If you’re organizing a get-together with friends or returning home, sending your location via direct messages can be a very useful and secure option for individuals of any age. This feature has been around for a while on services like [Google Maps](https://mashable.com/article/how-to-share-location-on-google-maps), [Snapchat](https://mashable.com/article/snapchat-location-sharing-family-center), and [most messaging apps](https://mashable.com/article/facebook-messenger-live-loca), and Instagram has finally entered the scene with its location sharing capability.
Starting November 25, Instagram [has enabled users to share their live location](https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/new-instagram-dm-features-update) with friends for a duration of up to one hour. Additionally, you can drop a pin to assist in organizing meeting spots and check how far away everyone is from the venue—eliminating those “I’m almost there” claims.
### How Instagram’s Location Sharing Functions
You have the option to share your live location or a pin in both individual and group chats. It’s important to note that the location you share cannot be forwarded to different chats, ensuring your privacy is maintained. Nevertheless, it’s always prudent to avoid sharing your location with strangers, no matter your age.
For younger users, Instagram has put in place further safety protocols. Users younger than 13 are prohibited from creating an account, and [Teen Accounts](https://mashable.com/article/instagram-meta-mandates-teen-accounts-16-younger) (ages 13 to 17) come equipped with stringent default privacy settings. Teens can only receive messages from accounts they follow or have previously communicated with, and those under 16 must obtain parental consent to alter these settings. Furthermore, [Meta](https://www.meta.com/en-gb/help/policies/safety/Meta-Teen-Privacy-Safety-Settings/?srsltid=AfmBOop6vaD800ZBhYmpGS-_KunmSmvIMbjzJ6yw1ixR11fQzxHDX7Hf) indicates that location sharing is disabled by default for minors. When location sharing is enabled, both adults and minors will see a consistent reminder indicating that their location is being shared.
At present, this capability is accessible on the Instagram app for both iOS and Android in select regions and is turned off by default. If you are prepared to try it out, follow these steps to activate it.
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### How to Share Your Live Location on Instagram
**Total Time:** 2 minutes
**What You Need:**
– An iPhone or Android smartphone
– The Instagram app
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Launch Instagram.**
2. **Access your Messages.**
– Tap the paper airplane icon in the upper-right corner.
3. **Select a chat.**
– This can either be an individual or group conversation.
4. **Tap the “+” icon** at the bottom of the screen.
5. **Choose “Location.”**
6. **Tap “Share your location”** to send it in the conversation.
Remember that you can cease sharing your location at any point. However, once it is switched on, your location will remain shared for one hour, even if you’ve reached your destination.
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### Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Share My Location on Instagram?
If you’re unable to see the option to share your live location, it may not yet be available in your country. Alternatively, you may need to adjust your device’s location-sharing settings.
For iPhone users:
1. Open **Settings**.
2. Select **Privacy and Security**.
3. Scroll down to **Instagram** and toggle location sharing on.
4. Decide when Instagram can access your location: **Never**, **Always**, or **While using the app** — based on your preference.
By following these steps, you’ll be set to utilize Instagram’s location-sharing feature to stay connected and secure while planning activities with friends.