Menlo Park, CA, February 19, 2025 – Instagram has introduced a suite of new features for its direct messaging system, aiming to improve user engagement and better compete with rival platforms such as Apple iMessage and various third-party messaging apps.
Among the new updates is the ability for users to share music within one-on-one conversations and group chats. By tapping the “Music” sticker in the chat’s sticker tray, users can search Instagram’s audio library and share clips up to 30 seconds long, provided the song is available on the platform.
In addition to music sharing, Instagram has implemented a translation tool within direct messages. Users can now hold down a message and select “Translate” to view the message in one of 99 supported languages. The translated text appears directly below the original, streamlining communication across language barriers.
Other improvements include the option to pin messages, images, or even Reels to the top of a chat. Users can pin up to three items per conversation by holding down the desired message and tapping “Pin.” This feature is designed to help users keep frequently referenced content easily accessible.
Instagram has also introduced message scheduling, allowing users to plan messages up to 29 days in advance by long-pressing the send button. Additionally, a new QR code feature enables users to invite others to group chats, simplifying the process of connecting new members.
The update is rolling out today to iOS and Android users worldwide, while a web version is in development and will be available soon.
These new direct messaging tools add to Instagram’s recent flurry of feature enhancements, which include testing a dislike button for comments, expanding the maximum length of Reels to three minutes, and developing a dedicated video-editing app. With these updates, Instagram continues to refine its platform to meet the evolving needs of its diverse user base.
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