Linda Yaccarino reacts to reports of Instagram's Twitter clone

Linda Yaccarino, the newly appointed CEO of Twitter, reacted to reports that Instagram is diligently working on a text-based app.

Yaccarino shared her excitement on the social media platform, retweeting a story discussing the Twitter clone already undergoing testing. With a confident tone, she tweeted, "Game on!"

Game on! https://t.co/62JYrLuuCJ

— Linda Yaccarino (@lindayaX) May 21, 2023

This development arises as Yaccarino assumes the helm of the company, which is owned by Elon Musk.

Twitter has experienced volatility since his takeover, leading to many advertisers pausing their spending or even abandoning the platform entirely. As a former NBCUniversal advertising executive, Yaccarino faces the task of regaining advertisers' trust and attracting them back to the platform after months of uncertainty.

While some Twitter users have sought alternative platforms due to discomfort with the app, finding solace in similar apps like Mastodon, Hive, and Bluesky, Instagram has a history of drawing inspiration from its social media competitors. Features such as Reels, inspired by TikTok, and Stories, influenced by Snapchat, have demonstrated Instagram's adaptability. The upcoming stand-alone app will mirror Twitter's capabilities, as Meta (formerly Facebook) has been conducting tests with prominent influencers, including actors and athletes who have been granted early access. The new app will be integrated with Instagram, allowing usernames and verifications to be carried over to the platform. Although the decentralised app has yet to receive an official name, it is reportedly codenamed P92 or Barcelona, according to sources cited by MoneyControl.

In response to media inquiries, a spokesperson for Meta stated, "We're exploring a standalone decentralised social network for sharing text updates. We believe there's an opportunity for a separate space where creators and public figures can share timely updates about their interests." The development of this app reflects Meta's vision for creating a dedicated platform where individuals can share text-based updates, catering to the needs of creators and public figures.

As the competition between Twitter and Instagram intensifies, Yaccarino and her team face the challenge of retaining Twitter's user base as well.