The Instants feature is seamlessly integrated into the platform’s direct messages (DMs), located in the bottom corner of the inbox. It’s crafted for situations where users want to quickly share a photo privately without it being permanently saved in a chat thread.
The experience resembles Snapchat-style sharing but is built directly within Instagram.
How to send an Instant
To access this feature, users must first update their Instagram app. Once the app is open, they can reach their inbox by tapping the messenger icon.
In the bottom-right corner of the inbox, there’s a stacked photo icon labeled “Instant.” Tapping this icon opens the instant camera.
Unlike Instagram Stories, users are prompted to write a caption prior to capturing a photo. After adding the caption, users can take a photo by pressing the camera button.
Once captured, the image cannot be edited, meaning it is sent exactly as taken. If users are unhappy with the image, they have the option to retake it before sending.
After that, users can select their audience, including options like Close Friends or Mutuals, and then hit the send button. Multiple Instants can be sent in quick succession, with the camera remaining active for continuous use.
How to unsend Instants
If an Instant is mistakenly sent, users can tap an “undo” option that appears right after sending. This removes the image before it’s viewed. However, once the recipient opens the Instant, it cannot be undone.
How to turn off Instants
For users wishing to disable the feature, they can go to their profile, tap the three-line menu in the top right corner, and select Settings. From there, they can navigate to Content Preferences and toggle off the “Hide Instants in Inbox” option.
After disabling, Instants will no longer show up in the inbox, and users won’t be able to view Instants sent by others. Alternatively, users can temporarily pause the feature by long-pressing the Instants section in the inbox and swiping right.
(Edited by : Anshul)
First Published: May 15, 2026 4:23 PM IST
