Instagram is upgrading direct messaging, also known as DMS, with some new features, such as Apple’s Imessage and other third-party apps, that will make messaging systems more competitive with alternatives. On Wednesday, Instagram users will access tools from around the world to translate messages in 99 languages, translate tools to schedule and pin messages to chat, music sharing features and more.
Beware of Instagram. WebAccess will not arrive later, allowing both iOS and Android users to use the new feature.
Adding music sharing could particularly appeal to younger users who often discover new music through social apps such as Instagram and Tiktok. To access the feature, tap the sticker button on the chat composer screen, then tap Music. You will then be able to search for music and share a 30-second preview of songs from your Instagram music library through group chats and broadcast channels.
In addition to sharing music between friends, this option could help artists reach their fans through social media. Instagram will be releasing music sharing features along with Jennie and Doechii to test sharing on Instagram’s broadcast channels.
Other new tools make it easy to use Instagram DMS as your main chat app, including the option to translate messages sent or received in other languages. At the time of release, 99 languages are supported.
You can also pin a message, image, meme, or reel to the top of the chat by holding the message and tapping “PIN.” This is useful for keeping frequently needed information easily out of reach. Or you can use it for fun. (You can undo the pinning by tapping the message again and selecting “UPIN.”)
The company says it can pin up to three messages per conversation.
When we caught up with Apple’s iMessage, which added message scheduling with the iOS 18 release, Instagram can now schedule messages by pressing (holding) the “Send” button for a long time. From here you can select the date and time to which you want to send the message. Messages can be scheduled up to 29 days in advance.
The last one addition is the option to send a QR code to invite friends to a group chat. From the chat invitation link you can select a new “QR code” option to send the invitation. This can be shared live via a built-in sharing sheet. Alternatively, you can save it as an image in your camera roll for later use.
Source link
