New Instagram Direct Online Allows Followers to Send Pictures and Videos to Each Other Privately Over App: Will the Introduction of Instagram Direct Kill SnapChat? [Video]

Instagram founder Kevin Systrom just announced the introduction of a new online feature of Instagram called Instagram Direct. This feature allows users to share private pictures and videos with their followers for free over the app. Some critics are saying that this feature was added to take a stab at SnapChat's business model. SnapChat currently has their niche in the online photo sharing community cornered, because the photos you share on the SnapChat app are immediately deleted forever. Instagram has already proven that they are willing to change in order to satisfy demand. They recently added the video feature in order to take business away from competitor Vine, a video app that allows you to record a six second video and share it over the social network.

Jordan Crook from TechCrunch explains the logistics of the new Instagram feature. He writes, "Here's how it works: When you go in to post a picture (the same way that you've been posting pictures on Instagram), you'll see two new tabs on the top of the post: Followers and Direct. With Direct, you can choose a specific friend and type a special message, and that goes only to your friend. Once that friend opens up the photo, their profile picture within the message gets a check mark, noting that it's been read. Users can also like direct photo messages, and chat can ensue from there."

Right now, we're wondering just how many people will accidentally post pictures publicly that were meant to just go to one person. That could lead to some awkward situations!

Do you think that Instagram Direct will catch on and run SnapChat out of business? Or do you think that users will opt to use each different app for a different purpose? Vine has shown significant decline in popularity since the advent of Instagram Video, but there is no telling if the SnapChat empire will feel the same effects.

Check out this video that explains Instagram Direct and let us know what you think about the new feature in the comments!