Instagram Moves Stories Highlights to a New Tab

Instagram is rolling out a major change to user profiles by relocating Stories Highlights from above the profile grid to their dedicated tab. This update aims to simplify profile layouts and enhance the visibility of content. The transition reflects Instagram’s continuous efforts to optimize user experience, particularly with Stories Highlights, which have become a cornerstone for content creators and businesses alike.

Instagram is moving Stories Highlights from their current spot above the profile grid into a separate tab. According to app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi, this new tab will be marked with a rounded heart icon. Inside the tab, users will see vertically aligned thumbnails for each Highlight, giving a cleaner and more focused experience.

Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s CEO, highlighted the reasoning behind this update:

“We’re trying to figure out a way to improve the profile and get more of the content above the fold, and simplify it […] You will still have control, you can still pin things, there’ll be a dedicated Highlights tab.”

This change will streamline profile appearances, making it easier for users to navigate while allowing Instagram to explore more effective ways to present archived content.

Why the Update Matters

1. Improved Navigation:
   The dedicated Stories Highlights tab declutters the profile grid, making it more organized and user-friendly.
2. Enhanced Engagement:
   While the new layout simplifies the profile, some experts believe it might reduce interaction with Highlights since they will no longer be as prominently displayed. 
3. Creative Presentation:
   The vertical alignment within the new tab allows content creators to structure their Stories thematically, catering to specific audiences. 

Similar Updates and What They Tell Us

This isn’t the first time Instagram has introduced updates to its Stories. Over the years, the platform has consistently experimented with how Stories are presented. For example, when Instagram introduced Highlights in 2017, they quickly became a hit among businesses looking to showcase evergreen content. 

However, recent updates like new stickers and the “Emoji Pong” game indicate Instagram is leaning toward a more interactive and creative approach to user engagement. These updates signal a broader trend of enhancing content discoverability while simplifying interface designs. 

Social media strategist Lindsey Gamble suggests that the move reflects a shift in how Instagram users value Stories. She notes, “The update may reflect lower engagement with existing Highlights placements. Instagram likely aims to test new layouts that prioritize fresher content.”

Meanwhile, some creators express concerns over reduced visibility. With Stories Highlights tucked away in a separate tab, they might not attract the same level of attention as before. However, others see this as an opportunity to curate more strategic and intentional content for their audiences.

Practical Tip for Instagram Users

If you’re a business or content creator, use this opportunity to:

• Refresh Your Stories Highlights: Update your Highlights to reflect recent and relevant content.
• Thematic Organization: Group Stories by themes to make them appealing in the new tab.
• Encourage Engagement: Use Instagram comments or new stickers to direct followers to explore your Highlights tab. 

Instagram’s move to relocate Stories Highlights to a dedicated tab marks another step in its ongoing efforts to streamline profiles and improve user experience. While the change may require users to adapt, it also presents opportunities for more creative content presentation. If you’re looking to grow your Instagram account with impactful content and authentic reviews, contact Reviews Me expert team today.