Instagram plans DM update: Read messages secretly, Mark Zuckerberg confirms

Instagram is preparing for an update that will allow users to read their direct messages (DMs) without notifying the sender. This new feature, announced for Instagram, is currently in the testing phase and will soon be integrated into the photo and video-sharing platform, according to Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta.

Instagram has been focused on enhancing the user experience, particularly by improving its DM features. While Instagram's messaging experience is quite robust, it lacks certain features found in dedicated messaging apps like WhatsApp. One such feature is the ability to turn off read receipts, similar to WhatsApp's blue tick feature.

Zuckerberg's DM update

Mark Zuckerberg recently shared in a post on his channel, "If you're someone who tends to leave people on 'read,' your time has come. We're experimenting with the ability to disable read receipts on Instagram DMs."

Adam Mosseri, the Chief of Instagram, even shared a screenshot of the upcoming feature, indicating that once you disable "read receipts," Instagram won't notify the other person that you've read or seen their message.

This new feature will be particularly useful for users who occasionally forget to respond to messages in Instagram DMs. Notably, if you forget to disable read receipts and use the Vanish mode (where you stretch the chat thread and leave it), the other party will still be able to see if you've viewed their messages on the platform.

Feature release timeline

While there isn't a formal announcement regarding the feature's launch date, Mark Zuckerberg mentioned that it will be available soon and is currently undergoing testing. It's expected to be introduced to the platform within the next couple of months, allowing users to read DMs without alerting the sender.

Additionally, Instagram is reportedly adding the option to include song lyrics in Instagram Reels, similar to how users can do so in stories. This means that when editing a Reel, users can tap on the music icon and swipe left to add song lyrics to their content.