Instagram announces new reel Repost, Maps and more: 5 things to know
Instagram has launched five new features designed to strengthen how users interact with friends and discover content. The update brings reposts for reels and posts, a location-sharing map, and a new “Friends” tab in Reels — all aimed at making Instagram more socially connected.
Repost reels and feed posts with a tap Users can now repost any public reel or feed post with a single tap. The reposted content will appear both in the main feed of followers and in a dedicated “Reposts” tab on the user’s profile. There’s also an option to add a note when reposting. For creators, this opens up more opportunities to reach new audiences, as reposts by followers can expand their visibility.
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Share your location with friends using the Instagram map Instagram has introduced an opt-in location-sharing feature. Users can choose to share their last active location with selected friends — including Close Friends or just a few specific people. The location updates only when the app is opened or runs in the background, and can be turned off at any time. Parental supervision tools are also built in for teens using the feature.
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Use the map to discover location-based content Even if you don’t share your location, you can still explore content posted from various locations via the new Instagram map. Reels, stories, and posts from people you follow — tagged with a location — will appear on the map for 24 hours. This makes it easier to find interesting places, trending events, or local updates from creators and friends.
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Check out the new ‘Friends’ tab in Reels A new “Friends” tab in the Reels section highlights reels your friends have liked, commented on, or reposted. It’s designed to spark conversations around shared interests and make Reels feel more connected to your social circle. Instagram is also offering privacy tools to hide your own activity or mute others.
New controls for safer sharing Along with the features, Instagram is adding granular privacy options — especially around location sharing. Parents with supervised teen accounts will get alerts if their teen turns on location sharing, and can manage who the teen is sharing with
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