Instagram is introducing a range of creative features to direct messages (DMs), encouraging users to connect more through personal chats.
A few months ago, Instagram launched the cutout sticker feature for Stories. Now, this feature is available in direct messages as well. Instagram will allow users to create cutout stickers from photos or videos and send them through DM. This is similar to the sticker feature WhatsApp introduced a few months ago, which allowed users to create, edit, and share custom stickers.
Get creative in DMs ?????
Create cutout stickers from a photo or video and share them on Reels, Stories and now DMs ?? pic.twitter.com/W3kgouVNtt
— Instagram (@instagram) September 6, 2024
Instagram will now allow you to edit photos before sending them via DM to your friends. You can add stickers, text, and effects to your photos before sharing. This feature was also already available for Stories.
Add doodles, effects and text on photos and videos ?? pic.twitter.com/qBuyCpDc42
— Instagram (@instagram) September 6, 2024
Another feature Instagram is rolling out with today’s update is the ability to post a note on your birthday. This ensures all your friends on Instagram know it’s your birthday and can send you birthday wishes. When you set a birthday note, your friends can tap on it to see a cake effect and confetti animation on the screen.
Never miss a celebration with birthday Notes ?? pic.twitter.com/clpkckDTsL
— Instagram (@instagram) September 6, 2024
In addition to all this, Instagram will introduce new chat themes like “Fall” for Your Pumpkin Spice Vibe and “Sabrina Carpenter” in celebration of her new album, which will change the chat interface. With these additions, Instagram is establising itself more as a messaging platform. The focus on messaging is already evident to a degree, as that’s one of the key factors Instagram uses to rank content.