Instagram has rolled out a significant update to its Direct Messages (DMs), positioning the platform as a stronger competitor to established messaging services like Apple’s iMessage and WhatsApp. The latest changes bring new functionalities designed to enhance user experience, including message scheduling, music sharing, and built-in translation.
Enhanced Music Sharing
One of the standout features of this update is music integration within chats. Users can now share 30-second song previews from Instagram’s existing audio catalog directly in DMs, making it easier to exchange favorite tracks with friends. The feature works via stickers and is available in both private and group conversations. Unlike sharing music through Stories, this allows users to engage with tracks directly in chat.
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Built-in Message Translation
Instagram has introduced an instant translation feature that supports 99 languages, eliminating the need for external apps. Users can simply press and hold on a message, then select “Translate” to generate a translation beneath the original text. This feature is particularly useful for cross-border conversations and strengthens Instagram’s global reach.
Pinned Messages for Quick Access
Keeping track of important messages in a busy chat is now easier with Instagram’s new pinned messages feature. Users can pin up to three messages—whether text, images, or Reels—to the top of any conversation thread. This update is particularly useful for group chats, where important details can easily get buried under newer messages. Pinning is as simple as holding down on a message and selecting the “Pin” option.
Message Scheduling Now Available
Another long-awaited addition is the ability to schedule messages in advance. Users can now write messages, including text, emojis, and GIFs, and set them to be sent at a later time—up to 29 days ahead. This feature is ideal for remembering birthdays, anniversaries, or sending timely reminders without needing to manually send the message later. It can be activated by long-pressing the send button.
Simplified Group Chat Creation with QR Codes
Instagram has also streamlined the process of joining group chats by introducing QR code invites. Users can generate a QR code for a chat, which others can scan to join instantly. This feature removes the hassle of manually adding members and makes it easier for larger groups to connect.
Instagram Aims to Keep Users Engaged
These updates indicate Instagram’s increasing ambition to make DMs a primary messaging tool rather than just a social media add-on. The platform’s new features mirror those of dedicated messaging apps, suggesting that Meta wants to keep users engaged within Instagram rather than having them switch to competitors like WhatsApp, Messenger, or iMessage.
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While these updates are now rolling out globally for iOS and Android users, desktop users will need to wait, as the web version is still under development. In Pakistan, the features are already available—users simply need to update their Instagram app to the latest version to access them.