Official Instagram app update refines UX and improves performance

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The official Instagram app for Windows Phone has been updated to version 0.3, but retains its beta label. The updates in the new version are described in the change log as "performance improvements, crash fixes, and UX refinements". The most obvious visible change is the addition of a following tab in the News Feed section of the app, making it easier to view the social activity (likes, comments, follows) of accounts that you are following.

A more subtle change is the removal of the search box from the Explore section of the app, which gives a little more room to show the featured thumbnail photos. Some of the in app iconography and graphics have also been refined for higher resolution screens.

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Overall app performance, especially around start-up time and loading of new content, has been improved. As a result the app feels smoother in operation, something that should encourage additional usage.

The Windows Phone Instagram app still has some way to go reach feature parity with the iOS and Android versions of the app. The most critical missing feature currently include video upload and direct messaging support. These are expected to be added in a future update of the app.

Windows Phone Store description:

Over 150 million users love Instagram! It's a simple way to capture and share the world's moments on your Windows Phone. Customize your photos with one of several gorgeous and custom built filter effects. Transform everyday moments into works of art you'll want to share with friends and family.

Instagram Beta v 0.3 update contains performance improvements, crash fixes, and UX refinements.

Instagram is a free download from the Windows Phone Store