Instagram is currently testing a new location-based map feature that closely resembles Snap Map, Snapchat’s popular feature that allows users to share and view their friends’ real-time locations on a map. This new addition from Instagram aims to bring location sharing and social discovery to the forefront of the platform, offering users a more immersive and connected experience.
The location-based map feature integrates directly into Instagram’s existing interface, allowing users to share their current location with a select group of close friends. Similar to Snap Map, the feature will display users’ locations on an interactive map, which can be zoomed in and out to explore different areas. Friends who choose to share their locations will appear as avatars on the map, making it easier for users to find each other, plan meetups, or simply see what their friends are up to in real-time.
xInstagram’s map feature may also include points of interest, such as popular restaurants, events, and attractions, encouraging users to explore new places. This aligns with Instagram’s broader push to integrate more social discovery elements into the app, positioning it as not just a platform for sharing photos and videos but also as a tool for connecting users in real life.
Privacy remains a central focus of this feature. Users have control over whether or not they share their location and with whom. Like Snapchat’s version, Instagram’s map feature will likely have customizable privacy settings, allowing users to toggle location sharing on and off or limit it to specific friends.
As Instagram tests this new feature, it’s clear that the platform is looking to enhance real-time social interactions and offer more ways for users to stay connected both digitally and physically.
