Instagram Rolls Out Location-Sharing Feature Similar to Snap Map – Here’s How to Opt-In or Out

Instagram unveils a new location-sharing feature called Instagram Map this week, enabling U.S. users to share their latest active location and discover location-based content. Unlike Snap Map, which offers real-time or app-opening updates for location sharing, Instagram Map only refreshes the user’s location upon opening the app or when it runs in the background.

The social media giant, Meta, confirmed that location sharing is disabled by default on Instagram Map to address safety concerns. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, assured users that the feature requires explicit opt-in and clarified that some people are uncertain about its operation.

Users might find their location information populating the map due to the automatic pull of location tags from recently posted Stories or Reels with geotags. Although this isn’t a novel development, as Instagram previously displayed location tags in its map view, the new Instagram Map makes accessing such information more convenient. Users may want to reconsider posting Stories and Reels with geotags, particularly if they are still at the location.

To manage your location settings on Instagram Map, navigate to the DMs page (direct messages) and tap the “Map” option at the top. After initial access, you’ll likely encounter a pop-up message introducing the new Map feature and explaining that no one can view your location until you choose to share it with them. You can adjust your settings as needed.

Upon opening Instagram Map for the first time, you will be directed to a screen displaying “Who can see your location.” From there, you can select to share your location with Friends (followers you follow back), Close Friends list, specific users, or no one.

To modify preferences, click on your profile, tap the settings option in the top-right corner, and then select “Story, live and location.” In this menu, choose the “Location sharing” button to change your settings. Remember that if you turn off location sharing, others can still share their locations with you, allowing you to view them on the Map.

Upon opening the app, you will see the locations of friends who have shared their locations with you. Additionally, you will encounter location-based Stories and Reels from individuals you follow. For instance, if a friend attends a nearby event and posts a story there, it will appear on the map. Similarly, if a creator shares a reel about a new restaurant in your city, you can discover it through Instagram Map.

Even with location services turned off, you will still see location-based content on the Map. Moreover, you can leave short, ephemeral messages or “Notes” on the map for others to see. These notes currently appear at the top of your direct messaging feed, and with the launch of Instagram Map, they will now be visible on the map if shared with a location.