Despite finding a new competitor, BeReal, Meta has already launched a Dual camera feature on Instagram to stay on top. BeReal is a new social media platform allowing users to take a spontaneous snapshot of their daily lives. Users will receive notifications of two-minute windows where they can capture a picture of their current situation using both the front and back cameras simultaneously. 

Founded in 2010, Instagram allows users to share photos and videos. After gaining popularity, Meta Platforms acquired the app in 2012. As a way to compete with new and popular apps, Instagram has added many new features since the app's release, such as hashtags, Reels and Instagram Stories. Today, Instagram has at least 1.452 billion users monthly.

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While it's no surprise Instagram took inspiration from BeReal, there are a few key differences between the two apps. Users can find Instagram's new Dual feature in the Story and Reels section. Start by opening the app and tap the 'New post' icon at the top of the screen. The screen will transition to an area to upload photos. The bottom of the screen will display alternative ways to post. Choose either 'Story' or 'Reel' from these options. The camera will activate. The left-hand side shows a menu of features. The camera icon at the end is the new Dual feature. When the camera is activated, a second display with the opposite camera appears in the top right corner. By adding the feature to Reels, Instagram has allowed the function to operate in the video. At the moment, BeReal only allows pictures. There is also a noticeable difference in editing features between the two apps. BeReal highlights authenticity as it captures everyday life without filters. Unlike BeReal, Instagram allows effects to be added post-photo.

Instagram Has A History Of Copying App Features

Split image of someone taking a BeReal, and the BeReal app on the App Store

In terms of protecting itself from rivals, Instagram is not a rookie. There is a history of Instagram adding elements that are directly related to other trending platforms. Instagram Stories, a similar feature to Snapchat, was introduced in 2016. Following Snapchat's lead, Instagram added augmented reality face stickers. In 2013, Instagram launched videos during Vine's peak, and Reels dropped soon after TikTok gained popularity. As far as Instagram's new features go, there is undoubtedly a trend. A unique feature in any app that entices users away from Instagram could be targeted to be cloned. In light of BeReal's success in the Apple Store on July 25, the Dual camera addition to Instagram's growing feature set was no surprise.

Despite Instagram's addition of Dual cameras, the main difference between BeReal and Instagram is the genuine, authentic way BeReal engages friends. Because BeReal decides the window of time users capture their current, unedited happenings, it adds a level of realism that Instagram hides with its filters and unspontaneous platform. Of course, as BeReal is only two years old, time will tell if the fledging app is a genuine threat to Instagram. Either way, Instagram's strategy to introduce the Dual feature is an excellent example of the app's relevance-oriented approach.

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Sources: Instagram