Instagram is rolling out a new update to its direct messaging service, aka DMs, to add a handful of useful messaging features. The latest update aims to bring Instagram’s direct messaging feature closer to rivals like Apple iMessage and other third-party apps.
Instagram’s new messaging features make conversations even more exciting
After updating the app, you’ll find a new “Translation” feature within Instagram DMs. Meta says that you’ll be able to translate messages from 99 languages. To use the feature, you’ll have to tap and hold down a message and tap the “Translate” option. Once tapped, you’ll see the translated message below the original one.
Next up, you have the music-sharing feature. As the name suggests, this feature allows sharing your favorite music to an Instagram group or while messaging a friend. To do that, you’ll need to open the sticker tray and tap on the “Music” option. When the search bar of Instagram’s audio library opens, search for the music to share, it’s that easy. Not to mention, the music/song clip you share will max out at 30 seconds.
Speaking of the messaging features, the social media app now allows pinning messages within DMs. You can simply hold down a message and tap the “Pin” option, which enables pinning messages, images, or even Reels to the top of chats. It’s worth noting that the latest update allows pinning up to three messages per conversation for now.
You can now schedule messages and invite someone to a group chat using a QR code
Instagram is also adding a message-scheduling feature with the latest update. You can schedule messages for up to 29 days in advance by long-pressing the send button. Lastly, the latest app update adds the ability to invite people to a group chat, via a QR code.
If you use Instagram on an iPhone or an Android phone, all the above messaging features should be available to use starting today, after updating the app. Meta has been constantly updating Instagram with new features for some time now. Last week, there were multiple reports about Instagram testing a new dislike button in comments.