Initially instagram was called burbn like the whiskey

Initially, Instagram was called “Burbn” like the whiskey.

In the vast ocean of social media platforms, Instagram stands out as one of the most popular and influential platforms with over a billion active users. However, did you know that Instagram was not always known by this name? Initially, it was called “Burbn,” drawing inspiration from the beloved liquor, bourbon.

The genesis of Instagram traces back to 2010 when two young entrepreneurs, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, embarked on a journey to create a unique check-in app with a twist. They fused the concept of location sharing popularized by Foursquare with photo-sharing abilities and Burbn was born.

The founders envisioned Burbn as a multi-purpose app where people could check-in at various locations, post plans, share photos, and even plan future events. However, as they delved deeper into the development process, they realized that Burbn was becoming cluttered and lacked focus. It was just too complicated for users to navigate through the numerous features.

Driven by their commitment to creating a user-friendly and streamlined experience, Systrom and Krieger embarked on a significant pivot. They stripped away many features, focusing solely on photo-sharing, and rebranded the app as Instagram. The new name blended “instant” and “telegram,” aligning perfectly with the app’s core functionality of capturing and sharing moments instantaneously.

The decision to rename the app stemmed from the desire to create a globally recognizable and easily pronounceable brand. While Burbn might have been unique, it lacked the universal appeal necessary for an app that aimed to amass a wide user base. The name change was a strategic move to position the app as a specialized platform for photo-sharing and enhance its marketability.

When Instagram was officially launched in October 2010, no one could anticipate the tremendous success that lay ahead. The simplistic and aesthetically pleasing interface, coupled with its ability to instantly transform ordinary photos into visually captivating moments through filters, struck a chord with users. Celebrities, influencers, and everyday individuals flocked to the platform, turning Instagram into a cultural phenomenon.

The evolution of Instagram, from its humble beginnings as Burbn to its current status as a global social media powerhouse, is a testament to the power of adaptability and the importance of understanding user needs. The decision to pivot and rebrand the app proved to be a groundbreaking move that propelled Instagram to unimaginable heights.

In conclusion, Instagram’s original name, Burbn, might have been inspired by whiskey, but the transformation and rebranding were essential steps that led to its remarkable success. From a cluttered check-in app to a streamlined and focused photo-sharing platform, Instagram captivated the hearts of users around the world. Its journey serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of technology and the constant need to evolve to meet ever-changing user demands.

Source: The Atlantic