Instagram takes on Snapchat again with live video and disappearing photos

Instagram is aiming to make the site more “flexible” and “fun” as it unveils new features that once again seem to copy rival Snapchat. The first update brings live video to Instagram for the first time. It enables users and brands to broadcast live through its ‘Stories’ feature, with the videos disappearing once the user stops broadcasting. It is also adding new functionality to its one-on-one messaging service ‘Direct’, adding temporary photos and videos. Direct has more than 300 million monthly users, with the update aiming to give them more control over private sharing. The goal of both updates, according to the company, is to give users the “flexibility” to share in a “fun, low pressure way”.