Instagram takes on Snapchat with new live location sharing, custom nicknames and stickers

Instagram update, Instagram Live location sharing, Instagram new features, Instagram new stickers, Instagram nicknames

Taking on Snapchat’s new location-sharing feature, Instagram has also added several new features to its Direct Messaging (DM) feature, including live location sharing, nicknames and more. The new tools within Instagram allow users to stay connected and coordinate activities. The new features include new sticker packs, customisation nicknames and location-sharing options.

Live location sharing

Instagram now offers live location sharing within DMs to help users coordinate in real time. Live location sharing is available for up to one hour and works in both one-on-one and group chats. Alternatively, users can pin a specific location on the map for convenience in planning meetups.

Live location sharing is private, visible only to the specific chat participants, and cannot be forwarded. An indicator at the top of the chat will remind users that location sharing is active, which they can stop at any time.

This feature is currently limited to select countries and aims to make coordinating activities like concerts and group outings easier while maintaining user privacy.

New stickers in DMs

Instagram has added 17 new sticker packs and over 300 new stickers that users can share in DMs. The updated sticker tray enables quicker access to these options. Users can also favourite stickers shared by others or those created using cutouts for reuse. These features are designed to simplify and add creativity to conversations.

Customisation nicknames

Instagram has added a new nickname feature that lets users assign personalised names to themselves or friends within DM conversations. These nicknames appear only in the chat and do not affect usernames across Instagram. To create a nickname, users can tap on the chat name, select “Nicknames,” and choose the friend for whom they want to set it.

By default, the ability to change nicknames is available to people users follow. However, users can adjust these settings to allow only themselves to make changes.

Rollout details
These new features, including stickers, nicknames, and location sharing, are being gradually introduced to Instagram users worldwide.