Instagram releases a new WhatsApp-like live-location sharing feature

Instagram has recently released a set of new features, including live-location sharing. Now, users will be allowed to DM live-location to their friends.

In Short

• Instagram brings real-time location sharing feature
• By default, the shared locationn lasts 1 hour
• The social media channel has also introduced 17 new sticker packs and the ability to add nicknames

Instagram is now allowing users to share their live-locations with friends. While this feature is already being used on other social media channels, it is new to Instagram. The feature works within Instagram’s direct messages, which also gets a few other new features, including sticker packs and nicknames.

Now in your DMs, you can share your live location for up to 1 hour or pin a spot on the map to coordinate arrival times, activities or find each other in crowded spaces - perfect for concerts, outings, or other gatherings with friends. Spend more time together, and less time coordinating.

Instagram’s live-location feature lets you share your real-time location privately through DMs, either in one-on-one or group chats. It is off by default, lasts for one hour, and can only be viewed by participants in the specific chat—ensuring it cannot be forwarded elsewhere. A visible indicator at the top of the chat reminds you when live location sharing is active, and you can stop sharing at any time. This feature is designed with privacy in mind, making it a safe way to share your location with trusted friends or family. Always use it responsibly and only with people you trust.

Location sharing features are currently only available in select countries, but the list is unknown yet.

New stickers and nickname feature

Instagram introduces 17 new sticker packs, offering over 300 fun stickers to spice up your DMs when words fall short. You can now use favourite stickers directly from chats, making it easy to reuse those shared by friends or created using cutouts. Whether you're expressing emotions or adding flair to conversations, these stickers ensure your messages stand out and stay personal. Time to let creativity shine in your DMs!

Instagram now lets you personalise DMs by adding nicknames for yourself or friends. Use them to share inside jokes, simplify long usernames, or add a personal touch to your chats. Nicknames only appear in your DMs and don’t affect usernames elsewhere. You can change them anytime and decide who can update nicknames in a chat—defaulting to people you follow or limited to just you.

To create a nickname, tap on the chat name at the top of your conversation. Then, tap on Nicknames and the username of the person you want to add a nickname for in the chat.