Podcast Summary: Build Your Tribe | Grow Your Business with Social Media
Episode: NEW Instagram Update! 10 New Features You Haven't Seen Yet - 846
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Host: Brock Johnson

In this comprehensive episode, Brock Johnson delves into the latest updates on Instagram, unpacking ten significant features that can impact businesses and creators aiming to grow their presence on the platform. The discussion is rich with actionable insights, detailed explanations, and strategic recommendations to help listeners navigate and leverage Instagram's evolving landscape.

1. Introduction of Reposts Feature

Timestamp: 00:30

Brock kicks off the episode by highlighting Instagram's latest addition: Reposts. This feature allows users to share someone else's post directly to their own feed, similar to retweets on Twitter or reposts on TikTok.

• Functionality: Reposted content appears in followers' feeds with a small repost icon on the bottom left corner. These reposts are cataloged in a new "Reposts" tab on the user's profile but do not alter the original post or appear on the main profile grid.

• Differences from Sharing: Unlike sharing, which sends a post to specific individuals or groups and disappears after 24 hours, reposts are permanent and can potentially reach audiences days or weeks later.

• Strategy Insight: Brock advises against using the repost button for your own posts. Instead, he recommends reposting content manually by uploading it again to maximize visibility and engagement.

Notable Quote:
"Reposting your own posts using the built-in feature shows almost no difference in views compared to simply posting them again." (00:15:45)

2. Changes to Trial Reels Posting Limits

Timestamp: 18:30

Instagram has adjusted the daily limit for Trial Reels, reducing it from an initial 25 to a minimum of 5 per day. Trial Reels are designed to reach non-followers without overwhelming existing audiences.

• Previous Strategy: Initially, creators were encouraged to post as many Trial Reels as possible to test new content and expand their reach.

• Current Recommendation: Brock now advises limiting Trial Reels to five per day to avoid posting restrictions, which can suspend the ability to upload Trial Reels for 24 hours or even 30 days upon exceeding limits.

Notable Quote:
"If you exceed the Trial Reels limit, your account won't be punished, but you'll be restricted from posting more Trial Reels for a period." (00:22:10)

3. Introduction of the Friends Feed in Reels Tab

Timestamp: 25:00

A new Friends Feed has been added to the Reels tab, curating Reels from mutual followers who have interacted with your content.

• User Interaction: This feed aggregates likes and comments from friends, allowing users to see what their mutual connections are engaging with.

• Privacy Concerns: Similar to past features like the Activity tab, the Friends Feed can lead to privacy issues, such as inadvertently revealing interactions.

• Customization: Users can disable the Friends Feed by navigating to Settings > Activity in Friends Tab and selecting "No One."

Notable Quote:
"The Friends Feed might not be widely used by businesses, but it could pose privacy concerns similar to the old Activity tab." (00:28:50)

4. Launch of Instagram Map Inspired by Snapchat

Timestamp: 30:20

Instagram has rolled out an Instagram Map, a real-time location feature showing where friends (mutual followers) are.

• Opt-In Feature: Users must actively enable the feature to appear on the map, although some reports suggest inadvertent activations.

• Privacy Recommendations: Brock strongly recommends disabling precise location services for Instagram in phone settings and ensuring the Instagram Map is turned off unless necessary for specific business purposes.

Notable Quote:
"It's better to be safe than sorry. Turning off precise location services can protect your privacy regardless of Instagram's settings." (00:34:10)

5. Adjustment to Feed Post Dimensions

Timestamp: 35:40

Instagram has increased the maximum height for feed posts from a 4:5 to a 3:4 aspect ratio (1080x1440 pixels).

• Impact on Visibility: Taller posts occupy more screen real estate, potentially increasing engagement by limiting seamless scrolling past the content.

• Strategic Advice: Brock advises creators to adopt the new 3:4 ratio to maximize visibility and capture audience attention more effectively.

Notable Quote:
"Posting taller content ensures that your posts stand out, making it harder for users to scroll past without engaging." (00:37:15)

6. Transition to Rectangular Profile Grids

Timestamp: 40:05

Instagram has revamped profile grids, shifting from square to rectangular posts.

