Instagram updates you need to know

Instagram has been busy lately.

And we don’t just mean the usual bugs and glitches we’ve all been battling. Yes, the app’s been a bit of a mess - stories not posting, reels freezing, features disappearing then reappearing. But behind all that, they’ve been quietly rolling out some big updates. Some useful, some a bit questionable, and a few that might just give us the nudge we’ve been needing.

Because let’s be honest, it can feel like a bit of a slog. You’re putting content out there, you’re showing up, but the reach just isn’t matching the effort.

That might be about to shift...

If you're using Instagram for business, for building community, or just trying to figure out why everything suddenly feels different — here’s what’s actually going on.

Monthly performance recaps and growth suggestions
Instagram is slowly rolling out a monthly recap feature that gives you a snapshot of how your content performed - with suggestions on how to grow based on what your audience engaged with.

You’ll get a notification each month with your top-performing posts, a few pointers on what’s working, and even some post inspo based on your niche.

Blend — the shared Reels feed
Blend is a shared Reels feed you create with someone else, based on both your interests. It taps into what Instagram already knows, that most of the good stuff happens in the DMs now.

Great for connection, collaborations, and creative ideas that feel more personal.

Lockable posts
These are still being tested, but the idea is brilliant. People can’t view the full post until they’ve done something, like entering a code in the caption. Perfect for secret launches, early bird discounts, or members-only content.

Reposts for Reels
Soon, you’ll be able to repost Reels publicly on your profile, just like on TikTok. Ideal for creators, and a nudge to create more content people want to share.

Instagram launches its own Edits app — and we're obsessed!
Okay, this one is a game changer. Instagram’s new Edits app is made for short-form video creators - and it’s slick. Clean timeline, fast tools, loads of effects, and just easy to use.

If Reels stress you out, or you want more control without using five different apps, this is the one to try.

Double playback speed on Reels
You can now speed up Reels to 2x playback. Super handy for longer talking videos or tutorials, and just another sign that Instagram’s watching what’s working over on TikTok.

Notes are gone
Not the inbox ones, the little Notes that used to flow at the bottom of Reels. We actually loved those. You could drop a quick message, reminder, or CTA and it would quietly float under your video.

They’ve been removed now as part of Instagram’s “decluttering” plan — which is a bit ironic considering how many features they’re adding.

AI-generated comment replies
Yep, Instagram’s testing automated replies that use your own tone of voice. Meant to save time, but it risks removing that human touch. Personally? We’re not ready to hand our comments over to AI.

DM upgrades

• Schedule DMs up to 29 days in advance

• Pin up to 3 messages in a thread

• Music sharing and translation now available too

Small but useful tweaks if you use your DMs to connect with your audience or clients.

Negative downvotes on comments
This one’s a bit of a wild card. Instagram is trialling downvotes on comments. No word yet on how visible this will be or what effect it’ll have, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

And one last thing — if you like being ahead of the game…

This isn’t an Instagram feature, but it ties everything together beautifully.

The HubSpot Social Media Trends 2025 Report is full of insight into where things are going - and honestly, it makes everything above make a lot more sense.

Two stats that really stuck with us:

• 84% of marketers say people now use social media as their primary search engine.

• 85% believe that community-led growth is what will shape success in 2025.

If you’ve been wondering whether all of this is worth keeping up with, this confirms it. The people who adapt early, who stay open to testing and trying - they’re often the ones who start to see a shift. Whether that’s in growth, reach, or being known as someone who gets it.

Here’s the link if you’d like to read it:
👉 HubSpot 2025 Trends Report

Some of these updates aren’t available to everyone yet, they’re still rolling out. But now you know what’s coming, you can start thinking ahead.

And if you’re feeling behind or unsure where to begin, that’s totally normal. But also, this could be the shake-up we’ve all been waiting for.