Instagram Launches 'Instagram Map' to Compete with Snapchat's Snap Map

Instagram is launching a new feature called Instagram Map, which allows users to share their location with others and discover location-based content. The feature is similar to Snapchat's Snap Map and lets users explore location-based content, leave short messages, and coordinate with friends for hangouts. Location sharing is off by default and only updates when the app is opened. Instagram is also launching reposts and making its "Friends" tab in Reels available globally.

Instagram, the Meta-owned social media platform, has rolled out a new feature called Instagram Map. This feature allows users to share their most recent active location with others and discover location-based content, similar to Snapchat's Snap Map. The new map feature is designed to make it easier for friends to coordinate and link up for hangouts, while also enabling users to explore location-based content shared by their friends and favorite creators [1].

Instagram Map offers location sharing that is off by default and only updates when the app is opened, unlike Snap Map, which provides real-time location updates. However, users can still share their location via direct messages for up to one hour. The map also allows users to leave short messages, or "Notes," for others to see, similar to the short messages that currently appear at the top of the direct messaging feed [1].

In addition to the Instagram Map, the platform is also launching a new feature called "Reposts." This feature enables users to repost public reels and feed posts, which may appear in their friends' feeds and in a new "Reposts" tab on their profile. This functionality is similar to the retweet feature on Twitter (now X) and is designed to help users share their interests with others and offer creators the opportunity to reach a wider audience [1].

Another notable enhancement is the global availability of the "Friends" tab in Reels. This tab allows users to see public reels that their friends have liked, commented on, reposted, and created. Users can also opt out of having their engagement with content shown in the friends tab, providing them with more control over their privacy settings [1].

The new features are launching in the United States starting Wednesday, with broader global availability coming soon. Users can find the Instagram Map at the top of their DM inbox [1].

References:
[1] https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/06/instagram-takes-on-snapchat-with-new-instagram-map/