Image Credits: Meta
Instagram is stepping up its messaging game with a host of upgrades designed to streamline communication and help users connect in new, creative ways. The popular social platform is rolling out these enhancements globally on iOS and Android, with web support expected later.
A Global Conversation Starter
One of the standout improvements is the new translation tool. Now, users can translate messages sent in foreign languages on the fly—supporting an impressive 99 languages. This feature is aimed at fostering more inclusive and seamless global interactions, ensuring that language barriers no longer hinder conversations.
Schedule and Pin Your Messages
Taking cues from competitors like Apple’s iMessage, Instagram has introduced a message-scheduling feature. By simply long-pressing the “send” button, users can choose a specific date and time—up to 29 days in advance—to send their text messages. This handy tool makes coordinating across different time zones or planning reminders much easier.
In addition, the platform now allows users to pin up to three messages in a conversation. Whether it’s an important reminder, a favourite meme, or any piece of information you need at your fingertips, pinning ensures that these messages remain easily accessible throughout the chat.
Let the Music Play
Instagram isn’t just about texts and photos anymore. The new music-sharing option lets users add a melodic twist to their conversations. Within the chat composer, tapping the sticker button reveals a “Music” option. From there, you can search Instagram’s extensive music library and share a 30-second preview of any song. This feature not only adds fun to group chats but also offers artists a fresh avenue to engage with their fans—early tests are set to feature popular names like JENNIE and Doechii.
A Smarter Way to Connect
Another thoughtful addition is the ability to invite friends to a group chat via a QR code. Instead of relying on traditional invite links, you can now generate a QR code that can be shared live, via the share sheet, or even saved for later use. This small change could simplify the process of growing your chat groups, making it more secure and convenient.
Looking Ahead
With these updates, Instagram aims to position its direct messaging as a more robust alternative to other platforms. By integrating translation, scheduling, pinning, and music sharing into one cohesive experience, the app is clearly targeting users who want a richer and more versatile messaging service. While the current rollout is exclusive to mobile devices, future updates are expected to extend these features to web users as well.
As Instagram continues to evolve its DM tools, users can look forward to a more engaging, customizable, and globally connected messaging experience.
and then