Instagram is all set to roll out its failed plan to convert the photo-sharing app to a shopping app by discontinuing the shop tab.
In 2018, Instagram introduced new shopping features in its mobile app to let users buy products they see in photos and videos. The company even added a new Shop tab to the home screen of its app in 2020 as an attempt to push these features further.
However, Instagram is now taking a step back as it will soon remove the Shop tab from its app. This change will be rolled out in February. The company told its employees that it is shifting its efforts from e-commerce to the advertising business, which is where Meta’s main revenue comes from.
This news was not something unexpected as the rumours were there since September about the discontinuation of the shop tab. But that doesn’t mean that shopping features will be completely removed from Instagram. The company made it clear that it will continue to invest in the shopping experience within the Instagram app for people and businesses.
Interestingly the Shop tab was introduced along with the reel tab but was unable to grab that much attention among the users. What are your views on the removal of the shop tab from Instagram, do let us know in the comments.
