Instagram now allows reposting other people's Stories, but only when the user themself is mentioned in it. When tagged in a friend's story, they'll have the option to repost it instantly — a feature that's oddly been missing from the service since it was launched.
Instagram @Mention Sharing
Instagram calls it @mention Sharing, and it's automatically enabled the moment a person is mentioned in a story. A pop-up will appear stating, "Mentioned users may repost this story for 24 hours" and the person tagged will receive a notification via direct message along with an option to "Add This to Your Story." Simply tap it, put in additional text or stickers if necessary, then hit share.
Once published, other users will see where the post originally came from and even tap the username to view their profile.
Unfortunately, the update only applies to public accounts. If a private account tags one of their friends in a story, they won't have the option to repost it, which is probably for the best. After all, there's a reason why they set the profiles private in the first place.
The feature is now available as part of Instagram version 48 on Android and iOS.
Other Instagram News
In case you haven't heard, Instagram is apparently trying to be the next YouTube. New rumors say the app could soon allow users to post hour-long videos on the platform.
Currently, videos are limited to a minute, but it appears Instagram is ready to evolve from being a social media company into a full-blown content channel — rumors say it's apparently working with several content creators to discuss their support in promoting this new feature. It's hard to Imagine that Instagram will be the new Netflix, but it appears this is the route it's taking. Just for comparison, Facebook also unveiled a tab called Watch dedicated to video — apparently Facebook's own attempt to copy YouTube — but it hasn't really taken off since it was launched last year.
Instagram also introduced the mute button last month, a feature that allows users to mute accounts without unfollowing them.
Also, CEO Kevin Systrom recently revealed on Twitter that the company was working on a feature that'll track how much time a user spends using the app. The "Usage Insights" feature is part of a broader plan to encourage healthier social media usage and management. Systrom also challenged other companies to implement similar measures to help people curb their internet addiction.
Thoughts on Instagram's new features? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound off in the comments section below!
