Instagram is making a significant update to its profile grids.
Starting this weekend, posts will be displayed as rectangles instead of iconic squares, according to Instagram chief Adam Mosseri in a recent Instagram Story.
Mosseri acknowledged users’ emotional connection to square posts, noting that they are “the heritage of Instagram.” However, he explained that vertical content has become the norm for both photos and videos on the platform. He said that cropping such posts into squares often results in a less-than-ideal display, calling it “a bummer to overly crop them.”
While Mosseri admitted the shift might be “a bit of a pain” for some users, he described it as a necessary adjustment. He believes this change will ultimately enhance the experience by allowing users’ photos and videos to appear more naturally and as intended, without aggressive cropping. “Over time, I think people will appreciate that more of their content is visible on their profiles,” he added.
This change builds on earlier tests Instagram conducted in August, where the idea was first trialed on a limited scale. Additionally, Instagram announced a new feature for Reels, introducing a dedicated spot in the feed to showcase videos liked by friends.
These updates reflect Instagram’s ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving content trends and improve the user experience.
