Instagram and Snapchat have become major staples in daily life. They are where many get their news, keep in contact with family and friends, and voice their thoughts and opinions. With a battle between the two channels for social media dominance, each outlet is constantly improving and adding new updates. However, countless users are not aware of the additional features at their fingertips such as the newly launched Instagram Spotlight feature or its competitor, Snapchat Stories. By knowing when to use Spotlight or Stories and understanding new updates, users can get the most from the two features.

Instagram Spotlight

Instagram recently launched Spotlight as a competitor to Snapchat’s Live Stories feature. Found at the top of a user’s Explore tab, Spotlight was previously only found during big holidays and events. However, after the feature’s initial success, the team at Instagram has begun selecting random themes and gathering the best videos on a daily basis. Spotlight is most useful when users want to watch polished and high-quality videos that are already selected and filtered to simplify the experience for them. This feature further differs from Snapchat Stories in that it allows those watching the video reel to see and follow the person who posted it, expanding the community of people they follow.

Snapchat Stories

Snapchat Stories have become one of the most wildly successful features launched by the company. However, understanding new updates and the difference between the traditional and the new has become increasingly important. While users are still able to send Snaps in the standard fashion they are accustomed to, Snapchat added a new aspect as well. There is the option to also add those same Snapchats to their Stories, a feed of pictures and videos they have posted throughout the day. Once a Story is posted, friends will be able to view it as many times as they want for the next 24 hours. This feature differs from Spotlight in that it gives a more personal feel as people are filming and sharing their own daily activities. Snapchat Stories allow users to tag along and experience a day in the life of their friends, family or even famous celebrities.

Did you like the new features when they were first released? Do you think understanding new updates truly makes a difference in your social media experience? Comment your thoughts and opinions below.