Instagram just rolled out a couple of new messaging features as it continues to focus on the growing popularity of DMs.
In fact, Instagram head Adam Mosseri recently pointed out—once again—that people now share way more photos and videos through direct messages than anywhere else on the app. He’s even called it a “paradigm shift” in how users interact, something he’s brought up in multiple interviews over the past year.
So, it’s no surprise that Instagram is expanding its DM tools to keep up with how people are using the platform.
One of the newest additions is automatic text transcription for voice messages in DMs, making it easier to catch up on messages even when you can’t listen to them out loud.
Now, when someone sends you a voice message in a DM, you’ll see a “View transcription” button right below the audio clip. Tap it, and you can read the message instead of listening to it — super handy when you can’t play audio.
According to Instagram:
“Now, when you get a voice message in DMs, you can read a transcription of it — whether you’re about to play it, listening to it, or checking it later. It’s a simple way to stay in the loop, even if you can’t listen out loud.”
This small update could make a big difference, making it easier to keep up with messages in any situation.
On top of that, Instagram is also increasing the time limit for voice messages in DMs — from 1 minute to 5 minutes — giving users more room to talk without cutting things short.
That means you’ve now got more room to say what you want in voice messages—whether it’s sharing a story, venting, or just chatting. And if the person on the other end prefers reading over listening, they can use the new transcription feature to read your message instead.
(Fun fact: Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” is 3 minutes and 33 seconds long—so yes, you could now Rickroll someone entirely in one DM.)
Instagram has been testing longer voice messages with some users for a while, but now it’s officially available to everyone.
And one more update: Instagram is rolling out a quick follow option in group chats, making it easier to follow all participants in a conversation with just a few taps.
Instagram has added a new “Follow All” button in group chats, letting you follow everyone in the conversation with a single tap.
Sure, you’re probably already following most people you chat with, but with group DMs becoming more common—whether for friends, projects, or shared interests—it’s a simple way to stay connected with everyone in the thread.
They’re small updates, but useful ones that could make your DM experience a little smoother.
FAQs
1. What is the new voice message transcription feature in Instagram DMs?
Instagram now lets you view automatic text transcriptions of voice messages in DMs. You’ll see a “View transcription” button below the audio clip, making it easy to read the message if you can’t listen to it.
2. How long can voice messages be in Instagram DMs now?
Instagram has increased the voice message limit from 1 minute to 5 minutes, giving users more time to talk without needing to rush or split up messages.
3. What is the “Follow All” feature in Instagram group chats?
The new “Follow All” button in group chats lets you quickly follow every participant in a conversation with one tap, making it easier to stay connected with everyone in the thread.
4. Why is Instagram focusing more on DMs?
Instagram head Adam Mosseri says users now share more content via DMs than anywhere else on the app, marking a major shift in how people use the platform. That’s why new messaging features are being added.
