As the world of digital marketing grows and evolves, social media platforms need to ensure they satisfy the needs of their users in order to stay ahead of the game. Instagram is one of those platforms that is constantly shaking things up. And they’ve recently been rolling out some new features. So today, let’s discuss 7 new Instagram features you need to be using right now.
Now, as usual the new Instagram features are being rolled out slowly, so you may not have access to all of them right now. I have access to a few across my different accounts. I’ll give examples for those ones, and for the others I’ll just share what I’ve learnt.
Ok, here’s the 7 new Instagram features you need to be using right now.
1. Shop Looks from Creators
Ever found yourself following influencers and wanting to know where they got their clothes from? Previously there were external tools that would allow them/us to link to shop our looks.
But with the new changes we’ll be able to shop our favourite influencers’ looks without even leaving the app.
Read all about this change and the influencers selected to test it out here.
2. New Camera For IG Stories
Woohoo this one is my favourite. It was rolled out to my account last week and I’m so obsessed with all the new filters.
You can swipe left for all the recording tools such as boomerang, rewind, superzoom etc.
And swipe right for all the new filters (my fave part). There’s sooo many fun ones to choose from now. As soon as IG stories came out I basically stopped using Snapchat, but one thing I missed was all the fun filters.
So I’m so happy that Instagram has now brought this in. Although, I’m sure this is going to take up a lot of my time playing with funny filters, oops.
3. Create Mode in IG Stories
Now you can type straight into your stories without having to take a random image when you just want to say something.
4. Donation Stickers in IG Stories
Instagram is launching a new donation sticker for Instagram Stories that will let people raise money for non-profits from within the app.
You’ll be able to locate the sticker the same way you usually do and then select through a range of non-profits you wish to raise money for.
5. Creator Accounts
Up until now you could have a personal account or a business account. Now you can also switch to a creator account. These are specifically tailored to influencers. Once you’re eligible you’ll notice a notification at the top of your screen when you log in to IG.
Once you switch to a creator account you will have more control over how your contact details are displayed on your profile. Plus advanced insights which you used to have to go to third party apps to get. And a better DM inbox with the ability to move messages to different folders.
To learn more about Creator Profiles go here.
6. Removing Likes
Ok, so this one isn’t an addition but it’s a super welcome move. Once it rolls out we can all finally get out of that comparison game, and focus on creating and engaging with good quality content. Hallelujah!
Not to mention it will eliminate a lot of the spammy bots and automated likes. Leaving us to connect with genuine followers only. Woohoo.
At the moment it’s just being trialled in Canada and it sounds like the people who have seen the change are loving it. I posed the question to my audience and this is what some of them had to say.
7. Wellbeing Features
Another great move from Instagram is the addition of some features to help improve wellbeing and combat bullying.
- A new “nudge” feature will warn users if they’re about to comment something hurtful. The test stops short of censorship while still addressing bullying before it happens.
- “Away Mode” will encourage users to take a break from Instagram at intense times in their life, like moving to a new school. They don’t have to delete their account, but can still get a break from constant notifications and concerns about how they look.
- “Manage Interactions” will allow users to set limits on how certain people interact with them without having to block them completely. Maybe you don’t want someone to be able to comment on your posts, but still Like them. Or you’re cool with them seeing your photos but don’t want to get DMs from them.
These features will give you so much more control over your overall experience.
And there you have it. 7 new Instagram features for you to start using.
Like with any changes, Instagram rewards users who embrace them and use them quickly. They want the new Instagram features to catch on. So by being one of the first to implement them they will be more inclined to show your content in their feeds.
So as soon as you notice the features become available on your account it’s great to start using them right away.
I only have access to 3 of these new features so far.. do you have access to any?
Let me know! Would love to hear about your experience using any of the updates.
Jade xo
As usual, if you like what you’ve read feel free to like, comment, or share. Your time reading my posts is greatly appreciated.
