New Version Of Instagram Just Released For Data-Strapped Travellers

Facebook has launched Instagram Lite, a version of the app that uses less data, takes up less space and starts faster.

Instagram Lite is now available for Android in the Google Play App Store.

The stripped-back version of the social media app is only 573 kilobytes, which means at 1/55th of the size of the 32-megabyte standard Instagram app, it takes up less space, starts faster and won’t eat into your data allowance.

The lite service allows users to filter and post photos to the feed or stories, watch stories and browse the explore page. Unlike the full app, users cannot share videos or direct message.

As tech giants look to expand their presence in global markets, lite apps address common issues facing mobile users in nascent technology markets, including older phones with less storage space, slower network connections or data packages that remain unaffordable to many.

Lite versions may also come in handy for travellers who are on limited data packages while abroad or looking to save space on their phones for holiday snaps.

Instagram Lite began testing in Mexico and will reportedly expand to more countries and get messaging and video posting capabilities later this year.

You might also like: The 11 Most Instagrammable Spots in Europe.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.