Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, has announced another change to Instagram’s e-commerce options. According to an internal memo quoted by The Information, it plans to remove the platform’s “Shopping” page due to “shifts in company priorities.” Instagram plans to pivot toward a less personalized version of the page called “Tab Lite.” Initial tests have been underway since early September. At the same time, the company wants to place more ads in clips on Instagram. In addition, the video function is to be strengthened, and there are to be other new solutions to bring brands and customers together. It is Meta’s goal to ”remain committed to the goal of making Instagram the best place for people to discover and buy products from brands and creators they love,” a Meta spokesperson was quoted by The Information.
In late August, Instagram announced a new feature that allows users to add products to their wishlists through screenshots. In addition, it has recently become possible in the U.S. for small businesses to complete the entire purchase process, including payment and check-out, in chat. Meta is also tinkering with the social commerce experience on Facebook. The live shopping feature will be shut down on Oct. 1, and more ads will be placed in clips on Facebook.
