What is drawing attention online, however, is how easily these images can be shared and viewed without users fully realising how the feature works.
Unlike traditional Instagram Stories that stay visible for 24 hours, Instants are designed to disappear shortly after being viewed. The feature focuses entirely on raw still photos and currently does not support videos, editing tools, or beauty filters.
Even though the images vanish after being opened, they are not completely deleted. Instagram reportedly stores them in a private archive for up to one year, allowing users to revisit or repost them later as story recaps.
How Instagram Instants Work
The feature is integrated directly into Instagram’s messaging system. Users can access it through the DM section by tapping a small stack of photo icons located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
From there, users can choose who receives the image, including close friends or selected followers, before instantly capturing and sending a photo.
Once shared, the image appears inside the Instants gallery for the selected recipients. The photos are viewable only once, creating a more temporary and low pressure sharing experience.
Instagram has also introduced privacy focused controls within the feature. Users can unsend an image before it is opened, while screenshots are blocked by default. Interestingly, the platform also does not notify users when someone views their Instant photo.
When opening a direct message conversation, users can see not only their own Instants uploads but also photos shared by the person they are chatting with.
Similarities With Snapchat and BeReal
The launch of Instants has immediately sparked comparisons with Snapchat because of its disappearing photo format and one time viewing system.
Many users online described it as Instagram’s attempt to recreate the raw and casual sharing style that originally made Snapchat popular. Others compared it to BeReal because of its focus on unfiltered, real life moments without heavy editing or algorithm driven presentation.
One social media user described the feature as Instagram’s effort to revive authentic sharing inside private conversations rather than public feeds.
Another user criticised the update, arguing that Instagram was simply copying Snapchat’s model once again.
Some users, however, believe the feature could encourage people to share more naturally online. They argue that removing filters, limiting visibility, and restricting sharing to close friends may reduce the pressure to create perfectly curated content.
At the same time, critics question whether Instants can truly stand apart from existing features such as Stories, Snapchat, and BeReal in the long term.
Say hi to Instants 👋 A new way to share in-the-moment pics with friends. Tap the mini pile of photos at the bottom right corner of your DMs to try it yourself 👀
— Instagram (@instagram) May 13, 2026
Rolling out today. pic.twitter.com/zbhsOA9O9m
Safety and Availability
Meta representatives stated that the same safety systems and nudity policies already active on Instagram will also apply to Instants.
The feature is currently available for both iOS and Android users and can be accessed directly through Instagram’s messaging tab.
Also read: Instagram removes fake, inactive accounts in major cleanup
