2025 Instagram Updates: Everything You Need to Know

Jan 16, 2025

Instagram is kicking off 2025 with exciting updates; we’re here to break them down for you. From new features to changes in Instagram’s algorithm, here’s how these updates can help brands, businesses, and creators connect with their audiences in fresh and innovative ways.

Let’s dive into what’s new and how it can enhance your social media strategy.


New Feature: Trial Reels (Test Before You Post)

Instagram has introduced Trial Reels, allowing users to publish a reel to non-followers first. This feature allows you to track performance and fine-tune your content before sharing it with your community.

How This Can Impact You:

It’s a fantastic way to experiment with new content ideas, test them and ensure your reels resonate with a broader audience.

Algorithm Updates: What’s New

Instagram’s algorithm is shifting towards prioritizing engagement and video content, focusing on meaningful interactions and watch time (views) as the most critical metric.

How This Can Impact You:

This means investing in high-quality video content that drives longer watch time and engagement through saves, shares and comments. 

New Feature: Schedule Your DMs

Scheduling isn’t just for posts and reels anymore - you can now schedule DMs directly on Instagram. Simply press and hold the “send” button, then pick a date and time for your message to be sent.

How This Can Impact You:

This is a perfect feature for businesses managing customer inquiries or sending timely updates without being tied to their devices and working hours.

New Feature: Collage mode for Stories

Instagram’s Stories now feature a collage mode, making sharing multiple images in a single story easier than ever. This creative tool enhances storytelling for brands and creators alike.

How This Can Impact You:

It’s a game-changer for showcasing products, events, or customer testimonials in a visually engaging way.

Instagram Influencer Marketing in 2025: What’s New

As influencer marketing continues to evolve, Instagram’s updated collaboration tools for Reels are a game-changer. Creators can now co-author Reels more effectively, amplifying reach across audiences.

How This Can Impact You:

Brands should prioritize authentic, long-term collaborations over one-off promotions. 

New Feature: Screenshot Blocking

Privacy just got an upgrade! Instagram now blocks screenshots in DMs when Vanish Mode or View Once is active.

How This Can Impact You:

This feature ensures sensitive content stays private and gives users more control over their conversations.

New Feature: Stories Highlights tab

Stories Highlights are moving to a dedicated tab, just like Reels. This new organization makes it easier for users to browse your top content.

How This Can Impact You:

Your highlights will be more accessible, encouraging viewers to engage with evergreen content. Ensure that highlights are curated to tell your brand’s story effectively.

Instagram Ad Strategies for 2025: What’s New

With Instagram favouring video content and watch times, ads that tell a story and spark engagement will outperform generic promotions.

Expert Advice:

From creative development to execution, Blue Door ensures your ad campaigns drive maximum ROI by leveraging these updates.

New Feature: Reset Your Content Recommendations

Ready for a clean start? Instagram now allows you to reset the content types the algorithm suggests, helping you refine your feed.

How This Can Impact You:

This feature ensures you see content aligned with your interests and business goals, optimized for industry insights and inspiration.

New Feature: Deactivated Account Management

A new category for deactivated accounts makes identifying and removing inactive followers from your community easy.

Expert Advice:

Cleaning up your audience ensures better engagement rates and a more accurate representation of your active followers.


Ready to level up your Instagram growth in 2025? New social media updates are packed with exciting opportunities for brands and businesses. 

Whether you’re looking to run successful ad campaigns or build a strong online presence - Blue Door is here to help.