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14th October 2024 - By: Barbara

Instagram’s New Features – Here’s What You Need to Know

new Instagram features

Instagram seems to be in its glory days as it consistently introduces new Instagram features that are making the platform more interactive, engaging and personalised.  

Whether you’re using it for business or just for fun, these new features are designed to enhance how you connect with your audience. Let’s have a look into some of the latest updates Instagram has rolled out and why you should be paying attention. 

  1. Public Comments on Stories: More Engagement, More Fun!

If you’ve ever wanted to get more interaction on your Stories, you’ll love this update. Instagram now allows users to leave public comments on Stories, which adds a whole new layer of interaction. It’s no longer just about private replies, Stories are becoming more like regular posts where anyone can engage. 

As we highlighted in our previous newsletter, the popularity of Instagram Notes was largely driven by Gen Z’s love for quick, disappearing messages. Now, Instagram is taking that concept and applying it to Stories as they allow users to drop comments publicly. 

By letting followers leave public feedback on Stories, Instagram is turning its temporary content format into a more interactive, community-driven space. For brands and creators, this is a big deal – you can now foster deeper conversations and boost visibility directly through your Stories. 

  1. The Photo Drop Feature: Recognising Your Creators

Next up in new Instagram features is the Photo Drop. Imagine sharing someone else’s photo in your Story and giving them proper credit automatically – this feature makes that happen. Instagram’s new Photo Drop feature allows users to get credited when their photos are shared in another user’s Story. 

It’s a simple but powerful tweak that shows Instagram is serious about supporting creators. By ensuring proper credit is given where it’s due, Instagram is making it easier for photographers, influencers and everyday users to feel appreciated. This, in turn, encourages more sharing and collaboration. Everyone wins with this one – whether you’re an artist looking to share your work or a brand wanting to showcase user-generated content. 

  1. New DM Engagement Options: Personalisation to the Max

One of the most exciting new Instagram features is the updated Direct Message (DM) engagement tools. Instagram’s DMs have become a hub for private conversations but with these new tools, they’re taking personalisation to the next level. 

The updates include new drawing tools, stickers and photo cut-outs for images shared in DMs. If you’re a fan of customising your messages, these new tools will make your conversations even more creative and personal. Imagine drawing directly on a shared image or adding fun stickers to spice up your chats – Instagram has made it all possible. 

Additionally, the platform has added birthday reminders to your Notes bubble, complete with a fun confetti animation. This makes it easier to remember friends’ birthdays and gives you another reason to send a personalised message. 

  1. Chat Themes: Setting the Vibe

Another noteworthy update from Instagram is the addition of new chat themes. With Instagram introducing seasonal themes – like “Fall” or one for Sabrina Carpenter’s new album – users now have more ways to customise their chat experience.  

It’s a simple feature but it adds a new level of personality to your conversations. Whether you’re all about the cosy autumn vibes or want to celebrate your favourite artist, these themes make it fun to set the mood in your DMs. 

Why These New Instagram Features Matter 

These new features are all about enhancing engagement and personalisation. From allowing public comments on Stories to recognising creators through the Photo Drop feature, these updates show Instagram’s commitment to creating a more interactive, user-friendly platform. 

For businesses and creators, these features provide even more ways to connect with followers. Public comments on Stories can spark new conversations, while the Photo Drop feature encourages collaboration and gives credit where it’s due. With the new DM tools, personalising your messaging has never been easier. 

These updates also reflect Instagram’s shift toward fostering deeper, more meaningful interactions. By offering users more creative tools, Instagram is making sure that every part of the app feels more connected, personal and engaging. 

What’s Next? 

While these new features are impressive, Instagram isn’t stopping here. We can expect even more updates in the coming months, including a collaborative carousel feature, which will allow users to submit photos to someone else’s post. This feature is currently in testing and could be another major shift in how people collaborate and engage with content on the platform. 

Instagram is clearly focused on keeping its user base engaged with a steady stream of fresh tools. As the platform evolves, it’s crucial to stay ahead of these changes and incorporate them into your strategy. 

So, if you’re not already taking advantage of these new Instagram features, now’s the time.