The assertion that Instagram eliminated the use of hashtags is inaccurate. Hashtags remain a core feature of the platform, enabling users to categorize content and discover posts related to specific topics. They function as metadata tags, allowing for content aggregation and searchability within the Instagram ecosystem. An example would be using #photography to group and find images related to the art of photography.
Hashtags provide significant benefits for both content creators and users. For creators, they increase visibility, broaden reach to audiences interested in particular subjects, and facilitate engagement. For users, hashtags offer a structured method to explore content aligned with their interests, discover new accounts, and participate in niche communities. Historically, hashtags have been instrumental in organizing online conversations and facilitating the spread of information during events and movements.