Instagram Adds Monetization For Musicians, Creators

Instagram is launching new features that enable musicians and content creators to monetize their work.

They include digital badges and the addition of shared ad revenue in its long-form video service IGTV.

Fans can support content creators with the purchase of badges, starting at $0.99 to $4.99 which appear next to their name during the video. Fans who have purchased badges will also stand out in the comments and unlock additional features. Instagram will forgo revenue from badges during the testing phase.

Badges will begin testing next month with select creators. Over the coming months it will expand to all creators in the US, Brazil, Australia, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, Spain, and Mexico.

55% Of Ad Revenue To Creators

Instagram also announced the addition of ads in its long-form video service IGTV. Instagram will share 55% of ad revenue with the content creators.

The video ads will be built for mobile with durations of up to 15 seconds. Instagram said it will test options including the ability to skip an ad. “We’re committed to making IGTV an effective and brand-safe space for advertising so that we can help creators make money and connect people with great products,” said Instagram.

Instagram will roll out the IGTV ads with a small group of creators and advertisers in the US, and expand access as they test the experience.

Live Shopping & Brand Collabs

Instagram recently announced Live Shopping, which will let creators and brands tag products during their live videos. Over the coming months they will expand shopping access to more creators.

Instagram is also expanding access to Brand Collabs Manager, which helps creators find potential brand partners.