Instagram New Features: Meta-Owned App Reportedly Testing A Feature Akin To Snapchat's Snap Maps

The introduction of this location-based feature is in line with Instagram's tendency to adopt ideas from other platforms such as Stories (Inspired by Snapchat) and Threads (Inspired by X).

Instagram is reportedly testing a new feature that is akin to Snapchat's renowned Snap Maps. This new feature will allow Meta-owned Instagram users to share text and video updates on a map based on their location. As per reports, this feature is currently under limited testing in select markets and has already raised some concerns around privacy and location sharing. This feature will let users post content which will appear on a shared map and the map will be visible to a pre-selected group of friends.

The only good news that users have is probably that Instagram's alleged implementation plan is likely going to have stricter privacy policy controls than Snapchat.

A Meta spokesperson, Christine Pai, told the Verge, "Users have to choose a 'specific group of people' to share their location with, such as 'Close Friends or only followers they follow back.'"

Instagram has a reputation for focusing on safety and user control, but the question lurks about the potential of broader location sharing of the mapped posts and the duration for which they will be visible. The Meta spokesperson did not address these concerns, as reported by the Verge.

Pai told the Verge, "Instagram’s feature is currently only available as a 'small test' in a few markets. The tool is opt-in and includes controls over location sharing. 'As always, we are building this feature with safety in mind.'"

Instagram's Repo Of Borrowing Features

The introduction of this location-based feature is in line with Instagram's tendency to adopt ideas from other platforms. Previous examples include Stories (influenced by Snapchat), Reels (inspired by TikTok), and Threads (modeled after Twitter).

This isn't Instagram's first attempt at location-based features. Back in 2012, the platform introduced a private photo map that organized users' photos by location, but this feature was discontinued in 2016 due to limited use.

If the new shared map feature becomes widely available, it could reshape how users interact with location-based content, though it might also spark privacy concerns depending on how controls and sharing options are managed.