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Instagram scraps old logo for a new, ‘modern’ design

Posted by Ella Delancey on 16th May 2016

Last week, Instagram went the way of Uber and rebranded. It replaced its classic Polaroid camera symbol with a pink and purple and abstract version. Instagram said it was because the platform now supports “photos and videos.” For Uber, it was because the company now does more than just connect drivers with riders.

Just as was the case with Uber, as soon as Instagram rolled out the new emblem, the internet reacted strongly. In fact, Uber, was so widely criticised following the rebrand that its head of design Andrew Crow stepped down from the company.

Take a look at the brilliant highlights gleaned from Twitter following the rebrand:

  • “The new Instagram icon is the worst thing that’s ever happened to me”
  • “Nah, I do not rate the new Instagram”
  • “Man that new Instagram logo does not fit in with the color scheme of my other phone icons at all. It’s hideous!”

Why are people so angry? It’s understood that people form bonds with brands and everything that comes with those brands, i.e. logos. I mean, I still haven’t forgiven Opal Fruits for rebranding to Starburst. However, it is just a logo. The application hasn’t changed. If anything, it’s getting better all the time – just like Uber.

Social media is a great place for people to vent their frustration and join in conversations – it’s what it was invented for. At the moment, I bet Instagram’s web traffic is going through the roof and with download figures currently standing at over 400,000,000, I’m sure there will be a few corks popped too. Good on them.

Anyway, once people get over the hype in a couple of days – just like everything else – life will carry on as normal. It’s not really so bad, is it?

Ella Delancey

A trained journalist, with a degree in English Language and Journalism from Kingston University, Ella began her career writing for local newspapers such as The River, followed by several internships within the media industry, including stints in fashion PR and social media agencies. These experiences fuelled her transition from journalism to PR, allowing Ella to combine her writing and creative skills with a deeply instilled ‘news sense’ to ensure she maximises coverage for her clients at every opportunity.