When Instagram was commemorating their achievement of reaching 1 billion users, they launched their standalone video-based app. Instagram TV or IGTV allows users to upload vertical videos that can be up to one hour long.
I will take you through, how to create an account and how to upload your first video.
What is IGTV?
IGTV is a standalone vertical video application owned by Instagram made primarily for smartphones. Unlike Instagram, it allows users to upload vertical videos up to 10 minutes in length or up to 60 minutes if you are verified or popular. Despite it being a standalone app, basic functionality is also available within the Instagram app and website
How to create an IGTV account
You will need to first create an Instagram TV account.
Download the IGTV app from the App Store or from Google Play.
Sign up to the IGTV app (if you’re already logged in to your native Instagram account it will automatically use your profile).
Click on the settings gear icon in the right-hand corner, and then click “create a channel”.
Related Article: How to save Instagram stories
How to upload a video to IGTV
Now that your account is set up, here is how to successfully upload a video to IGTV:
Click on your avatar (from the main page) which will take you to your account.
Click the “+” in the right-hand corner to add a new video.
Select a vertical video from your camera roll.
Add in your title and description. Be sure to utilize relevant keywords to make sure your videos are “searchable”.
Link your video to an external page. Think of all the possibilities. You could link to your website, a gallery, your portfolio or even your online store.
Create a thumbnail for your video so your channel stays neat and organized.
Hit that post button and you’re all set.
After you’ve done a well deserved celebratory dance, check your IGTV stats: click on the “…” button next to the like, comment, share section. From here, select “View insights”. Now you will be able to gain access to information such as the number of views, likes and comments.
