Meta-owned Instagram has rolled out new features designed to improve how users connect and engage with friends on the platform. The new features include:
Repost Public Reels and Posts
Instagram now allows users to repost public reels and feed posts, making it easier to share content with followers. Reposted items appear both in friends’ feeds and within a dedicated tab on the user’s profile for easy reference.
Original creators are credited, helping their content reach wider audiences. To repost, tap the repost icon and optionally add a note before saving.
Instagram Map for Location Sharing and Content Discovery
The Instagram map feature lets users opt in to share their last active location with selected friends. Location sharing can be customized by choosing specific friends or groups, disabling it in certain places, or turning it off completely. For users with supervised teens, parents receive a notification when location sharing is enabled and can manage permissions.
Beyond sharing location, users can explore reels, posts, stories, and notes tagged with locations by friends and creators. Posts on the map remain visible for 24 hours and can be found through the DM inbox icon.
Friends Tab in Reels
A new “Friends” tab within Reels shows public content that friends have interacted with or content recommended through Blends based on shared interests.
Users can easily view and engage with reels their friends are creating and liking. You can manage what’s visible by hiding your activity or muting activity bubbles from certain users. Switching between Friends and Reels tabs is also available.
Availability
- Reposts: Available now
- Instagram Map: Rolling out in the United States, with global availability coming soon
- Friends Tab: Initially rolled out earlier this year and currently expanding worldwide
Announcing the new features, the company said:
People have always come to Instagram to share what they’re doing and where they’ve been. Now, with reposts, the map, and the “Friends” tab in Reels, it’s easier for you and your friends to stay connected through the content you’re enjoying on Instagram.