Instagram DMs are better than ever. Instead of just sending messages, users can now connect in more versatile ways.
Are you looking for a way to make your inbox more enjoyable? We have compiled the most valuable features to use in Instagram DMs so you can have fun with your friends and family.
1. Instagram Polls
Sometimes in group chats, arguments might start because of divided opinions. Whether you’re making plans for the next vacation or discussing world politics, Instagram polls in messages help you understand the views of every group member.
To create a DM poll on Instagram:
Open the group chat and click the small sticker icon in the bottom right of your typing space. Tap on Poll. Add a poll question and your options. Select Create Poll. The question is automatically sent to the DMs for members to vote on.
This is a straightforward way to decide things and discuss topics. However, the polling feature is only available for group chats with three or more members. You don’t get this feature in personal conversations.
2. Muting Message Notifications
Ignoring people on Instagram is quite simple. People use the Mute feature to avoid unwanted communication. But there can be other reasons to silence your DMs.
Muting someone’s chat does not notify the other person. However, they can send messages, tag you, and forward posts—you just won’t be notified. But if you want to cut off communication completely, you need to block that specific person on Instagram.
Instagram also gives you the options to mute all message and call notifications.
These settings are for DMs in your primary folder. There is also a hidden messages folder on Instagram with requests from unknown people. Users don’t receive notifications from these messages unless they accept them.
3. Message Reactions
Out of words, or don’t have the time to type? Instagram DMs allow users to react to messages and posts shared in their inboxes. You can choose from six main emojis or hundreds of others in the extras section.
The plus option in the reaction bar allows you to choose other emojis. There is a Customize option to change the arrangement of emojis and adjust them according to your use.
4. Sending GIFs and Stickers
Instagram has introduced a feature where users can send GIFs and stickers to other people in DMs.
This makes the chat entertaining and enjoyable, encouraging people to spend more time on the app. So, next time when someone sends a post or shares an Instagram story, react with GIFs and stickers to keep the conversation going.
Tap the sticker icon in the bottom right corner of your chat screen. From there, you can choose to send a sticker or a GIF.
5. Sending Voice Notes on Instagram
Voice notes are a helpful feature as they eliminate the ambiguity and confusion sometimes caused by texts. If you wish to convey your point and tone more clearly, we recommend using the Instagram voice note feature.
Voice notes also save time and eliminate the need to call someone. Users can lock the audio while it’s recording to avoid losing it. You can send a voice note of up to one minute in Instagram DMs.
6. Vanish Mode
It is normal for people to get insecure about their conversations and privacy. If you want to keep your Instagram conversations private, we suggest using the Vanish mode. Here is how to use it:
Swipe the chat up and hold until you enter a chat with black background mentioning You are in Vanish Mode. Have a conversation as intended. To end the Vanish mode, swipe up and release.
The chat is also updated with notifications when someone takes a screenshot or screen records it. Vanish mode ends when one user leaves the chat.
7. Sending Selfies in DMs
Instagram DMs allow users to take and send photos and selfies as replies. You can also use features like Boomerang, Collage, Multi-capture, and many more.
Users have control over whether they want the recipient to replay the selfie or not. You can use the desired selfies and remix the response as well. It is possible to choose pictures from the gallery or take them on the spot.
8. Replying to Specific Messages
You can select a specific message in the conversation and reply to it directly rather than mixing up the conversation. Currently, you can respond to texts, Reels, and posts in text form.
If you are unable to swipe up on content in the DMs, it means you cannot specifically respond to it, such as stories shared in DMs.
9. Forwarding Posts
Creating great content on Instagram might not be simple but forwarding it is really easy. You can forward posts to your loved ones in DMs. If your Instagram is connected with Facebook, you can send these posts to your Messenger contacts as well.
Users can send these posts separately or in a group. The posts you and your friends send each other can also be shared in your own story. Just tap to open the main post, use the arrow to share, and select Add Post to Your Story.
10. Restricting Accounts
Regardless of your account privacy, you can restrict messages on Instagram. This feature puts notifications regarding a restricted account on mute and messages in the Other inbox to keep them away from sight. A restricted account is not actually blocked, but rather limited.
A restricted user can still watch your profile content. To completely remove an individual from your Instagram, consider blocking them instead.
If you feel there has been a mistake, you can unrestrict the account, and it will be back in your primary DMs.
Make Your Instagram DMs Fun and Interactive
Instagram DMs are gaining popularity due to obvious reasons. That’s why many people prefer using Instagram DMs as their primary mode of conversation. There are plenty of interactive options and features to mute and restrict conversations.
The entire concept makes everything secure and private for the users. Despite all this, it is highly advisable to only connect with people that you know exist in real life.
