Instagram Direct Messaging Has Been Improved With New Features

Instagram is revitalizing its inbox with new features for editing photos, creating stickers, and creating themes. The company is trying to make Instagram more appealing as a messaging app by offering features that will make conversations more engaging. While some of these features may not sound new, the idea is to remove friction for users that could prevent them from sending a message.

Additionally, the inbox — or DM (direct messages) — is a competing feature for social media apps, including those competing with Twitter/X. While other startups like Bluesky integrate DM directly into their app, Instagram X rival Threads still relies on Instagram’s existing DMs for those who want to connect privately.

With today’s new feature release, Instagram users will have access to a sticker creator in the direct messaging interface. Here, you’ll be able to take a photo from your library and use a clipping of the object to create a reaction sticker. Earlier this year, WhatsApp gained a similar sticker maker. Additionally, you can use the iPhone’s own tool to create stickers that you can use across apps.

Instagram will also let you add stickers or draw on a photo before sending it to a friend. These tools were previously available in the Stories composer, so if you wanted to send an image with stickers or doodles, you had to save the photo and then send it via DM. Now, you’ll be able to apply these edits directly in the chat interface.

Another new feature will let users post a note on their birthday so their friends can wish you well. When they tap the note, they’ll see a cake effect and confetti animation on the screen. Birthday celebrations are a feature that keeps Facebook sticky, even after all these years, so making birthday celebrations a bigger part of Instagram could help users stay engaged with the app despite growing competition from TikTok and others.

Like other messaging apps, Instagram will also introduce new chat themes like “Autumn” and “Sabrina Carpenter.”

Earlier this week, Instagram added a new feature that lets users comment on Stories, which is also intended to increase engagement.