fbpx

Shopify Drops Their Instagram API: What’s Next for Sellers Who Gram?

If you use Shopify to power your online store, you will need to make changes to the way your Instagram feed displays. On March 31, Shopify’s API with Instagram will change. When it does, your visible Instagram feed within your Shopify store theme will no longer display images. Fortunately, there are solutions to make sure your Instagram integration stays looking and functioning its best. We’ll review what you can do with your Instagram integration and offer ways to help you do it: 

The Importance of Instagram for E-Commerce

If you’re taking this API change as an excuse to quit Instagram or remove the integration from your store, take a pause instead. Instagram remains one of the most highly-used social platforms in general – 1B people use it per day – but also, 62% of Instagram’s users report being more interested in a product once they’ve seen it featured on Instagram. 

 

These aren’t just good reasons to remain on Instagram and share your products and services there, but also to integrate your IG feed with your Shopify store. Customers who come from Instagram will see the feed on your site and know that they’re in the right place. Customers who don’t follow you on Instagram yet, and arrive at your store another way, will be prompted to follow you on IG after they see the feed on your website. The Instagram visual embed on your website will also add high quality imagery, personality, and an opportunity to connect that wouldn’t otherwise be present on the site. 

New Instagram Embed Options for Shopify

If you are looking for a way to display your Instagram feed on your Shopify site, you’ve got options. Shopify offers many apps that help create a connection between your Instagram profile and your store’s website. You can see the full list here with reviews and descriptions. 

 

How to choose the best Shopify Instagram App

How do you want your feed to display?
Each of the apps that Shopify offers to display Instagram feeds will work a bit differently. Do you want these images to carousel or show up in a grid, like your regular Instagram feed. Do you want the Instagram frame and logo displayed, or would you rather these images appear native to the website? There are options and you want to have a plan before you choose an app.

 

What special features or integrations do you need?
The main goal for any of these apps is to display your Instagram photos on your website. However, many have additional features such as the ability for customers to shop User-generated Instagram posts that tag or feature your product, as well as other in-app features. Shop around in the specs for an app that answers to your needs.

 

Do you want to assign any budget to a paid integration?
Many of Shopify’s apps are free, but some of the options presented are paid apps. Most paid options will cost around $4.99 per month and offer a free trial.

 

We recommend Instafeed for anyone who wants to get their Instagram display back up and running quickly and ensure it functions seamlessly.   

How to Integrate Instagram Tools and Shopify 

Once you’ve shopped around for the best Instagram feed application, it’s time to install. Choose the app you think will work best, pay any fees if necessary, and hit the “Add App” button to begin installation. Once you do, you’ll be taken through the steps to re-integrate your profile. 

 

If you need help to do this, the PixelRocket team can help! We’re offering a $99 Instagram Integration service. We won’t just install your Instagram feed application, but we’ll help you integrate with your profile, improve and optimize the display, and get your Instagram integration functioning supremely. If you’d like to learn more about this, or any of our other Shopify store services, get in touch. We are here to help!