Instagram adds an interactive map and new location sharing options with friends within the app, a move that seeks to connect plans and places between contacts without leaving the platform.
The deployment comes surrounded by debate: The use of location is optional, customizable and can be disabled at any time, but users and experts warn of risks if permissions are not configured correctly.
What is the new Instagram map and how does it work?
The map integrates content with a place label and, if you choose, allows you to share your last active location or your real-time location with a specific group of people on Instagram.
According to Meta, the function is disabled by default and it will only work if you give it permission; plus, your audience can be limited to friends who follow each other, best friends, a custom list, or no one.
Another privacy key: the position is not updated continuously, but when you open the app or it returns to the foreground, reducing unnecessary exposure.
Even if you choose not to share your location, You can explore the map to see posts, stories, reels, and notes with tagged locations. from your contacts, usually visible for 24 hours after publication.
Where to find it and how to turn it on or off
Access is simple: Open your direct message inbox and tap the Map button at the top (globe icon). From there you can manage permissions and visibility.
To review the location settings step by step, follow this setup tour:
- DMs > Map > settings icon (gear).
- Activate location services and open the phone settings if necessary.
- On iPhone, choose: Never, Ask next time, When using the app or Always.
- On Android, adjust location permissions for Instagram in the appropriate section of the system.
If you don't want to appear to anyone, you can completely disable the map or set your visibility to “Nobody” in: Settings & Activity > Story, Live & Location > Share location on Instagram Map > Nobody.
For availability, The innovation is active in the United States and will be rolled out progressively. in more regions in the coming weeks.
Sharing your location in a chat: step by step
In addition to the map, You can send your real-time location in a direct message with limited duration, ideal for one-off meetings.
- Enter the chat and tap "Add" on the bottom.
- Choose "Location"; the real-time option lasts up to 1 hour.
- press “Share your location”; will be sent as a message with a map.
- Toca “View location” to expand and check the remaining time.
- Whenever you want, press “Stop sharing location” to cut off the shipment.
The location feature in chats is not available on desktop. and it may vary by device, but it always remains disabled until you enable it.
Privacy, security and parental controls
The news has generated criticism on social networks, with users concerned about exposing their locationThe company insists it's an opt-in feature with fine-grained audience controls.
To reinforce security, You can block specific people or exclude areas where you do not want your position to be displayed, as well as turning off the map when you do not need it.
In supervised accounts, Parents receive notifications if a minor starts sharing their location and can limit or disable this ability from family controls.
A practical recommendation: Avoid tagging locations while you are still there unless it is essential. and periodically review your permissions and audience list.
Differences with other maps and what appears on yours
Instagram's proposal reminiscent of Snap Map or WhatsApp and Google Maps location, but with an emphasis on audience control and less continuous updating.
On the map they may appear Stories, posts, reels, and notes with a location tag from accounts you follow or that you mutually follow; ephemeral content typically persists for 24 hours.
If you turn on real-time location, Only those you have authorized will see your position.; if you don't activate it, you can still explore recommendations and nearby plans.
All in all, experience gives more context to what your contacts share, without forcing you to broadcast your own location if you don't feel comfortable doing so.
The arrival of the map and location sharing on Instagram consolidates the trend of integrating geolocation functions into social networks; The key is to configure permissions well, choose the right audience, and activate the feature only when it is useful to you., maintaining control at all times.