Instagram has just launched a major update that’s shifting the way we view profiles. The platform is moving from its traditional square grid format to a vertical-aligned layout. This change aims to create a more engaging experience for users, aligning with how content is now shared and consumed. In this blog, we’ll cover the key changes, new features Instagram is rolling out, and how this impacts you.

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Key Changes:

• Vertical Content: Posts now appear in a portrait format with a new size of 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 ratio).

• Customisable Previews: Adjust how your posts appear with the preview option. Choose to keep the full image with black or white borders, or fill the space–but this may crop part of your post.

• Taller Format: Posts take up more space in your feed and grid, making them stand out more on your profile and feed.

• Border Awareness: Keep important details away from the edges of your posts to avoid cropping key elements in your thumbnails.

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While this update may cause some disruption, Instagram has been hinting at the change for a while. It’s clear they’re aiming for more consistency across the platform. To ease this transition, Instagram is introducing new tools to give you more control over how your profile appears.

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New Features On The Way:

• Custom Thumbnails: New tools are coming to let you tweak your thumbnails to get your grid looking just how you like.

• Grid Reordering: You’ll be able to reorder your grid to make it look exactly how you want.

• Highlights Integration: Highlights will move into the grid with a dedicated tab. This gives you more space and flexibility in how you display your content.

• Direct-to-Grid Posting: You’ll soon be able to post directly to your grid, skipping the feed entirely to build a more aesthetic grid.

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Why It Matters?

If you’re using Instagram to showcase your brand or content, this update changes how visitors experience your profile. With this vertical shift, you’ll need to rethink your strategy to keep your content visually appealing and engaging. These new tools will help you tailor your profile to your goals. Instagram is positioning itself as the go-to platform for creators, particularly with its focus on Reels-style content. This move could be a response to TikTok’s recent challenges and the current focus on mobile-friendly vertical content.

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What About Ads?

Ad formats remain unchanged for now, but expect a growing emphasis on 4:5 video ads as brands leverage video for cost-efficient reach. If you’re not testing video ads yet, this could give competitors a chance to outpace you in cost-efficiency. Keep an eye out for how this update impacts your creative approach.

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Conclusion

Instagram’s move towards a vertical grid is a significant change, but it’s one that aligns with the platform's broader focus on video-first content while offering more control for creators. With new tools  like customisable thumbnails and grid reordering on the way, it's time to adapt your strategy and keep your profile fresh and engaging. 

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Need help adapting your social strategy? We're here to help.

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The PK Team