The Evolution of Instagram: From Burbn to a Social Giant

Initially named 'Burbn', Instagram began as a check-in app. Pivoting due to competition from Foursquare, founders Systrom and Krieger refocused on photo sharing, launching Instagram in 2010.

Instagram's user base grew rapidly, reaching 1 million users in just two months. Its simplistic design and unique filters made photo-sharing both easy and stylish.

In 2012, Facebook acquired Instagram for $1 billion. At the time, Instagram had only 13 employees. This acquisition helped Instagram grow with Facebook's resources.

In 2016, Instagram launched Stories, a game-changing feature inspired by Snapchat. It allowed users to post content that disappears after 24 hours, significantly increasing user engagement.

Instagram shifted from a chronological feed to an algorithm-based feed in 2016. This move aimed to show users more relevant content, but also sparked widespread criticism.

Instagram has created a new economy, with 'influencers' earning substantial incomes through sponsored content. It's estimated that influencer marketing on Instagram is a multi-billion dollar industry.

Acknowledging the platform's impact on mental health, Instagram initiated measures like hiding 'likes' to reduce social pressure among users, showing its commitment to user well-being.