Instagram’s API is Changing, Is Your Destination Prepared?

By Bethany, Social Media Strategist | December 11, 2018

New platforms, Facebook algorithms, Instagram APIs – it’s hard to keep up with all the shifts in social media!

Social media is fast changing, and it’s important that you destination keeps up with the changes to maintain good relationships with your travelers.

On December 11, Instagram will be rolling out their new API. API is Instagram’s way of tracking communication amongst its users. This shift will affect all brands, but especially the way destinations and the travel industry connect with their consumers.

Let’s break down the changes coming, and how to prepare.

1. Your account needs to be business verified.

In order to collect data for your business, Instagram is requiring all business-related entities to connect their Instagram account with a Facebook page. If you need instruction to make this change, visit this helpful resource!

2. Accounts can only track 30 unique hashtags in a 7-day period.

Each Instagram business account can track 30 hashtags in a 7-day period. If you are not seeing the results you would like, after 7 days you can change out hashtags you are tracking. If you are using a user-generated platform to track content from users, it would be best to consult with your account manager to make adjustments to the hashtags you use.

3. Location data is no longer available from APIs.

Unfortunately for destinations, if you use a user-generated content platform to request rights to images, you will no longer be able to track photos by location. We advise that no matter which third party platform you use, you speak with your account manager to discuss setting up alternative hashtag and username tracking to get the best results for content.

4. Username data will not be available from Hashtag API.

Due to the Instagram cracking down on privacy, you will no longer be able to see a user’s handle name on their photos using hashtag tracking. This is to protect the privacy of the user. If you do use a gallery on your website featuring content from a user-generated platform, it will not change the way that you process content except that their username will no longer show in the format.

Have questions about your Instagram management, or how to prepare your account to get the best results? Feel free to email us to set up a consultation! SmartStrategies@bbggadv.com.