Instagram rolling out new sharing and connecting features

And get ready for the new Explore page layout that’s set to come in the next few weeks making it even more effective for users. The feature is embedded in the Direct Messaging section of the app.

So, how can Instagram users start using this new feature?

Instagram now gets video chat, just like the one in Messenger. That said, you can also minimize the video call screen and do other things on Instagram like scrolling through your feed, or dropping some comments on a post.

A Slow-Mo mode might also be on the cards with Instagram Stories. This allows users to share a song or a playlist they’re listening to on Spotify as well as an adventure packed footage shot on a GoPro direct on to their Instagram Story or Direct.

Instagram Stories integration in Spotify should be coming to iOS and Android from today, putting yet another gap between Instagram, and the first mover, Snapchat.

Users can share clips from Spotify songs in their Stories thanks to an integration with the streaming service.

To share content from an app to Instagram, all you have to do is tap on the share button in the app and select Instagram.

Facebook’s AR camera platform will also be landing on Instagram. Meaning Instagrammers will be able to apply face filters for selfies and “world effects” for other snapshots.

See an effect you like on one of the accounts you follow? Facebook says this is just a taste of their upcoming collaborations with third-party apps and influencers, including Kylie Jenner, NBA, Jiffpom, Liza Koshy, Baby Ariel, and Ariana Grande. The page will have a better arrangement as it will be composed of categories, hashtags or topics instead of a random selection of posts that the Explore page has now.

A redesigned Explored tab makes discovery of ideas, people and experiences easier.

The Explore page is also getting a refresh.

Instagram users will now be able to hide abusive comments.

In fact, Facebook has announced that the group video chat feature will also be rolled out to WhatsApp, enabling up to four users to join a single call. “The bullying filter is on for our global community and can be disabled in the Comment Controls center in the app”, Kevin Systrom, Co-founder and CEO, Instagram said. Live video on Instagram is already immensely popular, but now it will be possible to have a similar experience among a smaller group of friends.