Instagram has launched a new feature called “Instants” designed to enable users share spontaneous photos with friends in real time.
The feature, which is rolling out globally, is integrated into Instagram’s direct messages section, while a standalone Instants app is also being tested on iOS and Android in selected countries.
According to Instagram, Instants is intended to encourage casual, unedited sharing without the pressure associated with polished social media content.
Users can send disappearing photos to Close Friends or mutual followers directly through Instagram’s inbox.
The platform said shared Instants will remain stored privately in a user archive for up to one year and can later be compiled into story recaps.
Additional features include an undo option, reactions, replies, and a “Snooze” feature that allows users to temporarily hide Instants from their inbox.
Instagram said existing safety features, including parental supervision tools and Teen Account protections, will also apply to Instants.
