Instagram’s 2025 Update: Reposts, Map, and Friends Tab

Key Summary

Instagram’s latest features are all about deepening social connections. This update introduces reposts for feed posts and Reels, a new Instagram Map for location sharing, and a revamped Friends tab in Reels. All features are opt-in, privacy-forward, and designed to make Instagram feel more personal and interactive in 2025.

Reposts: Your Favorite Posts, Now Easier to Share

Instagram now offers a native repost feature for public feed posts and Reels. Each repost includes credit to the original creator and appears in a dedicated Reposts tab on your profile. Reposts may also be recommended to your followers, helping creators expand their reach and visibility.

This change makes sharing content easier and more discoverable, similar to reposting on TikTok or retweeting on Twitter. Plus, Instagram allows users to add notes when reposting, adding a layer of personalization.

Instagram Map: A New Way to See Where the Action Is

The new Instagram Map is a location-sharing feature integrated within DMs. When enabled, it updates your location only while the app is open and allows you to control which friends can see it. Users can explore a map filled with Reels, Stories, and posts tagged by nearby users, making discovery hyper-local and social.

You can even leave Notes on the map - quick messages friends can view. Teen accounts have built-in parental supervision, and location sharing is completely optional with robust controls.

Friends Tab in Reels: See What Your Circle Loves

The Friends tab in Reels has been expanded globally. This tab now highlights the Reels your friends like, comment on, repost, or share. It’s a new way to engage with what your circle is watching and enjoying.

You’re in control - users can choose to hide their interactions or mute updates from others. This shift aims to make Instagram feel more connected, rather than just a passive entertainment feed.

Why This Matters for Users and Creators

For users, these tools make Instagram feel more like a social network again - letting you engage with friends, share content more easily, and see what people close to you are up to.

For creators, reposts provide more chances to get discovered beyond your own follower list.

For everyone, Instagram’s emphasis on privacy means you can opt in (or out) of each feature on your own terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn off Instagram Map?

To turn off the new Instagram Map feature, go to your profile, click the three bars in the top right corner to go to settings and activity, and scroll down to 'story, live and location'. Here you'll be able to turn off location sharing for the Instagram Map, and/or choose who you'd like to see your location.

How do I stop people from seeing my Instagram likes?

You can stop other users from seeing your likes and comments in the new Reels tab update by navigating to your profile, clicking the three bars in the top right corner to go to settings and activity, and scrolling down to 'activity in Friends tab'. Here you will be able to select who can see your activity, 'nobody' or 'followers you follow back'.

How do I repost content?

To repost content on Instagram, just tap the repost icon on any public post or Reel. You can add a short note, and your repost will show in a new Reposts tab on your profile. It might also appear in your followers’ feeds.

Can I use Instagram Map without sharing my location?

Yes, you can use the Instagram Map without sharing your location. Location sharing is optional. You can still explore posts and Reels tagged to locations on the map without broadcasting your own location.

What privacy options are available in the Friends tab?

You can choose whether or not your likes, reposts, and comments are visible to your friends. You can also mute friends whose activity you don’t want to see.