Instagram, one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, turned 14 this Sunday, boasting 2 billion active monthly users.
Launched on October 6, 2010, by Mike Krieger and Kevin Systrom, the platform gained rapid popularity, attracting 1 million users within three months of its debut. In 2012, just 18 months after its launch, Instagram was acquired by Facebook (now Meta) for $1 billion.
Over the years, Instagram has introduced a range of features and updates, including ad-supported posts, which significantly boosted its revenue.
By 2016, the platform was generating $3 billion in ad revenue. Today, Instagram’s brand value is estimated at $70 billion, contributing to Meta Platforms’ overall market value of over $1.4 trillion.
Instagram has become a key player in industries such as fashion, lifestyle, and beauty. In the first half of 2023, brands in these sectors generated $16.9 billion on the platform.
To address concerns about younger users, Instagram introduced “Teen Accounts,” offering parental controls and privacy settings designed for children and teenagers.
From its early days as a photo-sharing app, Instagram has evolved into a global hub for communication, marketing, and entertainment, maintaining its position as a social media leader.
#MaltaDaily