Instagram Launches "Instants": A New Way to Share Disappearing Photos
Instagram has globally released a new feature called "Instants," designed for sharing photos that vanish after being viewed.
How It Works
The feature is located in a mini photo stack at the bottom-right corner of the inbox. When a user taps the shutter button, the photo is automatically sent to everyone on their "Friends" list by default.
To limit recipients, users must manually switch to "Close Friends" before taking a photo.
Instants disappear after viewing, and there is no viewers list. Reactions and replies to Instants are kept private.
The "Undo" Option
An "Undo" option appears briefly after a photo is sent. Additionally, users can delete an Instant from the archive to unsend it to friends who haven't yet opened it.
User Concerns
Some users have reported issues with the feature, including:
- Accidentally sending photos to unintended recipients due to the automatic sending mechanism.
- Not being aware that a photo was sent at all.
How to Disable Instants
You can hide the Instants feature in two ways:
-
Via Settings:
- Go to your profile.
- Open the three-line menu (top right) to access Settings.
- Scroll to "Content Preferences".
- Toggle "Hide Instants in Inbox" on.
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Quick Swipe:
- Alternatively, hold down the Instants stack and swipe right to temporarily stop receiving Instants.