Instagram’s hidden features that will blow your mind

If you thought you already knew everything about Instagram, think again. While most of us are busy scrolling through stories and Reels, Meta has been quietly rolling out new tools that could completely transform how you use the app.

From smart content sharing to location-based exploration and new ways to connect through Reels, here are three lesser-known Instagram features that you’ll want to start using right away.

These new additions might not be plastered on the home screen, but they’re incredibly powerful if you know how to use them.

"Reposts" feature on Instagram

For years, Instagram users have relied on third-party apps, screenshots, or Stories to share other people’s posts.

Now, the wait is finally over as Instagram has launched a X (formerly Twitter)-like official reposting tool that lets users share someone else’s public posts or Reels directly to their profile.

Once reposted, the content will appear in your followers' feeds and also get its own dedicated “Reposts” tab on your profile.

How to use it

1. Tap the share icon (represented by a paper airplane) on a public post or Reel and select “Repost.”
2. The content will automatically show up on your feed and your new Reposts tab.

New “Friends” tab for Reels

Ever wondered what your friends are watching, liking, or commenting on? Instagram has quietly added a “Friends” tab within Reels, giving users a peek into the content their circle is interacting with.

The feature is like getting personalised recommendations, but curated by people you care about.

However, if you’re not feeling social, you can choose to hide your activity or mute someone else’s interactions from showing up on your tab.

How to use it

Head to Reels and swipe over to the “Friends” tab. You’ll see a custom feed showing what your friends have liked or commented on, along with smart content picks from Blends.

Real-time location sharing with Instagram Map

Instagram’s new Location Map feature adds a real-time, opt-in way to share your whereabouts with specific contacts.

Whether you’re attending a concert, having food at a trending café, or exploring a new city, you can now choose to make your location visible to selected followers.

This feature is especially useful for groups of friends coordinating meetups or for users looking to discover content tied to specific locations, such as geo-tagged Reels from events or viral hotspots.

Notably, the feature is family-friendly and privacy-conscious.

Parents using Meta’s supervision tools will get notified when their teen turns location sharing on, and can also manage who gets to see that information.

How to use it

1. Users can enable the Instagram Map via the settings or location tag on their post.
2. Users can also choose who can view their location, or switch it off anytime for privacy.