Instagram Introduces Location-Sharing Feature to Compete with Snapchat
Meta-Owned Social Network Challenges Apple and Snapchat
In a move aimed at competing with services like Apple’s Find My and Snapchat’s Snap Map, Instagram is introducing the ability for users to share their locations with friends via direct messages (DMs). The feature was announced by Meta on Monday, marking another step towards providing users with more advanced location-sharing capabilities.
A Look Back: Testing and Limitations
This development comes as no surprise, given that Instagram was spotted testing a way for users to see their friends’ live locations earlier this year. As a matter of fact, Meta’s other messaging app, WhatsApp, has allowed users to share their live locations with others for quite some time.
One notable difference between Instagram and its competitors lies in the duration of location-sharing. Unlike Apple and Snapchat, which allow users to share their location indefinitely, Instagram is introducing a one-hour limit on location-sharing. This means that once you’ve shared your location, it will automatically expire after 60 minutes.
Sharing Location: One-Hour Limit
When sharing your location with friends or family, you can choose to do so for up to an hour. You’ll be able to see an indicator at the top of the chat reminding you that you’re currently sharing your live location. Additionally, your location will not be forwarded to other chats.
Group Chats and Location Sharing
You can share your location with one person or in a group chat. If you choose to share your location in a group chat, only those within that specific chat will be able to see where you are. This ensures that your location remains private and secure.
Customizing DM Names: Nicknames
Alongside the introduction of location-sharing capabilities, Instagram is also rolling out a feature that allows users to customize names in DMs by adding nicknames for themselves or others. This can be achieved by tapping on the chat name at the top of a conversation and then selecting ‘Nicknames.’
With this new feature, you’ll be able to share an inside joke or simply shorten lengthy usernames. Nicknames are only visible within your DM chats, providing an added layer of personalization.
New Sticker Packs: Over 300 Options
To further enhance the user experience, Instagram is releasing 17 new sticker packs with over 300 stickers that can be shared in DMs. These stickers will provide users with more creative options for expressing themselves and adding a touch of personality to their conversations.
Availability and Future Developments
The new feature is currently available in select countries, although Meta has not provided specific details regarding the rollout timeline or any future updates to the location-sharing duration. TechCrunch reached out for further information on this matter.
Conclusion
Instagram’s introduction of location-sharing capabilities in DMs marks a significant step towards providing users with more advanced features and functionality. By challenging services like Apple’s Find My and Snapchat’s Snap Map, Meta-owned Instagram is solidifying its position as a leading social media platform.
In the coming weeks and months, we can expect to see further updates and improvements to this feature. As always, TechCrunch will keep you informed on any developments related to Instagram and other tech news stories.
About the Author
Aisha Malik is a consumer news reporter at TechCrunch, covering the latest in social media, apps, and technology trends. Prior to joining the publication in 2021, she was a telecom reporter at MobileSyrup. Aisha holds an honours bachelor’s degree from University of Toronto and a master’s degree in journalism from Western University.
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