In 2012, when Facebook acquired Instagram for $1 billion, the company had only 13 employees, including its founders Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger. Despite its small team, Instagram’s impact on social media was profound, and its employees have since taken various paths in the tech world and beyond.
The Founders’ Continued Ventures
Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, the masterminds behind Instagram, remained with the company until September 2018. Currently, they are working on a new website dedicated to tracking the spread of the coronavirus outbreak, showcasing their ongoing commitment to innovative projects that address real-world issues.
The Evolution of Instagram
Instagram started as a location- and photo-sharing app called Burbn, which Kevin Systrom developed in his spare time. Mike Krieger joined as a co-founder, and together they pivoted the app to focus primarily on photography. Systrom was deliberate in his hiring approach, seeking employees who were genuinely passionate about the app. This meticulous selection process resulted in a lean but dedicated team by the time of Facebook’s acquisition.
The Original Team and Their Paths
A decade after the acquisition, many of Instagram’s original employees remain with the company, contributing to its growth and evolution within Facebook. Others have ventured out to start their own companies or have left the tech industry altogether.
Sarah Frier’s book, “No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram,” provides detailed insights into the lives and careers of these early Instagram employees. This snapshot of Instagram at a pivotal moment in its history highlights the diverse trajectories of its original team, reflecting the dynamic nature of the tech industry.
Lasting Impact and Ongoing Innovation
The story of Instagram’s acquisition by Facebook is a testament to the impact a small, dedicated team can have on the tech world. As Instagram continues to thrive under Facebook’s umbrella, the original employees’ contributions remain foundational to its success. Their subsequent ventures and projects continue to shape the landscape of technology and social media.
Instagram’s journey from a modest startup to a billion-dollar acquisition underscores the importance of passion, innovation, and strategic growth. The original team’s legacy lives on, both within Instagram and in the broader tech ecosystem.
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