Instagram has tons of new DM features. This chart shows them all.
Mar 05, 2025 - businessinsider.com
Instagram has been significantly enhancing its direct messaging (DM) features, with over 20 updates in recent months, many of which focus on AI. This shift reflects the platform's recognition of DMs as the primary mode of social interaction among users, moving away from its traditional image-sharing roots. Instagram's top executive, Adam Mosseri, emphasized the importance of DMs in user creativity and expression, noting that the platform is "doubling down" on messaging in 2025. Recent updates include AI chatbots, new music-sharing options, message editing capabilities, and customizable read receipts.
In 2024, Instagram introduced several new messaging features, such as user-made AI characters and AI-generated DM themes. The platform also tested moving the DM button to the main navigation bar to enhance accessibility. As Instagram continues to prioritize creativity and connection, these updates aim to enrich user interaction and engagement. Business Insider has compiled a chart detailing all the messaging updates since March 2024 to help users keep track of these changes.
Key takeaways:
Instagram has released over 20 updates to its DMs, focusing heavily on AI features.
Adam Mosseri announced that Instagram will "double down" on DMs in 2025, emphasizing creativity and connection.
Recent updates include message editing, read receipt controls, AI characters, and AI-generated DM themes.
Instagram is testing moving the DM button to the main navigation bar to enhance user experience.
