Jeddah : Instagram has expanded its ecosystem with the launch of a new standalone app called “Instants,” introducing a fast and simple way to share disappearing photos with friends.
The feature closely mirrors core elements of Snapchat, signaling growing competition in the real-time social sharing space.
The newly released Instants app allows users to log in using their Instagram accounts and opens directly to the camera for quick sharing.
Designed for spontaneous moments, the app focuses on instant, unedited communication between close connections.
“Introducing Instants, an app from Instagram. Share disappearing photos with friends. Connect with your favorite people over life’s little moments.” Instagram said:
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“To give people low-pressure ways to connect with friends, we’re testing an app called Instants to share casual photos and videos in the moment,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “We’re exploring multiple versions of Instants to see what people like, and will listen to our community.”
One of the key features of the app is its temporary nature. Photos shared through Instants disappear after 24 hours and cannot be viewed again.
“Instants can’t be viewed again once they’re gone, and can’t be viewed after 24 hours.”
The app is built as an extension of Instagram’s existing messaging features, particularly the previously introduced “Shots” functionality, which had limited visibility within the platform.
launching Instants as a separate app, Instagram aims to make the experience more accessible and engaging.
Despite being a standalone app, integration with the main Instagram platform remains intact. Users can still share and view Instants across both apps seamlessly.
Currently available on Android and iOS in select regions, Instants represents Instagram’s latest move to strengthen its position in the evolving social media landscape, especially in areas dominated by quick, disappearing content.