Explore by topic or channel
Instagram’s ‘Explore’ tab has always been pretty good at showing you new content based on the photos and videos you like, but the randomised collage layout can seem disorganised and tricky to follow. The good news is, you can now explore by topic.
Instagram’s clever AI picks up on the photos and footage you engage with, and groups these into relevant topics that you can search through. You’ll see these displayed along the top of your screen, next to the ‘For You’ box.
What you see is personalised to your interests. It’s a much more effective way to find the things that interest you than following hashtags. Go ahead and give it a go!
Video chat with friends
Yes, you read right, video chat is on Instagram. Until now, many users have been using live video to talk with friends, but that’s set to change. With the new update, you’ll see a brand new camera icon appear in your direct messages. Tap it, and get chatting to your mates.
It won’t stop you from finding new posts, either. Minimise the video chat so that it appears as a small window on your screen, letting you see and talk to your mates while you scroll, follow and like away.
Enjoy some amazing AR camera effects
For the past year, Facebook (Instagram’s owners) has encouraged developers to create their own augmented reality filters for the app. And now, Instagram users themselves are being encouraged to get creative. Not only that, but Instagram is developing AR as a way for users and influencers to engage with their followers.
Let’s say you’re an animal lover and your favourite dog’s Instagram account (yep, it’s a thing) has just released a funny AR filter – then only you and other followers will be able to use it when you want to share a photo. And if you’re looking to grow your own follower base, your followers’ friends will be able to find you when they see your filter being shared. Keep your eyes peeled for this AR feature, coming soon!
Share your Spotify and GoPro activity
It’s always good to find a new song or album recommendation on Instagram, but sharing the track you’re listening to on Spotify has always involved screenshots and cropping. By which point, the song is over.
Well thanks to improved cross-app integration, you’ll have the option to share what you’re listening to direct from Spotify, So you can be more spontaneous and get your followers into that soundtrack you have on loop.
Adventurers and adrenaline junkies will be also able to share their GoPro footage directly onto Instagram, so expect to see more action-filled footage in the near future.
What do you think of the new features? Are you excited to video chat to your mates, or were you already settled in story mode? Post a comment below and let us know.