ICYMI: Instagram is testing a feature called Candid Stories — and many have been quick to point out its resemblance to a key component of popular app, BeReal.
On BeReal, users are notified simultaneously to capture and share a photo within two minutes — using a dual camera feature.
As BeReal’s popularity grows (it’s reportedly at 21M monthly active users), Instagram’s latest Candid Stories test may be an effort to slow its roll.
Keep scrolling, we’re sharing everything we know so far.
What Is the Instagram Candid Stories Feature?
Initially called Candid Challenges, this feature was first shared by Alessandro Paluzzi, a developer known for discovering unreleased features and app updates:
#Instagram is working on IG Candid Challenges, a feature inspired by @BeReal_App 👀
— Alessandro Paluzzi (@alex193a) August 22, 2022
ℹ️ Add other's IG Candid to your story tray. And everyday at a different time, get a notification to capture and share a Photo in 2 Minutes. pic.twitter.com/caTCgUPtEV
Users who participate in Candid Stories will be sent a notification prompting them to share a candid photo — using the Dual Camera feature.
Once complete, it'll appear on their Instagram Stories — where they can then use any of the app's editing tools (excluding filters).
According to Meta, Candid Stories will only be visible "to those who also share their own."
And if users don't want to receive a notification, they can also capture an Instagram Candid "from the Stories camera or the multi-author story at the top of feed."
Why Is Instagram Testing This Feature?
Instagram’s been experimenting with new features this year, whether it’s Instagram Notes or Reels Templates, with the goal of keeping users engaged and active on the app.
As Instagram evolves, it’s also had to consider Gen Z (an up and coming generation) and how they interact with social media.
Unlike millennials, who made perfectly-curated feeds popular, Gen Z prefers less filters, less polish, and less time spent thinking about captions or the perfect angle.
While Candid Stories is still being tested, if Instagram does launch it, we could see much more transparency and authenticity on the platform.
From creators posting in-the-moment content, to brands showcasing their behind-the-scenes process, we might be witnessing the beginning of the end for picture-perfect feeds.
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