Instagram, the popular photo and video-sharing app, has announced a slew of new features for 2023 that aim to enhance the user experience, boost engagement, and foster community. From adding multiple links in a bio to creating broadcast channels, from using gifs in comments to browsing reel trends, Instagram is constantly innovating and evolving to keep up with the changing needs and preferences of its users. Here are some of the new features that Instagram has introduced or will introduce in 2023 and how you can use them to your advantage.
Multiple Links in Bio
One of the most requested and anticipated new features on Instagram is the ability to add multiple links in your bio. Previously, you could only add one link in your bio, which limited your options to promote your products, services, or content. Now, you can add up to five links in your bio, which will open up new possibilities for driving traffic to your website, landing pages, blog posts, podcasts, or other platforms. This is especially useful for business owners, influencers, and creators who want to showcase their work and connect with their audience.
To add multiple links to your bio, go to your profile and tap Edit Profile. Then, tap Website and enter the first link you want to add. Tap the plus icon to add another link, and repeat the process until you have added up to five links. You can also rearrange the order of the links by dragging and dropping them. Tap Done when you are finished.
Broadcast Channels
Another new feature that Instagram has launched for 2023 is broadcast channels, which are a way for creators to communicate directly with their fans and followers. Broadcast channels are different from direct messages, as they are meant to be read and reacted to, but not replied to. They are also different from stories, as they are not ephemeral and do not disappear after 24 hours. Broadcast channels are similar to newsletters, as they allow creators to share updates, announcements, tips, or exclusive content with their subscribers.
To create a broadcast channel, go to your direct messages and tap the compose icon. Then, tap Broadcast Channel and give your channel a name and a description. You can also choose an emoji to represent your channel. Tap Next and select the people you want to invite to join your channel. You can invite up to 100 people at a time. Tap Send Invites to send a one-time notification to your invitees. Once they join, they will receive your broadcast messages in their direct message inbox.
To send a broadcast message, go to your direct messages and tap your broadcast channel. Then, tap the compose icon and type your message. You can also add photos, videos, stickers, or polls to your message. Tap Send to send your message to your subscribers. You can see how many people have seen and reacted to your message by tapping the eye icon or the heart icon.
Gifs in Comments
If you love using gifs to express yourself, you will be happy to know that Instagram has added a new feature that lets you use gifs in comments. GIFs are animated images that can convey emotions, reactions, or humor in a fun and engaging way. You can now use gifs to comment on posts or reels and spice up your conversations with your friends and followers.
To use gifs in comments, tap the comment icon on a post or reel. Then, tap the gif icon on the right of your text box. You can scroll through the trending gifs or search for a specific gif using keywords. Tap the gif you want to use, and it will be instantly sent as a comment. You can also delete or edit your comment by tapping and holding it.
Reels Trends Hub
Reels are short-form videos that allow you to create and share entertaining content on Instagram. Reels are one of the most popular features on Instagram, as they enable you to showcase your creativity, talent, or personality and reach a wider audience. However, sometimes you may not know what to post for your next reel or what kind of content is trending on the platform. That’s where the reel trends hub comes in handy.
The reels trend hub is a new feature that lets you browse the top trending audio, hashtags, and topics on reels. You can use the reel trends hub to get inspired, discover new content, or join the latest challenges. You can also see how other creators are using the same audio, hashtag, or topic and learn from their techniques or styles.
To access the reels trends hub, go to the explore tab and tap the reels icon. Then, tap the trends icon in the top right corner. You will see a list of the most popular audio, hashtags, and topics on reels. Tap any of them to see the reels that use them. You can also tap the plus icon to create your reel using the same audio, hashtag, or topic.
Other New Features
Besides the above-mentioned features, Instagram has also introduced or will introduce some other new features for 2023, such as:
- Text app: a new standalone app that lets you create and share text-based content on Instagram. You can use the text app to write captions, stories, bios, or messages using different fonts, colors, backgrounds, and stickers. You can also import text from other apps or websites and edit it using the text app. The text app is designed to make writing easier and more fun on Instagram.
- Collabor: A new feature that lets you co-create and co-edit posts or reels with another creator. You can use Collaborate to partner with someone you admire, work with a brand, or join a campaign. When you use Collab, both of you will be credited as the authors of the post or reel, and both of you will be able to see the likes, comments, and saves.
- Live Rooms: A new feature that lets you go live with up to three other people on Instagram. You can use live rooms to host a talk show, a Q&A session, a tutorial, or a performance with your friends, guests, or fans. You can also raise money for a cause, sell products, or earn badges from your viewers using live rooms.
Instagram is constantly adding new features to improve the user experience and keep up with the competition. As an Instagram user, you should keep yourself updated with the latest features and learn how to use them effectively. By doing so, you can enhance your Instagram presence, grow your audience, and have more fun on the platform.
