Meta launches Instants, a new iPhone app and Instagram feature for ephemeral sharing
9to5Mac • • general
Key Points:
- Meta has launched Instants, a new ephemeral photo-sharing feature integrated into Instagram and also available as a standalone iPhone app, designed for spontaneous, unfiltered photo sharing with close friends.
- Instants photos disappear after being viewed but are archived for up to a year and can be reshared as recaps to Instagram Stories; friends can react and reply directly via DMs.
- The feature prioritizes organic social sharing by allowing users to quickly share casual photos with close friends or mutual followers without edits or pressure, accessible from the Instagram inbox.
- The standalone Instants app offers faster camera access and syncs with Instagram, allowing shared Instants to appear across both platforms; it is currently rolling out on iOS and Android in select countries.
- Instants includes Teen Accounts and Family Center protections such as shared time limits, Sleep Mode, and parental supervision to ensure user safety.