Instagram beefs up messaging capabilities, adds emojis

Instagram has announced changes to its direct message capabilities. Yes, one can now message people directly on Instagram as an alternative to WhatsApp, Messenger, WeChat or SnapChat.

Though Instagram Direct was launched in 2013, it’s remained a mystery to most users.

Whether the world needs anymore messaging apps is an interesting discussion to have, what is however clear that the company is simply exploiting its user base with Instagram Direct. The company claims that the direct messaging feature is being used by 85 million users every month.

Read more: Instagram ditches square-only photo format

The new features include threaded messages, in which users can reply to a photo or a video immediately with text and keep the conversation going back and forth on without having to start a new message. Up until now, users could only reply to a photo direct message with a photo.

The other features include the ability to name groups, a quick camera feature to respond with a selfie, and responding with emoji of course.

The changes also come with a new way to start conversations. Users can now tap an arrow next to the like and comment icons under every post. Tapping the arrow allows users to send a post to a friend or group as a message.

Users can also send location pages by tapping the arrow icon in the top right-hand corner.

Instagram Direct – Introducing Improvements from Instagram on Vimeo.