Instagram’s Latest Update Copies Features from Snapchat, TikTok, and X — All in One

Instagram has just rolled out a major update, borrowing heavily from its biggest competitors — Snapchat, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter). The new features include a Snap Map-style location sharing, a Repost option inspired by X, and a global launch of the "Friends" Reels feed, clearly modeled after TikTok.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s new in Instagram’s update:

🔁 Instagram Reposts Are Finally Here

Instagram users can now repost public Reels and posts directly to their own profiles — no more using Stories as a workaround. These reposts will appear in your friends’ feeds but won’t clutter your main profile grid. Instead, they’ll live in a dedicated Reposts tab.

Similar to a quote post on X, you can add a comment to your repost, which will appear in a small bubble above the content. To manage whether your posts can be shared by others, head to:

Settings and activity > Sharing and reuse

🗺️ Instagram Map: A Snap Map Clone with a Twist

Instagram has introduced a new Map feature that allows users to share their live location with friends. Inspired by Snapchat’s Snap Map, this feature promotes location-based content and discovery, with a few key differences:

• Location updates only when the app is open

• Sharing is off by default — you must manually enable it under:
  Messages > Map > Settings

• You can share Stories and Notes (short messages) to the Map

• Stories with location-sharing enabled will appear on the Map for easier discovery

Instagram hopes the Map will encourage in-person meetups and local exploration, while also helping creators and influencers promote events, businesses, and more.

🎥 TikTok-Like "Friends" Reels Feed Goes Global

Instagram is also launching its "Friends" Reels feed to users around the world. This feature mimics TikTok’s close friends content format, allowing users to share Reels specifically with their inner circle — a more private, curated experience.  

 

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