What Has Changed on Instagram?

Have you checked your Instagram feed and noticed that all the effort you put into creating a visually pleasing grid has gone to waste? If so, you’re not alone. Instagram is undergoing a revolution. Meta's social network has kicked off the year by introducing several changes at lightning speed to stay ahead of platforms like TikTok. These updates affect both content creators, who often set trends, and regular users.

In this article, we’ll explore the latest changes in this popular social network, from the evolution of Reels to the new profile design. We’ll also touch on some upcoming modifications expected in the near future.

1. Vertical Thumbnails: The End of the Traditional Grid

One of the most notable innovations, and perhaps the most significant, is the redesign of Instagram profiles, which moves away from the classic grid of thumbnails. Now, posts are displayed in a vertical format, giving more prominence to visual content, especially videos and Reels, which have become the cornerstone of Instagram’s strategy.

This update poses a challenge for users who used to focus on maintaining a visually cohesive profile. Creators now need to think more about individual content rather than the overall look of their profile.

Learn more about the new thumbnails (SP)

A Tip for Organizing Your Feed

Did you know that to mitigate the impact of this change on profile feeds, Instagram allows you to adjust the preview of each post? Here’s how:

• Click on the three dots in the top right corner of a post.
• Select the “Adjust Preview” option.
• Adjust the preview, and the image will be displayed entirely.
• Choose the color of the margins to customize the appearance.

Other Profile Changes

The change in image format isn’t the only update to Instagram profiles, though others are smaller. For instance, usernames are now displayed at the top of the screen, above account stats (number of posts, followers, and following). This ensures that the grid occupies more screen space.

To achieve this same goal, it’s possible that highlighted stories as we know them today may disappear. According to company sources, they might be relocated to a separate tab. We’ll see what Instagram decides.

2. Longer Reels: New Creative Opportunities

Reels have evolved from being limited to 60 seconds to now allowing up to 90 seconds. This provides an opportunity for creators and businesses to tell more elaborate stories or share more in-depth content.

With this extended duration, Instagram aims to make Reels more competitive compared to rival platforms like TikTok or YouTube Shorts, which have also been increasing their time limits. Now, there’s more time to capture the audience's attention and generate interest.

Learn more about the new Reel durations (SP)

3. New Exclusive Reels Feed

In the latest update, Instagram has introduced a feed dedicated exclusively to Reels. This space is designed to foster interactions and improve user experience. Reels are presented dynamically, with the algorithm prioritizing those that receive the most interactions (likes, comments, and shares). As a result, users are more likely to see videos their friends have engaged with.

This new format is a clear strategy to compete with TikTok, offering users a similar short-form content experience while maintaining Instagram’s essence.

Discover how it works (SP)

4. An Integrated Video Editor: The Alternative to CapCut

Instagram is developing a built-in video editor called Edits, currently in testing. This tool aims to compete with successful apps like CapCut, which has become a go-to for creators editing TikToks and Reels.

With this editor, Instagram aims to simplify content creation by offering features such as clip trimming, transitions, filters, and advanced effects. This will allow creators to edit their videos without leaving the app.

More details about Edits (SP)

What’s Next?

These are likely not the only changes we’ll see soon. Meta, the company behind Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, is constantly innovating. Some of the upcoming modifications might include:

• A more vertical main feed: Instagram could fully adapt its main feed to a vertical format to emphasize multimedia content.
• Integration with WhatsApp: Meta is working to create a closer connection between Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp through the Account Center, enhancing user experience and boosting tools across all platforms. Explore its possibilities.
• Attracting TikTok creators: Meta aims to lure creators from the Chinese platform by offering better monetization options and visibility on Instagram. This would be an opportunity for emerging creators looking for new platforms to expand their reach. Learn more.

How Can You Adapt to These Changes?

If these changes feel overwhelming or you think they might impact your Instagram strategy, don’t worry. At Dispromèdia, we are experts in social media management and can help you:

• Create content tailored to the new formats.
• Optimize your Reels to gain more visibility.
• Implement efficient strategies that follow the latest market trends.

Contact us and let our team of professionals help grow your Instagram account.