Instagram is in the process of developing a new feature called Friend Map, which will allow users to view their friends’ last active locations on a map. This feature, reminiscent of Snap Map, is expected to include a global map interface that displays users based on the location data they choose to share. Additionally, users will have the option to place themselves on the map through posts that contain location information.
Mobile developer Alessandro Paluzzi shared insights about this feature on February 24 on X (formerly Twitter). He posted multiple screenshots labeling it as Friend Map, stating, “Instagram keeps working on ‘Friend map’: your friends, on a map.” If confirmed, this would introduce a novel dimension to the social media platform and may serve as a tool for discovering nearby users and accounts.
The leaked images suggest that the Friend Map feature will unveil a world map where a user’s friends can be viewed if they have made their location data visible. The screenshots also hint at a functionality where users can leave notes on the map, akin to the existing Notes feature seen in the Direct Message section. According to the shared information, users might have up to three avenues for updating their status: Stories, Notes, and the new Notes on Map feature. “Find a new excuse to share what’s happening wherever you are,” reads a message from the screenshot.
Other anticipated features of Friend Map could include options for users to select which friends can access their shared location, assurances of end-to-end encryption for location data, and a simplified process for adding posts to the map simply by including location info. One of the screenshots revealed Instagram’s granular controls, allowing users to dictate visibility of their last active location through options like Ghost Mode (where no one can see it), Followers you follow back, and Close Friends. Currently, no additional details regarding the feature are available.
Paluzzi also resurfaced an earlier post from October 2023, which showcased a new Stories icon labeled Nearby, implying a potential connection to the Friend Map feature. Although specifics are limited, it’s possible that posts from nearby users relevant to the Friend Map can be directly accessed through this feature.
