Instagram is testing a new “Community Chat” feature for users. By using this, you can create group chats on specific topics. Each chat will have up to 250 members. It is similar to Discord’s community-based chats.
It will help users connect over shared interests. Instagram has not yet confirmed its official release date. However, it is part of Meta’s plan to take engagement to the next level.
What is Instagram’s Community Chat Feature?
Instagram’s Community Chat feature will let users create topic-based group chats. Such chats will help you interact more easily on shared interests. It is similar to Meta’s existing tools like WhatsApp Communities.
Developer Alessandro Paluzzi discovered it and shared screenshots online. His findings show how it may work once released. A spokesperson from Instagram confirmed that it is getting tested. Currently, it is not available to the public or beta testers.
Meta has been working on community-based features for a long time now. In 2022, it launched Communities on WhatsApp to improve group interactions. Later that year, Facebook and Messenger introduced Community Chats. Instagram is now adding a similar enhancement to keep users engaged on its platform.
How Will Instagram’s Community Chat Work?
Instagram’s Community Chat feature will offer better group communication. It will allow you, as well as admins, to have more control over discussions. Admins can approve or remove members from the chat. They are authorised to delete messages that violate rules.
Instagram will monitor these chats to ensure safety. The platform will check if chats follow its Community Standards. This will help reduce harmful content and spam. Unlike Instagram’s broadcast channels, which allow only one-way messages, Community Chats will let all members participate actively.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg believes it will help you find like-minded users. It will make it easier to create discussion-based groups on Instagram. Instead of using third-party apps like Discord, users can now stay on Instagram itself.
Why is Instagram adding it?
Instagram wants to keep its users engaged on its platform. Many of us switch to Discord for group discussions. With this feature, IG is trying to stop them.
The 250-member limit suggests Instagram wants smaller, more interactive groups. This is different from Discord, which allows large-scale communities. Instagram is focusing on quality discussions instead of large groups.
Meta has been adding community-driven features across all its apps. WhatsApp Communities, Facebook Groups, and Messenger Chats are some examples. This shows Meta’s long-term focus on group engagement. Instagram’s Community Chat is another step in that direction.
The Final Words
Instagram’s Community Chat feature will improve group discussions on the app. Users can create topic-based chats and interact with like-minded people.
Admins will have moderation tools to keep chats safe and organized. Unlike broadcast channels, this feature will allow two-way communication.
Instagram has not yet confirmed its release date. If launched, it will help Instagram compete with platforms like Discord.
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