Instagram’s “Gifts” option, which allows creators to receive money in the form of virtual gifts, has been rolled out to more countries. This feature is similar to those on TikTok and Twitch, and was first launched in the United States in February. It is now available in over 30 countries, including Ireland, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and Indonesia.
To send gifts on Instagram, users must have a positive account balance of “Stars,” which serve as virtual currency. Stars can be purchased in packs ranging from 45 Stars for US$0.99 (RM4.65) to 300 Stars for US$5.99 (RM28).
While this new feature offers creators a way to earn money, it may take some time for them to see significant earnings. They earn just 1 cent for every star they receive, meaning they would need to receive 100 stars to earn US$1 (RM4.69).
Like any monetization system on Instagram, there are certain eligibility requirements that creators must meet. They must have more than 5,000 subscribers, a professional account, be over 18 years old, and comply with the platform’s terms and conditions.
This expansion of the “Gifts” option on Instagram provides creators in these countries with an additional avenue to monetize their content. Previously, only creators in the United States had access to this feature.
With the rise of platforms like TikTok and Twitch, social media networks are increasingly offering ways for creators to earn money from their content. By introducing the “Gifts” option, Instagram aims to attract and retain talented creators on its platform.
Creators who are interested in using the “Gifts” option can now access it in their Instagram account settings. They can then promote the option to their followers, encouraging them to send virtual gifts as a way of supporting their work.
Overall, this move by Instagram is expected to benefit creators by providing them with an additional revenue stream. As the feature becomes available in more countries, more creators will have the opportunity to earn money through virtual gifts.
It remains to be seen how popular this feature will be among Instagram users, but given the success of similar features on other platforms, it is likely to attract a significant amount of engagement.
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
