NEW Instagram Algorithm | 10 Changes Direct From Instagram's CEO

Summary

In this video, the latest Instagram algorithm updates for 2026 are revealed, focusing on how creators can thrive on the platform. Key changes include the prioritization of authenticity over AI-generated content, the ability to add clickable links to Reels (via the Edits app), and the introduction of automatic translations and dubbing in multiple languages. New features such as story sharing for growth, scheduling trial Reels, and early access Reels are highlighted, along with changes to view counting and hashtag limitations. These updates signal a shift toward more global, authentic, and engaging content creation strategies.

Takeaways

• 😀 AI content is here to stay, and soon it will be indistinguishable from human-created content. Authenticity will become more important as people seek trustworthy creators in an AI-driven world.
• 😀 To be more authentic on Instagram, reduce the time between idea and execution. Share raw, unfiltered content with no edits or scripting to build trust with your audience.
• 😀 Instagram now allows clickable links in Reels, but you can only link to Instagram profiles or other Reels, and you must use the 'Edits' app to do so.
• 😀 Instagram has introduced five new languages for automatic translation and dubbing of Reels, including languages popular in India, which is the largest user base for Instagram.
• 😀 Instagram will no longer suppress views for content edited using third-party apps like CapCut, iMovie, or InShot, but avoid including watermarks or logos in your videos.
• 😀 Instagram is working on allowing users to schedule trial Reels, which can reach non-followers and help boost your audience with minimal effort.
• 😀 The 'early access Reels' feature allows creators to showcase their Reels first to their followers before they’re available to the general public, potentially increasing engagement and follower growth.
• 😀 IGTV is making a comeback, this time on Amazon Fire TV and other streaming platforms, with an emphasis on horizontal and long-form video content.
• 😀 Instagram now allows you to share public stories from others to your own feed, making it possible to grow your audience by reposting engaging, shareable content.
• 😀 Instagram has reduced the number of hashtags allowed in posts from 30 to 5, signaling the gradual decline of hashtag relevance. It's no longer a key strategy for growth on the platform.

Q & A

What is the biggest takeaway from Adam Mosseri’s post on Instagram’s future?

Adam Mosseri’s post emphasizes that AI-generated content will become increasingly indistinguishable from human-created content. However, authenticity will remain a premium, with users craving genuine creators who build trust.

What is the new feature for adding clickable links in Instagram Reels?

Instagram now allows clickable links in Reels, but only through the Edits app. You can link to Instagram profiles or other Reels, but not to external sites like websites or blogs.

How can the new link feature in Instagram Reels be used creatively?

Creators can use the link feature to embed multiple Reels within a single Reel, create a series, or direct viewers to related content, similar to how YouTube uses clickable video recommendations at the end.

What new language features has Instagram introduced for Reels?

Instagram now offers automatic translation and dubbing for Reels in nine languages, including new additions aimed at Indian users. This includes AI-powered lip-syncing to make the dubbed voices match the original speaker's lip movements.

Does Instagram penalize users for editing with third-party apps?

No, Instagram no longer penalizes users for using third-party editing apps like CapCut or iMovie. However, Instagram has warned against watermarks, as these can lead to a reduction in reach.

What is the new feature regarding Instagram Stories?

Instagram now allows users to reshare anyone else's public story to their own. This opens up the possibility for growth, as resharing can increase exposure to new audiences and potentially lead to new followers.

How have the views on Instagram been redefined with the latest update?

Instagram now only counts a view if someone actually taps on the post. Previously, views were counted even if users just scrolled past the post or viewed it on the Explore page, leading to inflated numbers.

What impact has the new hashtag limit (5 hashtags) had on Instagram growth?

Instagram has reduced the maximum number of hashtags from 30 to 5, signaling a shift away from hashtags as a primary growth tool. Hashtags are becoming less effective, and creators are encouraged to focus on content quality rather than relying on hashtags.

What is the 'Your Algorithm' feature on Instagram, and how does it work?

'Your Algorithm' is a feature that lets users customize their Instagram experience. You can add or remove topics you want to see more or less of. While it doesn’t affect post visibility, it allows users to curate their feed and could influence what content they engage with.

How has Instagram’s strategy changed in terms of competing with YouTube?

Instagram is now partnering with Amazon Fire TV to bring Reels to larger screens, aiming to compete with YouTube in the long-form video space. They are also expected to prioritize horizontal Reels, signaling a shift in how content may be consumed on larger screens.