Instagram Launches 'Instants' App to Compete with Snapchat's Disappearing Photos

Instagram has officially introduced 'Instants,' a new feature and standalone application designed for spontaneous, disappearing photo sharing, directly competing with Snapchat. Announced on May 14, 2026, Instants allows users to send photos that vanish after viewing, though they are archived privately for up to one year for potential recap stories. The feature is accessible within the main Instagram app via the DM inbox and through a dedicated iOS and Android app currently being tested in select countries. To preserve spontaneity, Instants limits editing capabilities, permitting only captions while restricting filters, camera roll uploads, and extensive editing tools. Users can share images with close friends or mutual followers and utilize an undo button shortly after sending. Additionally, Instagram has implemented robust privacy and safety measures, particularly for teen accounts. These include automatic screen time limits, restrictions on screenshots and screen recordings, and limited access between 10 PM and 7 AM. Parents supervising teen accounts receive notifications if the standalone app is downloaded. This launch marks another strategic move by Instagram to capture the ephemeral messaging market, following previous attempts like Bolt and Candid Stories.