Well folks, the rumors are true. Instagram now allows businesses to buy advertising.

I was scrolling my timeline today and Instagram made a sponsored post about their introduction of advertising for businesses. They informed users that for now, the only businesses whose ads will post are those with a great community on IG.

They also said that these ads will be creative. AND users have the option of hiding ads and telling Instagram what they don’t like about it.

This gives brands the opportunity to advertise on a whole new platform. Instagram is nothing like Facebook or Twitter when it comes to advertising. Whether users like it or not, the ad will be in their face; unlike other site it will be harder to ignore these post.

Instagram users will still have to look at the ad and decide whether or not they choose to hide the post or give it a double tap for creativity. Either way, it will be seen by more consumers than other social sites that offer advertising options.

While this a perk for brands, it’s not so much for consumers. The one place that was ad free will soon be bombarded with ads. It is nice to have the power to hide, but it will be hard to scroll by an ad without taking a second look.

My only questions so far:

– How often will users see ads? Every hour? Every refresh of the TL?

– Will brands be able to pay more to rid users of the “hide this post” option?

What do you think about Instagram leveling that playing field with advertising options? Comment and let me know!