Riding the wave of iOS 18, Instagram has unveiled a host of new features for its direct messaging service, aimed at enhancing user experience with more customization and interaction options.
Live Location Sharing
Users now have the ability to share their real-time location with a friend or a group for up to one hour. It’s important to note that this sharing is restricted to the chat where it’s activated. Additionally, users can pin a location on a map to make meeting up easier.
Considering the potential privacy concerns, Meta has implemented several safety measures. By default, this feature is turned off, and location data cannot be transferred to other chats. Live locations also automatically expire after one hour. Instagram advises using this feature only with people you trust.
This feature is currently being rolled out in select countries and will appear similarly to how it does on WhatsApp, next to the message sending window.
Custom Nicknames
Users can now set custom nicknames for themselves or their contacts in private chats (your contact will be aware of the nickname you assign, just like in Messenger).
These nicknames help with recognizing contacts, especially when usernames are long, complex, or filled with emojis. To set a nickname, tap on the chat name at the top of the conversation, then select the Nicknames tab. This feature officially became available yesterday, but it might take a few more hours to activate for some users.
New Sticker Packs
Lastly, Instagram has introduced 17 new sticker packs, adding up to a total of 300 fresh designs to make conversations more expressive. This update allows users to add stickers to their favorites for quick access. Additionally, the platform has revamped the interface to make it clearer and more user-friendly.
Hi, my name is Disha and I’m a passionate writer and editor at “Jason Deegan”. With a keen interest in all things tech, I strive to bring you the latest news and updates from the world of high-tech.