This week, Instagram introduced a new Snap Map-like feature called Instagram Map that lets U.S. users share their most recent active location with others and discover location-based content. If you choose to turn on your location for Instagram Map, it only updates when you open the app or have it running in the background. Unlike Snap Map, which allows real-time updates, Instagram’s version does not provide continuous location tracking.
Meta has confirmed that location sharing is off by default on Instagram Map. Following concerns about safety, Instagram head Adam Mosseri reassured users that the feature is opt-in and clarified how it works. Some users have reported confusion after seeing the map populated with location data from others. This happens because the feature automatically pulls location tags from recently posted Stories or Reels that include a tagged location.
While location tags were already visible in Instagram’s map view before, the new feature makes this information much more accessible. This might make users reconsider whether they want to tag their Stories or Reels with locations, especially if they are still at the tagged place.
For those who want to ensure their location remains private, here’s how to manage the settings.
To access Instagram Map, go to your direct messages page and tap the new “Map” option at the top. First-time users will see a pop-up explaining that no one can see their location until they choose to share it and that settings can be adjusted anytime.
When you open the Map for the first time, you’ll see a page titled “Who can see your location.” Here, you can select who has access—whether it’s your friends (followers you follow back), your Close Friends list, specific users, or no one.
To change your preferences later, go to your profile, tap the settings option in the top-right corner, select “Story, live and location,” and then tap “Location sharing.” Even if you turn off location sharing, others can still share their location with you, meaning you’ll still see them on the Map.
Once you open the app, you’ll see the locations of friends who have shared theirs, along with location-based Stories and Reels from people you follow. For example, if a friend posts a Story from a nearby concert or a creator shares a Reel about a local restaurant, you’ll find it on the Map.
You can also leave short, temporary messages called “Notes” on the Map for others to see. These Notes, which currently appear at the top of your direct messages, will now be visible on the Map if shared with a location.