No more mystery, Instagram is preparing to copy Snapchat by launching its own friends card . This feature, currently in development, will allow users to view their friends' locations on an interactive map, paving the way for new interactions and more precise location sharing.
Operation and confidentiality
According to screenshots shared by developer and feature hunter Alessandro Paluzzi, Instagram's “Friends Map” draws heavily from Snap Map. You will be able :
- Choose friends who can see your location in real time.
- Enable “ghost mode” to temporarily hide your location.
- Benefit from end-to-end encryption to keep your location data secure.
- Leave notes on the map to inform your friends of your activities or your presence in a specific location.
#Instagram keeps working on "Friend map": your friends, on a map 👀
— Alessandro Paluzzi (@alex193a) February 24, 2024
ℹ️ Your location is end-to-end encrypted
Let's see how it works 👇 https://t.co/iBeR0nec61 pic.twitter.com/5dxTZN0OUB
A direct competitor to Snap Map?
The striking resemblance to Snap Map is undeniable. However, Instagram stands out for its much larger audience and its native integration into the application.
This “friends card” could thus become an essential communication tool for Instagram users, in particular for organizing spontaneous meetings or sharing moments live.
Towards increased surveillance?
If the practical aspect of the “friends card” is undeniable, this functionality also raises questions of confidentiality.
The ability to track friends' locations in real time can be intrusive, and it is important to consider the ethical and social implications of such increased surveillance.
Potential impact on social interactions
The arrival of Instagram's “friends card” could have a profound impact on the way we interact with each other.
By facilitating communication and coordination between friends, it could strengthen social bonds and encourage chance encounters. However, it is important to remain vigilant against the potential risks of cyberbullying or unwanted tracking.
In conclusion
Instagram's “friends card” is a promising feature that promises to be a real asset for communication and sharing between friends.
However, it is important to approach its use with caution and take ownership of privacy settings to ensure a positive, privacy-respecting experience.
# Key points to remember
- Instagram is developing a “friends map” similar to Snap Map.
- This feature will allow you to view the location of friends in real time.
- Data privacy and security are guaranteed by end-to-end encryption.
- The “friends card” could have a major impact on social interactions.
- Careful and responsible use is necessary to avoid potential abuses.
See also our other articles on Instagram:
