This week, Instagram introduced a new SNAP-like function called Instagram map This allows us users to share their most recent active location with others and discover local-based content.
If you decide to turn your location on an Instagram map, your location only updates when you open the application or have it operating in the background, that means it does not provide continuous real-time updates. This differs from a SNAP map that allows users to choose whether their location is updated only when they open the application or in real time.
Meta says local divisions are by default on an Instagram map. Following worries around safety, Instagram -head Adam Mosseri Reassured users that the function is eligible, and realized that some people are “confused” about how the function works.
For example, people access the function and then see the map populated with the local information from some users. This is because the feature automatically draws in local tags from newly posted stories or coils that include a labeled location.
It is worth mentioning that this is not new, because Instagram already had local tags visible to users on its map view. However the new Instagram mapping function makes this information facilitate. The new feature could make you rethink if you want to post your stories and coils with local tags (especially if you are still at the site).
For those who want to make sure that their location is turned off on an Instagram map, we will walk you through the steps below.
How to access Instagram map
To access the new feature, you need to navigate to your DMS page (straight messages) and tap the new “map” option at the top. If it’s your first time accessing the feature, you’ll probably see a popup telling you about the new map.
The popup will tell you that no one can see your place until you share it with them, and that you can change your settings at any time.
How to set your local sharing preferences
The first time you open the map, you will see a page that reads “Who can see your location.” From there, you can choose to share it with your friends (followers you follow back), “Your close list of friends, select users or none.
To change your preferences, you need to click on your profile, tap the option settings in the top-right corner, select the option “Story, Live and Location”, and then hit the “Location button”. Here, you will be able to change your settings.
Note that if you have a local division off, others can still share their place with you, which means you can see them on the map.
How to use Instagram map
When you open the application, you will see the places of friends who shared their place with you. You will also see local-based stories and coils of people you follow.
For example, if your friend attended a nearby music festival and posted a story while there, it will appear on the map. Similarly, if a creator you follow, posts a coil on a new restaurant in your city, you can discover it with an Instagram map.
You will still see local-based content on the map even if you have your place off.
You can also leave short, ephemeral messages, or “notes”, on the map for others to see. Instagram notes are the short messages that currently appear at the top of your direct messaging, but with the launch of Instagram map, you will now see these posts on the map if they share with a location.
