[danso]

First official statement:

https://instagram-press.com/blog/2018/09/24/statement-from-k...

> We’re planning on taking some time off to explore our curiosity and creativity again. Building new things requires that we step back, understand what inspires us and match that with what the world needs; that’s what we plan to do.

h/t to Bloomberg's @sarahfrier, who also says this:

https://twitter.com/sarahfrier/status/1044419256383729664

> My sources say the Instagram founders are leaving after increased tension with Mark Zuckerberg over the direction of the product. IG culture/priorities very different from FB. See my April story for background

[rattray]

"my April story" - https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2018-04-10/instagram...

[news_hacker]

From later on in the Twitter thread:

> Without the founders around, Instagram is likely to become more tightly integrated with Facebook, making it more of a product division than a company within Facebook, sources say

Given the "brand tax" of Facebook in the current climate, I really hope they avoid this for their own sake.

[neuroptera]

Curious as to what you mean by 'the "brand tax" of Facebook in the current climate.'

[chrisweekly]

Not OP, but I interpret "brand tax" as the opposite of the halo effect. FB's brand is tarnished, and arguably hinders rather than helps w/ IG brand perception.

[nojvek]

I’m somewhat guilty of this. I really love whatsapp even though it’s owned by Facebook. I loathe Facebook.com

I left hipstagram a long time ago, it made me feel anxious and addicted.

Network effects though. As long as people aren’t quitting as villages, Facebook network effects will keep them alive for a long time.

[mcny]

There were multiple memes with screenshots of people declaring they were quitting Facebook and using Instagram exclusively. Don't know if this was widespread though.

[neuroptera]

Ah I see, thank you. I've also mostly left FB, keeping the account around only for events and messenger. It has become so cluttered. It really is on its last legs.

[slumberlust]

Facebook is my new rolodex :)

[toss1]

Let's hope it goes obsolete like the Rolodex, only on an internet time scale

[nness]

I would assume the negative connotations surrounding the 'Facebook' brand, specifically Cambridge Analytica and 'Russia's election meddling.'

Anything associated too closely with the Facebook name could become associated with these negative connotations.