Instagram Sends Out Invitations For Mysterious Event Next Week
by Brent Dirks
December 5, 2013
Popular photo sharing social network Instagram has just sent out invitations to select media members for an event next Thursday, Dec. 12.
CNET, who was invited to the somewhat mysterious event, described what they received:
The package, wrapped with brown paper and a white ribbon, contained a wooden block, 4 inches long and wide and 1.75 inches thick, covered with a printed Instagram shot and a slot in the back so it can be hung on the wall. The included note invited the press to "share a moment with Kevin Systrom and the Instagram team." The event will kick off at 10 a.m. on December 12 in Midtown Manhattan.Sending the wooden block to media members suggests that Instagram may be planning some type of photo printing service, which is a natural area to take advantage of during the holiday season. Many third-party services can print Instagram photos on objects like 20-by-40 inch posters, postage stamps, photo books, and iPhone cases. One company is even printing Instagram shots on marshmallows. Instagram may even announce the next version of the app. Back in November, word leaked that the company was seriously considering adding some type of private and group messaging function with a future update. Thanksgiving Day also clocked in as another record for the Facebook-owned property. While not providing specific numbers, Instagram said the last Thursday in November was its busiest so far. Designed for the iPhone/iPod touch, Instagram can be downloaded now in the App Store for free.