Instagram’s New Update Brings Privacy Concerns
Instagram’s latest update has introduced two features that many users are calling intrusive. The first, a “Friends” tab, quietly appeared in the app without warning. The second, an upgraded Maps tool, can reportedly reveal your exact posting locations — sometimes down to specific streets and buildings according to some user reports.
The “Friends” Tab: A Peek Into Your Social Circle
While scrolling through Instagram Reels yesterday, I noticed a new “Friends” tab at the top of the screen. Tapping it brought up a pop-up that read: “See what your friends are into, all in one place.”
The feature creates a consolidated feed of your friends’ posts, Reels, likes, comments, reposts, and recommendations from Blends. Initially, it seemed like a minor test feature — but it turns out Instagram has rolled it out widely to users across the platform.
Meta’s Announcement
Meta officially confirmed these changes in a blog post published on August 6.
Why the “Friends” Tab Feels Like Digital Surveillance
The most troubling part of this feature is the “Followers Reels” section, which shows exactly which Reels your friends like and comment on — and vice versa. This level of visibility feels uncomfortably close to constant monitoring, almost like someone is watching every interaction you have on the app.
Instagram Maps: Location Sharing Gets Specific
The new Maps feature is equally concerning. While I haven’t personally seen it yet, user reports claim it can display posting locations with alarming precision. Instagram says it’s opt-in and off by default, but some users have raised concerns that it may enable automatically in certain situations.
CAN EVERYONE STOP TALKING ABOUT THE LOCATION THING.
byu/Lucy-Blake inInstagram
How to Turn Off Instagram’s “Friends” and Maps Features
To disable Friends Activity:
- Open Instagram’s Settings.
- Navigate to Activity in Friends tab.
- Change the setting from Followers you follow back to No one.
- Even if you tapped “OK” when prompted, double-check to make sure it’s off.
To disable Instagram Maps:
- If you have access to the feature, open Instagram Maps.
- Tap the settings icon in the top-right corner.
- Set sharing to No one.
- Go to your phone’s location settings and revoke Instagram’s access entirely if you don’t need location-based features.
User Reactions
Feedback so far has been largely negative. Many users accuse Instagram of copying Snapchat yet again, while others simply want the option to avoid sharing so much personal activity.
FAQs About Instagram’s New Privacy Features
1. What is Instagram’s “Friends” tab?
The Friends tab is a new feature that shows your friends’ posts, Reels, likes, comments, reposts, and recommendations. It also includes a “Followers Reels” section that displays the Reels your friends like and comment on.
2. How do I turn off the Friends tab on Instagram?
Go to Settings → Activity in Friends tab → change the option from Followers you follow back to No one.
3. Is the Instagram Friends feature enabled by default?
Instagram hasn’t confirmed this, but some users report that simply tapping “OK” on the pop-up may activate it. It’s best to check your settings to be sure.
4. What is Instagram Maps?
Instagram Maps lets users view posts based on location. The updated version can reportedly show very specific locations, down to streets and buildings.
5. How do I turn off Instagram Maps?
If the feature is available, open Instagram Maps → tap the settings icon → set sharing to No one. You can also disable Instagram’s location access entirely in your device’s settings.
6. Is Instagram Maps safe?
While Instagram says the feature is opt-in and off by default, sharing your location publicly can pose privacy risks. Limiting access or disabling it entirely is the safest choice.
Bottom line: If you value your privacy, it’s best to disable these features immediately before they reveal more about your online activity — and your real-world location — than you’re comfortable with.
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