Instagram just dropped its most talked-about feature of 2025 - the Instagram Map. Officially launched on August 6, 2025, this new tool lets users share their most recent active location with others and discover location-based content, directly competing with Snapchat's popular Snap Map feature.
Instagram's new Map feature in action
The feature has already created quite a buzz, with some users excited about the new social possibilities while others raising privacy concerns. Here's everything you need to know about Instagram's latest addition.
How Instagram Map Actually Works
Users can access their maps by going to their DMs. When users click on the map, it shows the geolocation of users who have opted into sharing their location, based on the last time they opened Instagram or shared an Instagram story. Think of it as Instagram's answer to Snapchat's location sharing, but with Instagram's own twist.
The Snap Map-like tool lets you share your "last active location" with select followers, discover nearby posts, and even leave ephemeral notes on the map. It's designed for planning meetups, finding friends nearby, or simply discovering what's happening around you.
Privacy Controls That Matter
Before you panic about privacy, here's the good news: Instagram head Adam Mosseri reassured users that the feature is opt-in. This means it won't automatically start sharing your location without your permission.
When you first access the map feature, Instagram prompts you to choose your privacy settings. You can share your location with all followers, close friends only, or keep it completely private. The choice is entirely yours.
For privacy-conscious users, tweaking your settings is essential. You can audit your map under Profile > Menu > Your Activity > Locations to review and manage your location history.
What Makes This Different from Snapchat
While Instagram Map clearly takes inspiration from Snapchat's Map, it comes with Instagram's massive user base and integration with the platform's existing features. You can discover location-based posts, stories, and reels all in one place.
The feature also integrates seamlessly with Instagram's existing ecosystem. You can share locations through stories, discover nearby content creators, and even find local businesses and events happening around you.
How to Turn It On or Off
Getting started is simple. Open Instagram, go to your DMs, and look for the map icon. If it's your first time, Instagram will walk you through the setup process and privacy options.
To disable location sharing completely, go to your profile settings, find the privacy section, and toggle off location sharing for the map feature. You can also customize who sees your location - whether it's everyone, close friends, or nobody at all.
Safety Concerns and Solutions
The Instagram Map introduces a new way to interact and discover content based on location, but it also renews the long-standing debate about how much personal information users should share online. Some users worry about safety implications, especially for younger users.
Instagram addresses these concerns with multiple privacy controls and emphasizes that the feature is completely optional. Parents should definitely discuss this feature with their teens and help them understand the privacy settings.
Should You Use Instagram Map?
The Instagram Map feature can be genuinely useful for connecting with friends, discovering local content, and planning social activities. However, it's not for everyone, and that's perfectly fine.
If you're comfortable sharing your general location with selected friends and want to discover nearby content, it could enhance your Instagram experience. If privacy is your priority, you can easily skip this feature without missing out on Instagram's core functionality.
The key is understanding your options and making informed decisions about what personal information you're comfortable sharing. Instagram Map gives you those choices - use them wisely.