Instagram has started rolling out new features aimed at helping people connect in more personal and interactive ways.
Among the latest updates, according to a news release from Meta Platforms, Inc., is a location-sharing tool called the Instagram map, along with new reposting capabilities and a dedicated Friends tab in Reels. Here’s what’s changing and how to use these features.
Instagram Map: Real-Time Location Sharing With Friends
The new map feature allows Instagram users to share their live location with a selected group of friends, per the release. It’s opt-in only, and you decide who sees your location. Once activated, your real-time location updates only when you open the app. Users can also see friends’ locations if they’ve chosen to share.
The map also highlights public content posted near a specific location, the company shared in the release. This includes tagged Reels, Stories, feed posts, and Notes that remain viewable on the map for 24 hours. You can access the feature directly from your Instagram direct message (DM) inbox.
Users don’t have to share locations to use the Instagram map, as they can still explore content posted from different places by others they follow, as long as it’s tagged.
Privacy And Parental Controls
The Instagram map is off by default. According to the release, users can control:
- Who can see their location (everyone they follow, just close friends, or a custom list)
- Which areas are excluded from location sharing
- Whether individual users are blocked from seeing their location
Parents using Instagram supervision tools will receive alerts if a teen account turns on location sharing. They’ll also be able to manage these settings.
To disable location sharing on Instagram, go into the map settings and toggle it off at any time.
Other New Features: Reposting And Friends Tab
Meta also announced additional Instagram features in this update:
- A Reposting feature, which lets you reshare public Reels and feed posts. The reposts will appear in your followers’ feeds and in a new “Repost” tab on your profile, while always crediting the original creator.
- A Friends tab in Reels, which shows content your friends have liked, commented on, or reposted. If you’re in a Blend, you’ll also see recommendations from that group.
These features are gradually becoming available across the U.S.