• Aesthetic Impact: This change disrupts the traditional cohesive look many creators have cultivated, especially those in visual-centric industries like beauty or interior design.

• Adjusting Strategies: Brock suggests utilizing the "Adjust Preview" feature by long-pressing a post to maintain grid aesthetics despite the new shape.

• Upcoming Feature: The ability to rearrange posts in the grid is on the horizon, giving users more control over their profile layout.

Notable Quote:
"While aesthetically pleasing grids are less critical for most accounts, they remain important for those in visually driven industries." (00:42:30)

7. Option to Share Posts Exclusively to Profile Grid

Timestamp: 45:20

A new option allows users to post content solely to their profile grid, bypassing their followers' feeds.

• Use Cases: Ideal for sticky content like introductions or special offers that users might want to highlight without cluttering their main feed.

• Strategic Use: Brock notes that while this feature offers greater control over feed aesthetics, it may limit engagement since the content doesn't appear in followers' feeds.

Notable Quote:
"Posting exclusively to your grid can help maintain a curated look, but it might reduce the immediate engagement potential of your posts." (00:47:55)

8. Enhanced Insights and Statistics

Timestamp: 50:10

Instagram has introduced new analytics tools that provide deeper insights into post performance.

• Key Metrics:

  • Exact Timing of Likes: Allows creators to see when their audience engages with specific moments in posts, enabling optimization of future content.
  • Most Followed Posts: Identifies which Reels are driving the most follower growth, aiding in replicating successful content strategies.
  • Post-by-Post Demographics: Offers detailed demographic information for each post, ensuring content aligns with the target audience.

• Strategic Benefits: These metrics empower creators to refine their content based on real-time feedback and audience behavior.

Notable Quote:
"Understanding when your audience is most engaged with your content can transform how you craft your future posts." (00:55:30)

9. Introduction of Reels Quizzes

Timestamp: 58:45

Instagram now supports Quizzes within Reels, enhancing interactivity.

• Functionality: Creators can add quiz questions in the caption, allowing viewers to select answers that reveal correct responses post-vote.

• Applications: Ideal for engaging audiences through educational content, gathering feedback, or running interactive giveaways.

Notable Quote:
"Reels Quizzes present a fun and interactive way to engage your audience while collecting valuable feedback." (01:02:15)

10. Conflicting Information About the Edits App

Timestamp: 1:05:50

There is conflicting information regarding Instagram's Edits App, a simplified editing tool similar to CapCut.

• Official Stance: Instagram's CEO, Adam Mosseri, claims that using the Edits App can lead to increased reach and views.

• Contrary Evidence: Studies from Insta ClubHub and Hootsuite indicate that the choice of editing app does not significantly impact engagement or views.

• Brock’s Take: While experimenting with the Edits App won't harm your account, he remains skeptical about its purported benefits and emphasizes choosing the editing tool that best suits your creative needs.

Notable Quote:
"Whether you edit in Instagram, CapCut, or the Edits App, studies show there's no significant difference in your engagement metrics." (01:10:20)

Conclusion

Brock Johnson provides a thorough analysis of Instagram's latest features, offering valuable insights for businesses and creators aiming to optimize their social media strategies. From leveraging new engagement tools like Reposts and Reels Quizzes to navigating changes in post dimensions and profile layouts, this episode equips listeners with the knowledge to adapt and thrive on Instagram's dynamic platform.

Final Notable Quote:
"Instagram is constantly evolving, and staying informed about these changes is crucial for maintaining and growing your presence on the platform." (01:16:40)

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Adopt the Reposts Feature: Use it strategically to amplify content from others, enhancing your network and engagement.
2. Limit Trial Reels: Stick to five per day to avoid posting restrictions and maintain a consistent growth strategy.
3. Utilize Enhanced Insights: Leverage new analytics to tailor your content effectively to your target audience.
4. Engage with Reels Quizzes: Incorporate interactive elements to boost engagement and gather audience feedback.
5. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of Instagram's ongoing changes to continually refine your social media approach.

Subscribe to "Build Your Tribe" for more expert insights and actionable strategies to grow your business with social media.