Instagram Map: New Feature to Compete with Snapchat

Instagram Launches New Map Feature and Reposts

Instagram is introducing Instagram Map, a novel function enabling users to share their recent activity location with contacts and uncover content categorized by location. Simultaneously, the Meta-owned platform is releasing Reposts and expanding the global availability of the “Friends” tab within Reels.

Instagram Map: A Familiar Concept

The new map feature mirrors a popular element from Snapchat, following Instagram’s previous adoption of Snapchat’s Stories format in 2016. Instagram is directly challenging Snap Map, which currently boasts over 400 million monthly active users and remains a central component of the Snapchat experience.

It’s important to note that location sharing on Instagram Map is disabled by default. A user’s location is only updated when the application is actively open, preventing continuous, real-time tracking.

Location Sharing Options

While Snap Map offers options for both app-open and real-time location updates, Instagram currently provides real-time location sharing exclusively through Direct Messages (DMs). However, this sharing is limited to a maximum duration of one hour, unlike the indefinite sharing available on Apple’s Find My and Snap Map.

Enhancing Social Coordination

Instagram anticipates that the new map will simplify coordination among friends for meetups. Users can also explore location-specific content shared or interacted with by their friends and preferred content creators.

For instance, a friend’s story from a local music festival will be visible on the map. Similarly, a creator’s Reel showcasing a new restaurant in your area will be discoverable through Instagram Map.

Regardless of location sharing preferences, the map allows exploration of location-based content.

Introducing Notes on the Map

The map also supports the posting of brief messages, known as “Notes,” for others to view. Instagram Notes, previously appearing at the top of the direct messaging feed, can now be published directly on the map.

This feature may also attract users previously familiar with Zenly, a social map application acquired and subsequently discontinued by Snap in 2023.

The Instagram Map is initially launching in the United States, with a wider global rollout planned soon. Access to the map is available at the top of the DM inbox.

New Reposts Feature

Instagram’s new “Reposts” feature draws inspiration from TikTok’s functionality and introduces a “retweet”-like option, similar to that found on X (formerly Twitter). This allows users to share public Reels and feed posts.

Reposts will appear in friends’ feeds and are also showcased in a dedicated “Reposts” tab on the user’s profile. Instagram believes this feature will facilitate the sharing of interests and broaden the reach of content creators.

To repost content, users simply tap the repost icon. They can also add a personal note to the repost by utilizing the on-screen thought bubble and saving the update.

Global Expansion of the “Friends” Tab in Reels

The “Friends” tab in Reels, previously available only in the United States, is now being released globally. This tab displays public Reels that friends have liked, commented on, reposted, or created.

Users seeking greater privacy can opt out of having their interactions displayed in the Friends tab. They can hide their likes, comments, and reposts, and even mute interactions from specific individuals they follow.