by Google
Instagram is coming with several changes that we can gradually expect in 2025. You've probably already noticed some of them. From a new post format to expanded carousel features, to news in News and Stories – all of these updates promise to improve the user experience. Read on for an overview of the most important news that awaits you!
New post format
Instagram is switching from the traditional square format to a 4:5 aspect ratio for profile posts. This move is a response to the preferences of users who are increasingly sharing vertically oriented content. There are very mixed reactions to this change, as it spoiled the overall visual of the feed for most users. 
Change in highlights
The display of highlights, i.e. selected stories, in the profile will also be updated. The bubbles under our bio are ending, and now we can find highlights in the profile grid. They will be located in a separate “Highlights” tab, which will be marked with a heart-shaped icon, between posts and reels. Profiles will look cleaner, but the question is whether people will want to click through and look for highlights.
Expanding the number of photos in carousels
Instagram has increased the maximum number of photos in a carousel from 10 to 20. This gives users more flexibility, for example when telling extended stories. This feature can also be used by users who like to save memories and add dump posts to their profile. 
Scheduling messages
Forgetting your birthday or needing to send a message at a time when you won't be active? Instagram has a solution! You will now be able to schedule your messages for a specific date and time. Open the Instagram app and go to the messages (DM) section, select the conversation with the person you want to send a scheduled message to, write your message and instead of sending it immediately, hold down the send button for a few seconds. A window will appear with the option to set the date and time of sending, set the desired date and time, confirm the selection and you're done. 
Visible comments on Stories
Previously, it was possible to react to a Story via private messages or with a heart, but Instagram has added another option. The new feature allows users to comment visibly on Stories, increasing interaction and engagement on their profile. Such comments can only be added by users who follow each other and last 24 hours as a Story.
Test your Reel
A new feature called Trail Reel lets you test your new Reel on users who don't follow you before you post it to your followers. About 24 hours after you post your test Reel, Instagram will provide engagement data, such as the number of views, likes, comments, and shares. This information will help you decide whether it's appropriate to share the video with your own followers. It's also a way to reach new audiences.
Never lose important conversations again
Instagram has added another feature to messages. Now you can pin important conversations in your messages section so they stay at the top of the list. This way, you won't lose any important conversations. How to do it? Open Instagram, go to the messages section, find the conversation, swipe it to the left to see the options, and select the pin option. The maximum number of pinned conversations is three.
Instagram is trying to adapt to the needs of users in 2025 and bring new options that will simplify and enrich interaction on the platform. Changes such as visible comments on Stories, scheduling messages, or testing Reels videos are steps that can significantly affect your strategy on Instagram. Follow these news and adapt your content to get the most out of them!
