Instagram is enhancing its direct messaging feature, commonly referred to as DMs, by introducing a series of new functionalities that aim to position its messaging platform as a formidable rival to competitors like Apple’s iMessage and various third-party applications. Starting Wednesday, users worldwide will be able to access capabilities such as translating messages in 99 languages, scheduling and pinning messages within chats, sharing music tracks, and several other enhancements.
As Instagram notes, these new features will initially be rolled out to users on both iOS and Android, while web access will be introduced at a later date.
The addition of music-sharing features could prove especially appealing to younger demographics who frequently discover new music through social platforms like Instagram and TikTok. To utilize this feature, users can click on the sticker icon located in the chat composer interface, followed by selecting the “Music” option. This allows for the search and sharing of a 30-second preview of any song from Instagram’s extensive music library in group chats or through a broadcast channel.
Beyond merely sharing tracks among friends, this functionality could provide a valuable avenue for artists to connect with their fans via their social media presence. Instagram plans to officially launch the music-sharing feature with artists JENNIE and Doechii, who will be testing it out in their respective Instagram broadcast channels.
Additional new tools will streamline the use of Instagram DMs as a primary messaging app, including an option for translating messages sent or received in foreign languages, with support for 99 languages available at launch.
There is now also the capability to pin a message, image, meme, or reel at the top of your conversation by long-pressing the message and selecting the “Pin” option. This feature could be useful for keeping vital information readily accessible or simply for enjoyment. (Users can easily reverse the pinning by clicking on the message again and choosing “Unpin.”)
According to the company, users can pin up to three messages per conversation.
In a move to compete with Apple’s iMessage, which introduced message scheduling with the release of iOS 18, Instagram now allows users to schedule messages by long-pressing the “send” button. This function enables you to set the date and time for your message to be dispatched. You can schedule messages up to 29 days in advance.
Lastly, users can now invite friends to a group chat by sharing a QR code. From the invite link in a chat, simply select the new “QR Code” option to send the invitation. This code can be shared in real-time, through the built-in share sheet, or saved as an image to your Camera Roll for future use.
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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