Instagram Turns 15: New Features You Need to Know About

To celebrate the platform’s 15^th anniversary, Instagram is rolling out a series of exciting updates that are set to inspire creativity while alleviating the pressure that often comes with social media. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, these changes show how Instagram is evolving to meet the needs of its community, encouraging more experimentation, flexibility, and fun.

“I want Instagram to be a place where people come together over creativity. To do so, we need to evolve as creativity evolves. I want Instagram to be a place where you can overcome self-doubt, and just make it, share it, do it anyway”, said Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram.

Here’s a list of updates that the platform has announced:

1. Grid Reordering: We’ve all been there - creating the perfect grid layout, only to realise you want to change it later but can’t. Instagram is finally rolling out the ability to rearrange your profile grid to curate it more strategically. The flexibility every brand has been waiting for to arrange the perfect campaign grid.

2. AI-powered Edits: Instagram’s Edits app is getting an upgrade with AI-powered tools to help users give their videos a fresh look in no time, without the need for complex editing software.

3. Spotify Integration: With the new Spotify integration in Notes, users can now share the music they’re listening to directly in their Notes section. A subtle way to connect on a deeper level with followers who share similar musical tastes

4. Quiet Posts: Instagram is also introducing a feature allowing users to post content to their profile without immediately pushing it to the feed. This empowers users to share personal moments without the fear of judgement or engagement metrics.

5. Trial Reels for all: Brands can test their Reels with non-followers first before deciding to share them with their main audience. This feature has already proven effective, with 40% of influencers posting more frequently and 80% of them seeing increased reach.

6. The ‘Drafts’ Program: To support up-and-coming talent, the new Drafts program is designed to invest in emerging influencers by providing financial and collaborative support, helping them bring their creative visions to life.

7. Creative Campaign: To tie everything together, Instagram is spotlighting the likes of Tyler, The Creator, Rosalía,  Fred Again.., Nadia Lee Cohen, Cole Bennett, Clint 419 and Slawn in a series of films and experiences about the power of a creative chance. A celebration of those who push boundaries and step outside of their comfort zones.

8. Rosalía Font: Inspired by the Spanish singer’s handwritten style, this new font adds a distinctive, artistic flair to Stories and Reels

As Instagram enters its next 15 years, one thing is clear: the focus will be on inclusivity, authenticity, and freedom of expression.  

For brands, the tools are here to amplify your brand messaging by making your content more dynamic than ever.

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