A step towards the Close Friends expansion
For many users who have long been hoping for the Close Friends function to be expanded to include multiple distribution groups, as is already available on Snapchat, for example, this feature could be a welcome alternative. It offers a transitional solution to share content more privately and individually with different interest groups. In this way, Instagram is once again strengthening the community functions and bringing private shares into focus.
Instagram-Chef Mosseri:
Shares are now more important than likes and comments
Availability and story integration
According to initial tests, the group feature will not only be available in the share view, but will also be integrated as a story sticker. This allows content in Stories to be sent directly to relevant groups. The music-only option was recently introduced, allowing songs to be shared without the need for an additional image or video. In addition, the Start Chat from Story function enables direct interactions by initiating messages from a story.
In addition to introducing new features, Instagram is also discontinuing older options. The ability to follow hashtags will no longer be available in the future. Instead, Instagram Story brings highlights to the profile grid as well as a new tab for personalized content.
Instagram sets follow option for hashtags and brings story highlights to the profile grid
Source: onlinemarketing.de
