Instagram has faced criticism after introducing its new "Instants" feature, which many users have described as a copy of Snapchat.
The new feature allows users to share photos that disappear after friends see them, similar to Snapchat's popular format. Meta says "Instants" aims to make it easier to share everyday moments with friends in real time.
However, the innovation has not been well received on social media. On Platform X, some users criticized Instagram for a lack of originality. “It took Instagram 15 years to copy Snapchat’s first feature,” wrote one user. Another commented: “Can there be a social platform that doesn’t try to be like all the others?”
For some users, the problem wasn't just the similarity to Snapchat, but also the unexpected way the feature was activated. One user said he tried to try out "Instants" and accidentally shared a photo while on the toilet.
Meta introduced the feature through a blog post, describing it as a way to share everyday and spontaneous photos, without filters, without pressure, and without editing.
“Instants” is located in the bottom right corner of the Instagram message box. With a tap of the camera, users can share photos with “Close Friends” or with followers who follow them back.
To take a photo, simply press the white button. But users are warned to be careful, as the option to cancel the photo only appears for a few seconds and then disappears, sending the image to the selected people.
Friends can react, reply, and send photos in response, but the sent image can only be viewed once.
Although the feature has only been available for a short time, it has already caused confusion. Some users have complained that they didn't immediately understand how it worked and that the camera would open unexpectedly. One user wrote that he received a notification for "Instants" and accidentally sent a selfie to multiple people.
For those who don't want to use the feature, Instagram offers the option to hide it. Users need to open their profile, tap the three lines in the top right corner, select "Content Preferences," and then enable the "Hide instants in your inbox" option.
Instagram has clarified that existing app controls, such as blocking, muting and restricting users, also apply to “Instants.” According to the platform, photos can only be viewed by people the user chooses: close friends or mutual followers. /GazetaExpress/
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