Instagram is testing a new feature that could give Story highlights their own dedicated tab on user profiles, similar to how Reels are organized. According to social media expert Lindsey Gamble, this update aims to make profiles cleaner and more flexible for creators and casual users alike. The feature, currently in its testing phase, could roll out as early as Tuesday, although Instagram has not made any official announcements. Below, we shall talk more on the Instagram Story Highlights Update in further detail.
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Instagram Story Highlights Update:
Instagram’s Effort to Simplify Profiles
The new layout being tested by Instagram aims to organize Story Highlights into a dedicated tab, similar to how Reels are displayed. According to social media expert Lindsey Gamble, this update will allow users to better manage their highlights by choosing what remains visible on their profile while removing unnecessary items from the main grid. This change could lead to cleaner and more streamlined profiles for both creators and casual users.
Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri explained the rationale behind the update during an AMA session. He emphasized the platform’s goal of improving profiles by simplifying the layout and making more content visible above the fold. However, Mosseri acknowledged that implementing such changes can be challenging and may not resonate well with everyone. He referred to the update as “contentious” but expressed optimism about its potential to enhance the user experience.
Impact on Engagement
Moving Story Highlights to a dedicated tab could align with user behavior trends. While Stories are widely used, highlights often remain underutilized. By placing them in a separate tab, Instagram could encourage users to explore highlights more actively, potentially boosting overall engagement. This change could also offer users an intuitive way to browse profiles, particularly for creators who rely on their highlights to showcase important content.
Balancing Ephemerality and Accessibility
Some users might worry that this update alters the temporary essence of Stories. However, highlights already serve as a way to preserve select Stories, and this update merely makes them more accessible. By providing a designated space for highlights, Instagram seeks to balance user expectations while improving navigation and usability.
Uncertain Future
As this feature remains in the testing phase, Instagram has yet to confirm whether it will become a permanent addition. Without an official statement, users can only speculate about the final rollout. Whether this update will redefine how we interact with Instagram profiles or remain an experimental idea will depend on its reception during testing.
This update represents Instagram’s continued efforts to adapt its platform to evolving user needs while balancing simplicity and functionality.