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Instagram, one of the world’s most popular social media platforms with over two billion active users, continues to enhance its user experience with exciting new features. Known for its simple and colorful interface, Instagram became even more popular after introducing Reels in 2020, a short-form video feature inspired by TikTok.
Now, the Meta-owned platform is further improving its functionality with the introduction of live location sharing in direct messages (DMs), among other updates.
The newly launched live location-sharing feature allows users to share their real-time location with friends via DMs. This capability is particularly useful for coordinating meetups or ensuring safety during travel.
Similar features are already available on Meta’s WhatsApp and rival platform Snapchat, which allows users to share live locations through Snap Map. By bringing this feature to Instagram, Meta aims to foster stronger connections and more seamless interactions among users.
Instagram’s live location-sharing feature is gradually rolling out to Android and iPhone users worldwide, with availability depending on the region. For example, users in India have already reported access to the feature.
Sharing your live location is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Update Instagram to the latest version and open the app.
2. Swipe left from the home screen to access DMs.
3. Open a chat with the person you want to share your location with.
4. Tap the “+” icon in the lower right corner.
5. Select “Location” and then choose “Share Your Location.”
Once shared, your live location will be visible to the recipient for up to an hour. In comparison, WhatsApp allows users to share their live location for up to eight hours, suggesting Instagram might extend this duration in the future.
The app has also developed a feature in testing which allows the user to reset the application’s algorithm. Exploring feeds, reels and posts suggested will refresh this functionality to give the user a feed more or less like the new one for the mentioned user. This innovation will address the issue of content recommendations and content curation.
Meta continues to add different tools and also updates on the platform which retains Instagram relevant in the market in the ever-changing social media market environment.
While live location sharing is a convenient feature, users are advised to exercise caution. Avoid sharing your location with strangers to protect your safety and privacy.
Live location sharing and algorithm reset are perfect examples of how Instagram is ready to provide users with an improved experience. Like any other social media trend, they always change and adapt, and for Instagram to remain a favorite, it continues to change as well.
Each of these updates turns Instagram into multiple influential factors for social communication, entertainment and sharing content. From looking for new people and brands to follow to sharing one’s location for the safety of others, Instagram is an app for anyone.
