Instagram is testing Snap Maps-like feature

Instagram is working on a new feature that allows its users to share on a map using location information. This feature allows users to post text and video updates on a map based on their location, and these contents can be shared with a select group of friends. Users can also see their friends’ posts on the map, so they can have a more interactive social media experience with each other. This move by Instagram draws attention with its similarity to Snap Maps, which was launched in 2017.

Although the new map feature was developed with the security of users in mind, it has some differences from Snapchat in terms of privacy settings. Instagram gives its users the option to share location information only with a certain group of friends, such as “Close Friends” or people they mutually follow. This offers a more restrictive structure compared to the public sharing option on Snapchat. According to the statement made by Meta spokesperson Christine Pai, this feature has been launched as a small test in only a few countries for now and can be used completely optionally. However, there is no clear information yet about when the feature will be widely available and how long users’ posts will appear on the map.

Developing features of Instagram: Location sharing in the competitive social media environment

This new map feature of Instagram was first noticed in February in a prototype phase called “Friend Map”. Last week, some images of this feature began to circulate on social media. Although it has not yet been announced in which countries the feature has been tested, it may be planned to be offered to a wider audience, taking into account users’ reactions and feedback.

Instagram has previously attracted attention in developing new features inspired by rival platforms. For example, Instagram has managed to strengthen its competitive position in the social media field with features such as Stories inspired by Snapchat, Reels inspired by TikTok, and Threads based on Twitter’s format. Now, it seems determined to continue this strategy by developing a structure similar to Snapchat’s map feature.

This new map feature is reminiscent of an old feature that Instagram introduced in 2012, which allowed users to see their photos on a map. However, this feature offered at that time only allowed the user to view their own photos and did not offer the opportunity for social interaction. This feature, which was removed after four years due to low usage, now has the potential to return by offering a more social experience.

Instagram’s map-based sharing feature, if rolled out widely, could change users’ social media usage habits and further intensify cross-platform competition. In particular, this feature, which allows users to share location information in a more secure and controlled manner, can take Instagram one step forward in the social media world. However, whether the feature will be fully available and what kind of user experience it will offer will become clear in the future.