Instagram’s Updated Design Emphasizes Reels and DMs: What Has Changed in Your Navigation Bar

Instagram is putting an emphasis on short-form video content via Reels, and a redesign is anticipated shortly.

In an announcement on Instagram Reels, head Adam Mosseri stated that the app has hit three billion users, prompting an analysis of the factors behind that growth. “If you look back over the last few years, nearly all of that growth has stemmed from DMs, Reels, and recommendations,” Mosseri mentioned in the announcement. Consequently, they are revamping the app.

At present, swiping right on Instagram directs you to your DMs; swiping left encourages you to share a story; and the bottom navigation menu features the home page, search/explore page, a button for creating new posts, the Reels section, and your profile. This will be changing soon.

In the upcoming months, Instagram plans to refresh the bottom navigation to consist of the home page, Reels, DMs, search/explore, and your profile. The specific posting button will be eliminated, but posting will still be feasible by selecting the option at the top left.

Instagram is also trialing a new feature that enables users to customize their algorithm by adding and removing topics according to their preferences, starting with reels. Users can access a settings page to review what the algorithm perceives their interests to be and modify it to reflect their genuine interests.

“Truly excited for everything that’s ahead. Thank you for joining us on this journey and for making Instagram so unique. 🙏🏼,” Mosseri stated.