Instagram rolled out its most significant messaging update in years, introducing translation across 99 languages, music sharing, and message scheduling features to its Direct Messages platform, marking a strategic push to become users’ primary chat application.
Why it matters: The upgrade fundamentally changes how users interact across language barriers and time zones, while introducing music sharing capabilities that could transform how people discover and share music through social media.
Technical Features: The update introduces several breakthrough capabilities:
- Message scheduling up to 29 days in advance
- Translation support for 99 languages
- Music sharing with 30-second previews
- Message pinning for up to three items
- QR code group chat invites
User Impact: The new features address several key communication challenges:
- Cross-language conversations become seamless
- Time zone coordination simplified
- Important messages remain accessible
- Music discovery integrated into chats
The translation feature works by allowing users to press and hold any message and select “translate,” making cross-cultural communication more natural. The scheduled messaging system follows Apple’s iMessage approach, letting users schedule messages up to 29 days ahead.
To showcase the music sharing capability, Instagram partnered with JENNIE and Doechii, who are using the feature in their broadcast channels. Users can access music sharing through the sticker button in chat, selecting from Instagram’s music library to share 30-second previews.
The pinning feature allows users to keep up to three messages at the top of their chats, whether they’re important announcements, favorite memes, or shared Reels. Additionally, users can now generate QR codes to invite others to group chats, streamlining the invitation process.
Looking ahead, these updates, like Edits, position Instagram to compete more directly with dedicated messaging apps while enhancing its role in music discovery and cross-cultural communication.
