Tech Desk 
Aug 06, 2025
Instagram today is launching a new set of features that bring it more in line with long-time social networks like X (formerly Twitter) and Snapchat. As it approaches its 15th birthday, the company is adding a repost button, a friends-only map for locations, and a new Reels tab called Friends.
The main feature is the official repost feature for the first time, which allows users to repost public reels and feed posts on their profile. These reposts will show up in a separate tab for easy access.
Instagram is also adding a creative aspect, users will have the option to include a comment or note in a thought bubble upon reposting, similar to what you would see in quote tweets on X.
The second main feature is the Instagram Map, Meta's version of Snap Map. This new opt-in tool allows users to share their recent location with friends. Once this location feature is turned on, users can explore recent posts by friends and creators at some interesting locations.
Meta notes that this feature also comes with user privacy controls, and parents will be able to manage location sharing on accounts they supervise.
Furthermore, launching globally is a new Friends tab in Reels, which highlights public content that your friends have liked, commented on, or recommended through shared Blends. This allows users to discover trending content in their circle and spark conversations more easily.
