Instagram Introduces Live Location Sharing in Direct Messages: Here’s How It Works

Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to share their current location with others through direct messages. Here is how the feature works

The new beta of Instagram, which just received a critical software update (Version 2.24.25.7) for Android devices, is said to allow users to share their current location with others in real time. This new service is intended at making it easier for individuals to meet up with friends in busy places or areas and to enhance real time interactions and management. By providing live sharing of locations, Instagram intends to go head to head with services such as Apple’s Find My and Snapchat’s Snap Map.

How does it work to share live location in DM on Instagram?

Another feature offered by Instagram which has drawn a lot of interest is the ability for users to transmit their real-time locations in specific direct messages (DMs) to other users. Particularly, this feature is well-suited for making plans with friends, or family, and letting them know where you are at any given moment.

Key Highlights:

• Users are able to send out their current location in either 1:1 or 1:n chat for a maximum of 60 minutes.
• This feature can be utilized only in the specific group that provided the location.
• A pop-up notification will be there to alert the user of their current location.
• The feature can be turned off at any point in time.
• Countries where the feature is presently accessible have plans to roll it out across Europe and America in the upcoming months.

Live Location in Instagram DMs: A Guide

1. Opening DMs: Open Instagram and direct message someone or enter a group chat.
2. Locate the Icon: Click on the location-sharing icon included in the chat options.
3. Specify the Time: Choose to live share your location for one hour maximum.
4. Option to Stop Anytime: Switch off the sharing option when you no longer want to share your location.

Instagram’s Location Feature in Chat: What’s the Worst That Could Happen?

• Time-saving: Reduces time spent on arranging when to us meet at a certain place.
• No fear of forwarding: Limited to the particular chat and cannot be forwarded elsewhere.
• Users’ Choice: Users can stop sharing their location at most times.
• Live location: Perfect for telling someone when they need to get to the location in the event of an impatient crowd.

In-App Messaging Features of Instagram

Instagram is not only working on improving how users share their locations but has also launched new messaging features that facilitate the interaction between users.

1. Stickers for Chats

• More than 300 stickers can be found on 17 sticker packs.
• Users can stick to their friends’ stickers creations or even make their stickers.

2. Nicknames for Friends

• Contacts in the private chats can have nicknames that you can change.
• Tap a contact’s name in a conversation, choose “Nicknames”, and enter the desired name in order to set a nickname.

Why Instagram’s Update is different from all the rest

Instagram has its location sharing function that is a cut-throat competitor to the Apple and Snapchat devices. Having introduced this function, Instagram provides an opportunity for its users to easily organize within the DMs without the need of other apps.

What Enhancements will be Available in the Future

Currently, besides live location sharing, Instagram is looking into:

• Enabling users to share full sticker packs.
• Developing a feature that enables users to search for image from the internet.
• Sharing contacts across different devices.

These updates are fashion so as to inform users that Instagram has more updates in the pipeline that will enhance user experience and messaging features of the app.

Unlike other platforms, Instagram’s live location-sharing feature allows one to share their location whilst still maintaining their privacy. It also, together with new stickers and nickname options, enhances the app’s chat functions. If you have bad reception when arranging a meeting with friends or are constantly on the go, this feature is the one for you.