Instagram Rolls Out New Nickname Feature for Direct Messages: Here’s How to Use It
Instagram has just launched a highly anticipated feature that allows users to assign nicknames to their friends in Direct Messages (DMs). This new addition, released in November 2024, gives users a fun way to personalize their chats and add a touch of creativity to their conversations. If you’ve ever wished you could call your friends something more playful or meaningful within Instagram’s messaging system, this feature is for you.
What’s New in Instagram Direct Messages?
The latest update lets users create custom nicknames for their friends within individual or group chats. The best part? These nicknames are only visible in your DMs and won’t affect your friend’s actual Instagram username. Whether you want to call someone by a funny moniker or a special name only the two of you understand, this feature makes it possible.
This update brings Instagram’s messaging system closer to other social media platforms like Snapchat, which introduced a similar feature some time ago. It’s a small, fun change that makes your DMs more personalized and engaging.
How to Add a Nickname on Instagram: Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to start adding nicknames to your DMs? Here’s a simple guide on how to use this new feature:
- Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app and go to your home feed.
- Access Direct Messages: Tap on the DM icon located at the top-right corner of your screen.
- Select a Conversation: Choose the chat or group conversation where you want to add a nickname.
- Tap the Chat Name: At the top of the screen, tap the name of the chat to open the chat settings.
- Choose ‘Nicknames’: In the chat settings, select the “Nicknames” option.
- Assign a Nickname: Pick the friend you want to assign a nickname to, and enter the nickname of your choice. Get as creative as you like!
Customizing Nicknames on Instagram DMs
Instagram gives you full control over the nickname feature. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Nickname Flexibility: You can change the nickname as often as you want, so feel free to update it if the mood changes or if you come up with a better one.
- Who Can Edit Nicknames: By default, anyone you follow can change your nickname in a group chat. However, you can adjust this setting to allow only yourself to make changes to the nickname.
What If You Don’t Have the Feature Yet?
If you haven’t seen this feature on your Instagram yet, don’t worry. Instagram is gradually rolling it out across different regions, so it might take a little time before it reaches you. Make sure your app is up to date to get access to the newest features as soon as they become available.
Why Is the Nickname Feature a Game-Changer?
This nickname feature is more than just a fun addition to Instagram. It’s a way to deepen personal connections in digital communication. Whether you’re chatting with close friends, family, or in group conversations, being able to use personalized nicknames adds a layer of intimacy and creativity to your exchanges.
Additionally, it provides a simple yet effective way to stand out from the typical Instagram messaging experience, making chats feel more unique and fun.
