Following Wednesday’s launch of Instagram’s new “Instagram Map” feature, which allows U.S. users to share their recent active location and discover location-based content, Instagram head Adam Mosseri is clarifying that users’ locations are only visible if they choose to share them. Although Meta has stated that location sharing is off by default, numerous social media posts have incorrectly claimed that it’s automatically enabled.
“We’re double-checking everything, but it seems like people are confused, assuming that if they see themselves on the map, others can too,” Mosseri explained in a Threads post. “We’re ensuring nobody shares location without expressly deciding to, which involves double consent (we ask for confirmation after you opt to share).”
Mosseri added that some users are “confused” about the feature’s functionality. When users access the feature, they see a map displaying some users’ location information because the feature automatically pulls location tags from recent Stories or Reels.
This isn’t new, as Instagram already allowed users to see location tags in its map view, but the new Map feature makes accessing this information easier. The feature might prompt users to reconsider including location tags in their Stories or Reels, especially if they’re still at the location.
If location on Instagram Map is turned on, updates occur only when the app is opened or running in the background, rather than continuous real-time updates like Snap Map, which provides both options for users.
For those wanting to turn off Instagram Map location sharing, here are the steps.
How to access Instagram Map
To access, go to your DMs page (direct messages) and tap the “Map” option at the top. A pop-up will inform you that no one can see your location until you share it, and you can change this setting anytime.
How to set your location-sharing preferences
Upon opening Map, choose who can see your location: Friends, Close Friends list, select users, or no one. To modify preferences, go to your profile, tap settings in the top-right, select “Story, live and location,” then choose “Location sharing” to adjust settings.
If you keep location sharing off, others can still show you their location, allowing you to see them on the Map.
How to use Instagram Map
Opening the app shows locations of friends who’ve shared theirs with you, and location-based Stories and Reels from people you follow. For example, a friend’s music festival story or a creator’s reel about a restaurant in your city will appear on the map. You’ll still see location-based content even with your location off.
You can also leave “Notes” on the map for others, which appear as short messages at the top of your direct messages and can now be shared with a location on the map.
This story was updated with new information.