Instagram Is Killing Its Apple Watch App

Photo sharing app Instagram has become the latest company to confirm that it won’t be supporting future Apple Watch software updates.

According to a report from 9to5Mac, Instagram has joined Slack, Whole Foods, eBay, Amazon and Google Maps in scrapping their apps for Apple’s smartwatch.

It’s believed that this is a widespread response to a recent decision from Apple calling on software developers to create “native” apps for the Watch.

Previously, many apps were made available to Apple Watch users through Bluetooth tethering. However, Apple has had a change of heart and wants firms to develop dedicated apps for the device instead.

Of course, this means that companies like Instagram and Google have to put more effort into creating software for the Watch, and clearly they’re not happy about this.

Wearables aren’t exactly perfect for viewing photos anyway, so that’s likely another reason why the Facebook-owned firm has decided to abandon the Apple Watch.

Speaking to French blog iPhoneAddict, the social media giant said: “The Instagram app for Apple Watch will no longer be available as a stand-alone experience once users upgrade to Instagram version 39 on iOS, released on April 2, 2018.

“We are committed to providing users with the best experience with their Apple products and we will continue to explore ways to achieve this on all platforms.”

“Users with an Apple Watch will continue to enjoy a great Instagram experience through various rich and varied notifications.”