calling on its app. The rumoured feature – if it becomes a reality – will take Instagram a step closer to Snapchat, which already allows its users to make audio and video calls alongside offering a dedicated chat option.
The video calling feature on Instagram, which was spotted by WhatsApp fan blog WABetaInfo, allows users to make video calls directly from an Instagram Direct message thread. It is claimed to be initially available for internal testing, with a screenshot to prove its existence. The leaked screenshot allegedly shows a new video call icon in the top-right corner of an Instagram Direct message, and it appears similar to what’s presently available on WhatsApp. The icon would enable video calling with a one-tap gesture when a user is within an active chat. Reports suggest that the video call feature is would be available in the next few months for both Android and iOS devices.
Proof of the growth of video calling can be seen from statistics of the Facebook Messenger app, developed by Instagram’s now parent. Video chat sessions on the Messenger app reached 17 billion in 2017, two times that of 2016.
Currently, Instagram seems to be largely focusing on giving users a platform to showcase their stories. Earlier this month, Instagram added GIF stickers that come from Giphy.
