Instagram’s new Instants tool is a brazen copycat of Snapchat and BeReal, but at least it keeps things real

Instagram has launched Instants, a disappearing-photo feature for Close Friends on iOS, Android, and in DMs.

Users can send non-editable photos that vanish after viewing or within 24 hours, with reactions, replies, and an undo option.

Instagram also blocks screenshots, keeps sent photos in a private archive, and can turn them into a Stories recap.

The launch underscores Instagram’s push toward more authentic, private sharing while borrowing from Snapchat- and BeReal-style formats.