San Francisco, CA – Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has rolled out new features for both the Instagram and Threads apps. These updates include enhanced direct messaging capabilities and in-app gestures for quicker interactions on Threads.
Instagram users now have access to new DM features, such as the ability to edit messages within 15 minutes of sending them, pinning up to three messages to the top of their inbox, and disabling read receipts for direct messages. Additionally, users can select from new chat themes and save their favorite stickers. These features, previously available to a select group of users, are now accessible to users worldwide. Meta aims to improve user connectivity with friends and provide more control over the messaging experience.
Threads, an Instagram companion app, introduces new gestures that allow users to quickly like or hide posts in the For You tab. Users can swipe right to like a post or swipe left to hide it. However, it remains unclear if these gestures will be expanded to other sections of the app in the future.
In a recent report by 9to5Mac, it was revealed that Instagram has been testing an App Clip feature to enable users to experience the Reels short video platform without installing the Instagram app. Furthermore, an update to the Instagram app on iOS now includes a Lock Screen widget that opens the Story Camera with a single tap.
Both the Instagram and Threads apps are available for free on the App Store, encouraging users to download the latest versions to access the new features and enhancements.
Overall, the updates from Meta demonstrate a continued effort to innovate and enhance user experiences on their platforms. With new features and improvements, users can enjoy more seamless and interactive messaging and social media interactions.