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[Infographic] The Evolution of Instagram Ads

[Infographic] The Evolution of Instagram Ads

In 2010, the world was introduced to a seemingly-simple photo-sharing app called Instagram. With a hipster polaroid logo and new filters beyond standard sepia and B&W tones, I don't think anyone would have predicted that in just two short years, Instagram would be acquired for $1B, and the world as we knew it would change forever. But here we are... And Instagram is set to break $4B in ad revenue alone in 2017.

It's true, none of us were there for the conversation between the founders of Instagram (unless they are reading, and in which case, I am sorry for the following hypothetical conversation if it does not represent you accurately), but I can't imagine that the conversation went anything like this: "Alright so, ya see? There's this app, right? A mobile app. And what you're going to do is take a picture with the app, and post the picture to the app, and everyone on the app will see. Doesn't that sound fun? People connecting with people." "Oh, and in two years, it'll probably be worth a billion dollars."

Fast forward 2 years and that idea was worth a cool billion. Who would've thought? (Well, savvy businessmen for one, but that aside) This $1B acquisition of Instagram ushered in new, and seemingly unlimited, opportunities for the platform like video.

Then sponsored posts became a thing, offering companies and individuals the opportunity to buy space on Instagram for increased connectivity, visibility, and engagement. Soon after, immersive ad campaigns followed, carousel ads, and an updated algorithm. What a time to be alive.

All of this an more is in the latest infographic from SOCi, titled, "The Evolution of Instagram Ads," highlights this timeline in more detail. Check it out.