Meta has released a bunch of new updates to its Instagram’s direct messaging functionality. These include the ability to edit a message, pin chats, turn off read receipts, themes, and more.
Edit a message
Users can now edit their DMs (direct messages), but for only up to 15 minutes after sending.
To edit a DM, simply press and hold a sent message then select “Edit” on the dropdown menu. Just like any other chat apps, the modified message will show the label “Edited”. Prior to this, users can only unsend DMs, which is still available as an option.
Toggle read receipts in DMs, pin chats
Got out of sight of one of your conversations? Now, Instagram lets you pin individual or group chats at the top of your inbox. To pin, swipe left or long-press on the chat, then tap “pin”.
Have you accidentally “seen” a certain DM? Users can now prevent that by turning off read receipts in DMs. Simply go to Account settings > Messaging and story replies > Show read receipts > then toggle read receipts on or off for all your DMs.
Themes, favorite stickers, and more reply options
Just like Facebook Messenger, Instagram also now has themes. Simply tap the name up top the conversation > Theme > then choose one of the themes available.
Additionally, users can now save their favorite stickers for easier access. And more reply options are available including GIFs, videos, photos, voice messages, and of course stickers.