Instagram's Newest Update: All You Need to Know

Elevated Magazines
Mar 20
5 min read

Instagram dropped a huge update, and, to be honest, it's revolutionizing everything when it comes to our content performance and engaging with individuals on the platform. Regardless of whether you're a content creator, small business owner, or simply someone who enjoys staying in the know, it's worth taking a look at these drastic updates. What has changed and how you can continue to grow your presence is explained below.

Algorithm Changes: What's New?

What's being discussed a lot is that the new algorithm prefers genuine engagement and how long individuals actually view your posts. It doesn't have to do with racking up a large number of likes or hasty emojis in the comments section. If you're initiating genuine conversations—like asking genuine questions or posting stories that encourage individuals to reply with more than two words—Instagram's going to be more inclined to expose your content to more individuals.

I was caught off guard when I realized that my normal short captions weren't cutting it anymore. Now, when I pose open-ended questions or tell a personal anecdote that sparks discussion, I notice a tremendous difference in engagement. It's more genuine and less "spammy," a relief to be certain.

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Reels Enhancements: Giving Short Videos More Power

Let's be real: Reels have been trending for a bit now. With the latest update, they've become even more so.

You can now make Reels up to 3 minutes long, providing you with more breathing space to post an entire story.
They've added more powerful editing tools, like speed adjustments and new transitions, so you don't have to jump between apps to make something great.
The voice-over and music library features were also enhanced, which is wonderful if you like to experiment with sound.

I've begun experimenting with 2-3 minute Reels to publish bite-sized tutorials and, strangely enough, people really like them. I was afraid that they'd scroll by if my videos were too lengthy, but if the content's actually useful or humorous, viewers hang in there.

Creative Tools: Additional Methods of Personalizing Content

Another sweet treat is a set of new innovative features that make your posts pop:

AI-powered filters that appear significantly more realistic (and, at times, slightly unnerving, in a positive manner).
Polls and quizzes that are no longer exclusive to Stories—you can toss them into normal posts as well.
Interactive stickers that react to user interaction, so they'll do cool things when users engage with your post.

I experimented with using one of the new interactive stickers in a post I put up about my morning routine (I know, so original…), and it was sorta cool seeing it transform as people tapped on it. It made the content feel present in the moment.

Engagement Metrics: Additional Information for Creators

If you're a data nerd like me, you'll enjoy the extra analytics. Now you can see:

Who's interacting with your posts deeply (followers vs. strangers who just discovered you).
Additional detailed Reels analytics—e.g., where people fall off from watching or if they share your video.
Live interaction, so you do not have to wait for hours to understand how your post is doing.

These made me realize that the majority of my new followers are from random Reels that went viral. It's actually helpful to see what subjects actually get attention and attract people's interest.

For those aiming to grow their impact on Instagram, check out how to increase your influence.

User Interface Improvements: Simplified Navigation

They also made adjustments to the interface so scrolling around would be slightly more intuitive.

The Explore page now shows more content related to what you've liked, commented on, or saved before.
You can access your saved posts and collections earlier (at last).
The DMs were upgraded with additional features such as scheduling messages and pinning conversations, which is amazing if you manage conversations with clients or colleagues.

It's not a huge visual redesign, but these little tweaks certainly make daily usage a little more pleasant. I would miss all the significant conversations constantly, so I'm very glad I can pin them now.

Privacy and Security: Greater Control of Your Account

The users were increasingly concerned with their online privacy, so Instagram added some additional security features:

More robust account verification processes to prevent impostors or fake accounts.
More specific privacy controls, allowing you to decide who gets to view individual posts (nice to have some more control over that).
Improved reporting features in case you come across something objectionable or suspicious.

I do feel slightly more secure knowing that they're getting serious about cracking down on false profiles since I've certainly had my share of suspicious followers previously. It's good to know they're treating that seriously.

Collaboration Features: Simpler Ways to Collaborate with Others

If you collaborate with brands or other creators, you may be thrilled about these changes:

You can post together so that it is added to both profiles at the same time, and you will both get the views and likes.
Better labeling for sponsored content, so it's very clear when something is sponsored.
Joint analytics so everyone can view the performance of a collab post (no more guessing or needing to request screenshots).

I co-posted with my friend who owns a local bakery, and it ended up doubling our followers because it showed up on both of our feeds. And it was way less effort than having to go tag each other's accounts.

Monetization Options: Increased Earning Potential for Creators

In case you want to make money on Instagram, the update brought in some new possibilities:

In-app tipping on Gifts on Reels, so that your viewers can send you a small tip if they enjoy your content.
New, more interactive ad formats that allow individuals to purchase products directly from a Story or Reel.
More tightly integrated Instagram Subscriptions for creators wishing to provide exclusive content.

I haven't personally used the subscription model, but my friend has, and she's been receiving a steady flow of income from individuals who are happy to pay for behind-the-scenes information and Q&A sessions. It's incredible how many ways there are to earn money these days.

Interaction Enhancements: Alternative Ways of Engagement

Lastly, some tweaks make it even easier to chat and share content:

Disappearing DMs and improved voice notes for more personal convos.
Create group conversations with individual threads for various topics, which is handy for chats to be organized.
Easier sharing to share posts directly to certain lists of Close Friends without having to go into your stories.

I utilize the topic-based group conversations on a daily basis to coordinate events with pals or simply distribute random memes without cluttering up the main dialogue.

FAQ

Q: How does the new algorithm affect engagement?

A: It appreciates interactive engagement. Therefore, if your content is generating a lot of conversations or making people linger longer, you'll be greatly rewarded.