Instagram, part of Meta Platforms, is reportedly preparing to unveil a new feature that will allow users to gain early access to upcoming functionalities. Currently, the only way for users to explore beta features on the platform is by enrolling in the [Android] Beta program, which is available during the testing phase.
A recent screenshot shared on Threads by developer Alessandro Paluzzi indicates that users may soon find an option for early access in the Settings and activity section. This new feature would appear as the last selection within the tab.
This anticipated addition has the potential to provide users with early interaction with experimental features, akin to the approaches adopted by Google Search Labs and YouTube Experiments.
AI-Generated Themes on Instagram
In addition, Paluzzi disclosed that Instagram is looking to enhance its use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the app. Users might soon be able to create personalized chat themes through AI-assisted options.
Currently, Instagram offers users the ability to modify chat themes with various gradient and color selections, alongside some predefined themes. The screenshot shared by Paluzzi reveals a new feature labeled Create with AI, which would join existing themes that include Pickleball, Snack Party, and Minecraft.
Meanwhile, a comparable feature is being developed for WhatsApp, allowing users to select from five preset themes: blue, green (the default), grey, red, and purple. This feature is expected to utilize a new theme picker that alters both color and wallpaper in the chat background.
Upcoming Instagram Cross-Posting Feature
Moreover, reports suggest that Instagram is also developing a cross-posting feature that would enable users to share content directly from Instagram to Threads, Meta’s microblogging service that competes with X (formerly known as Twitter).
This functionality is anticipated to be opt-in, rather than activated by default, allowing users to choose whether they wish to utilize it. It is expected to mirror the existing cross-posting capabilities that connect Instagram with Facebook.
