Instagram brings location sharing feature and more

Instagram is releasing various functions, including a location sharing option. The functions will initially be introduced in the USA, but it is unclear when they will come to Germany. Location sharing is switched off by default and can be activated.

However, according to Instagram, there will be no live real-time tracking. Instead, there will be location sharing that updates the last active location when opening or returning to the app. Similar location-sharing functions are already available on other platforms, such as Snapchat with Snap Map. There, users can share their location with friends in real time and see where friends are currently located, which is not viewed uncritically.

The location can be shared with friends, “close friends,” individually selected people. Location sharing can be specifically deactivated for certain places or people. Parents can control the location sharing of teenagers and are notified when their child shares their location. In addition, the map makes it possible to discover content in exciting places, such as reels or stories from friends at concerts or local hotspots.

“Friends” tab in Reels

In the new Friends tab in Reels, users can see what content their friends have liked, created, reposted or commented on. This should make it easier for users to share their favorite videos, for example. This tab is accessible via a separate area at the top of Reels. It is also possible to hide your activities or mute certain people. The function is now being released worldwide.

Users will also be able to share public reels and posts more easily and add a note. All reposts are collected in a separate tab in your profile, which makes it possible to make your favorite shared content visible centrally and permanently. It is not yet known when the function will come to Germany.

(mack)