After being ad-free for three years, the first Instagram ad has been unleashed and features fashion designer Michael Kors.
The first ad from Facebook-owned Instagram began running on Friday, November 1, and has a sponsored photo by fashion brand Michael Kors.
The advert shows a luxury watch from Kors' Timeless collection sitting on a table. The ad marks the end of the preview period which would acclimatize users with seeing photos and video ads in the feeds, which were previously ad-free.
Instagram users in the U.S. will see the Michael Kors image irrespective of whether they follow the brand on Instagram or not. The advert will also have a "sponsored" label to indicate that it is a paid-for placement. Users, however, will have the option to tap and hide the ad and provide feedback about what they did not like.
Earlier in October, Instagram announced that it would begin pushing out ads. On Thursday, October 24, Instagram gave users a peek into the sample ad, which resembled a regular Instagram post, but was designated as "sponsored" content.
"This is a one-time ad from the Instagram team that's meant to give you a sense for the look and feel of the ads you will see. You'll know a photo or video is an advertisement when you see the "Sponsored" label where the time stamp normally would be. Tap this label to learn more about how advertising works on Instagram," explained Instagram at the time.
While Michael Kors has posted the first branded advert, more ads are reportedly on way, per Instagram. However, the company did not reveal by when the adverts will go live or what the frequency of the adverts will be.
Even though the Michael Kors ad is a still image, ads will also appear on the popular photo-sharing app in video format.
Initially, Instagram is starting with a few brands on board as it wants its adverts to be "creative and engaging."
Apart from Michael Kors, the brands that Instagram has on board include Adidas, Ben & Jerry's, Burberry, GE, Levi's, PayPal, Lexus, Macy's and Starwood Hotels.
