Instagram Unveils Blend: A Collaborative Reels Experience in DMs
Instagram has launched an innovative feature named Blend, aimed at forming a shared, private collection of recommended Reels within direct messaging. Although the idea may initially appear somewhat unusual, it provides a distinctive method for users to delve into and contrast their content tastes with friends or partners — essentially allowing you to glimpse into another person’s algorithm.
Consider this as Instagram’s counterpart to Spotify’s Blend playlists, which combine musical preferences into a single shared playlist. However, instead of music, this version focuses on Reels — ideal for quietly scrolling alongside one another or igniting discussions about mutual interests. It also injects a social element into the frequently solitary Reels experience, potentially boosting engagement and time spent on the platform — a benefit for Instagram.
Blend has been under development since at least March 2024, when it was initially trialed with select users. It is now accessible in both one-on-one and group chats.
“We aspire for Instagram to be a venue where individuals engage over creativity, and this serves as yet another means to accomplish that,” stated Instagram head Adam Mosseri in a recent Reel. “It’s an enjoyable way to not only showcase your interests but to gain insights into your friends’ interests… and then you can initiate conversations about the content you uncover.”
How to Utilize Instagram Blend
Total Time: 1 Minute
What You’ll Require: The Instagram app
Step 1: Launch a DM and Select Blend
Within a direct message thread, find the Blend icon located in the top right corner of your screen.
Step 2: Select “Invite”
After tapping the icon, you will be prompted to invite the other individual (or individuals) in the chat. Once they accept, you will gain access to a curated feed of Reels customized to your combined interests. You can respond to Reels via the reply bar, sending your input directly into the chat to maintain the conversation.
Step 3: Begin Scrolling
Once at least one participant accepts the invitation, your Blend feed will activate. The feed refreshes daily, presenting a new selection of Reels to discover together each day.
Whether you wish to connect over shared content or simply seek a fresh way to explore Reels, Instagram Blend introduces a collaborative dimension to your scrolling experience.