How to Add Links to Instagram Stories – A Comprehensive Guide

ByJim Miller

Instagram Stories have become a popular way to engage with followers and share content. In the past, only power users were able to add links to their Stories using the swipe up feature. However, this feature has been retired, and Instagram has introduced a new way to add links to Stories using Link Stickers. In this article, we will discuss how to add links to Instagram Stories and clear up some misconceptions along the way.

How to Add Links to Instagram Stories

Adding links to Instagram Stories is a simple process that can be done by anyone. Whether you have a verified account, 10k followers, or a business account is no longer a requirement. Here's how you can add links to your Instagram Stories:

  1. Copy the link of the webpage you want to add to your Instagram Story.
  2. Open Instagram and tap on the “Your Story” option at the top left corner of the screen.
  3. Tap on the camera button to open the camera module.
  4. Select the Story option and capture a picture or record a video.
  5. Tap on the Stickers icon and select the Link option.
  6. Paste the copied link and customize the text if desired.
  7. Preview the Story with the link on top and post it as usual.

It's worth noting that these steps are specifically for Android users, but the process is similar for iOS users with slight UI differences.

Why Swipe Up Link Was Retired for Link Stickers

Instagram retired the swipe up feature for adding links to Stories for two main reasons. First, they wanted to streamline the Stories creation experience, and second, they wanted to offer more creative control. Additionally, Instagram may have been influenced by the vertical movement of TikTok, as it is a popular feature on the platform. The swipe up feature was previously limited to verified accounts or accounts with a certain number of followers, which left many users feeling excluded. Instagram listened to these concerns and removed the restrictions, introducing Link Stickers as a more inclusive alternative.

How Link Stickers Are Better in Instagram

Link Stickers offer several advantages over the swipe up feature. Users are already familiar with the Stickers option and use it frequently while sharing Stories, so they are more likely to discover the link feature naturally. Additionally, Stickers allow for better control over the position of the link and where it appears when the Story is live. Unlike the swipe up feature, Link Stickers not only allow users to view the link but also engage with the Story through comments and reactions. In a way, Link Stickers can be considered the next evolution of the swipe up feature.

Wrap Up: Adding Links to Instagram Stories

Instagram is constantly finding new ways to increase user engagement and benefit its follower base. Link Stickers are just one example of the platform's efforts to provide users with more options for sharing content. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily add links to your Instagram Stories and enhance your content-sharing experience. Don't forget to explore other features like the ability to copy comments on your Instagram updates for even more convenience.