Instagram Link Sharing In Stories Could Be Expanding To All Users

Instagram link sharing in the stories feature could be expanded to all users and is currently being tested by the social media platform.

Head of Product Vishal Shah told The Verge the current testing of Instagram link sharing is only available to a small group of users. The testing of the feature will also see a transition from the "swipe-up" function to a linking sticker. As of now, link sharing in stories is only available to verified accounts or accounts with 10,000 followers or more.

So, what is the purpose of this testing? The Verge notes, "[Instagram will] be watching for the types of links people post while keeping a particular eye on misinformation and spam."

Shah also mentioned that Instagram hopes to eventually transition to the linking sticker, which will allow followers to respond to stories. (The "swipe-up" function currently doesn't allow for responses when used.)

"That is the sort of future system we would like to get to. And that’s what we hope to roll out, if we’re able to make this work," said Shah.