As humans, we may be averse to change from time to time. However, in a world where technology is evolving at world wind speeds, how antagonistic are people to change? The latest test comes in the form of a logo change from the popular social media app, Instagram.
Since its launch nearly 6 years ago, and the subsequent success, the logo became a widely recognized icon. On Wednesday May 11th 2016, Instagram made the following announcement on its website:
"The Instagram community has evolved over the past five years from a place to share filtered photos to so much more - a global community of interests sharing more than 80 million photos and videos every day."
"Our updated look reflects how vibrant and diverse your storytelling has become."
What has changed?
1.Most noticeably, the logo has changed from the old retro look of a polaroid camera to a rainbow hued, cartoon-like camera.
2.The layout has changed to a much simpler, monochromatic one that is intended to make your pictures and videos stand out.
3.Notifications are no longer orange, they are red.
The other social media giant, Twitter, was abuzz with varying reactions to the Instagram makeover:
"Dear @instagram, the old logo was fine, and I want it back. #ifitaintbrokedontfixit."
"The new Instagram logo looks like something I'd have made in year 7 ICT."
"Instagram spent more time and effort on the announcement video for their new logo rather than their new logo."
Contrastingly, one Twitter user welcomed the change saying:
"I actually hid my instagram app in a folder because the old logo was so ugly. #truestory Love love love the new one!"
Some graphic designers expressed their liking and excitement towards the new, hip look, but others were not so kind with their words:
"Not digging the new @instagram logo design. Rainbow gets completely lost against my iPhone backgrounds. In-app coloring is harsh as well"
"The new Instagram logo design is far too generic. Should have kept the original design but maybe tweaked a little. It's just....no."
While Instagram may have tried to tap in to the creative aesthetic, some believe that this may have been a missed opportunity on their part, angering a majority of their approximately 400 million monthly users. Those who are willing to reason, gave credit where credit was due. They believe that while the logo may not be so visually appealing, the new layout and app redesign are more user friendly than the previously used version.
An interview with Ian Spalter, the company's head of design, revealed that they anticipated the negative reactions to the change. In an interview with Fast Company, he was quoted as saying:
"Maybe I'll take a vacation, in a bunker"
Rebranding, and logo redesign in particular, is a move that takes much calculation and risk assessment. Although rebranding may be a risky move for many businesses, Instagram can rest assured that it is not in any imminent danger of losing much of its enormous user base.