Instagram Tests New Map-Based Update Feature

Instagram is testing a new feature that allows users to post text and video updates on a map based on their location.

Users can share this map with specific groups like "close friends" or "only followers they follow back," offering more privacy than Snapchat's Snap Maps.

Privacy and Testing

Currently in a limited test phase, the feature is designed with safety in mind, though details are sparse.

This development follows Instagram's prior efforts with a 'friend map' feature and the photo map from 2012, which was phased out in 2016 due to limited engagement.

Feature Origins

Instagram often adopts features from competitors, such as Reels and Stories from TikTok and Snapchat.

Recently, Elon Musk criticised Instagram’s Threads as a copycat of X and threatened legal action over alleged intellectual property misuse.