Meta’s recent revamp of its developer tools is creating a ripple effect that’s impacting third-party consumer apps formerly connected to Instagram. This shake-up is affecting familiar names in the dating app arena, such as Tinder and Hinge, which had previously allowed users to link their Instagram profiles to showcase their photos to potential dates.
In addition to these dating apps, Day One, a journaling app acquired by Automattic— the company behind WordPress.com— in 2021, is facing significant changes. The app announced that due to modifications in the way developers can programmatically access Instagram data, it will no longer be able to import users’ Instagram photos and posts into their journals.
Meta initially revealed its intentions to disable the Instagram Basic Display API by December 4, 2024. This particular API had enabled third-party apps to access users’ Instagram data, including profiles, images, videos, and albums. Developers are now being urged to transition to the more robust Instagram API to continue servicing their applications. However, it’s worth noting that the new APIs cater only to Instagram business accounts, leaving personal accounts unable to offer the same functionality Day One previously utilized for content importation.
Consequently, users of Day One will not be able to automatically import new Instagram content into their journals moving forward, although existing entries with imported Instagram photos will remain accessible. This feature, once a key attraction for Day One’s Premium membership at an annual fee of $34.99, will no longer be a selling point.
In a heartfelt message to its users, Day One acknowledged the disappointment this change might bring. “At Day One, we strive to make journaling as effortless and meaningful as possible, and the Instagram integration served as a wonderful bridge for bringing memories into your journal,” the company shared in a blog post. They expressed understanding of the reliance users had on this feature, as well as its popularity among the Day One team.
Discord, another service that previously relied on the now-deprecated API, already ceased its Instagram connection due to the lack of support. Similarly, apps like Spotlight and SnapWidget, which utilized Instagram posts for website embeds, are suggesting users switch to business accounts to stay connected.
This transition signals a shift in how businesses and developers will need to adapt to continue offering rich, integrated services that utilize Instagram’s content and connectivity.
