Cool Instagram Features You Probably Missed

Instagram is packed with features, filters, and functionalities but are you really making the most of everything it has to offer? Whether you’re a casual scroller, content creator, or aspiring influencer, there are plenty of cool Instagram tricks hiding in plain sight.

In this guide, we’re diving into the best Instagram hidden features that even experienced users might not be using. From clever tools that boost your privacy to underrated ways to enhance your content, these Instagram tips and hacks will level up your social media game instantly.

Saved Replies: Save Time in Your DMs

If you receive a lot of direct messages, especially the same questions over and over, Instagram’s Saved Replies feature is a game-changer. Originally designed for business accounts, this tool allows you to create quick responses you can insert into any conversation.

How to use it:

• Go to Settings > Business > Saved Replies

• Add a shortcut and the full message

• Type the shortcut in a DM, and it’ll suggest your saved reply

This is one of those Instagram features you didn’t know you needed until you use it perfect for saving time and keeping responses consistent.

Close Friends for Stories: Share Privately

Want to post a story but not share it with everyone? The Close Friends feature lets you create a private list of followers who can see exclusive content in your stories.

Why it’s cool:

• Great for posting personal updates without broadcasting to your entire following

• You can change your list anytime

• Adds a green ring around your story so people know it’s special

It’s one of the most useful Instagram privacy tools that many overlook.

Pin Comments to Highlight the Best

Instagram allows you to pin up to three comments at the top of your post. This is especially helpful for guiding the conversation, highlighting praise, or showcasing important information.

To pin a comment:

• Swipe left on the comment

• Tap the pin icon

This underrated tool gives you more control over the tone of your comment section and keeps the best messages visible.

Instagram Guides: Curate and Share Recommendations

Launched quietly, Instagram Guides let you create scrollable posts with text and images around a specific theme like a blog post within the app.

Use it to:

• Share product lists

• Recommend places or businesses

• Curate your own or others’ posts into a single guide

It’s one of the best Instagram tools for creators, brands, and even regular users who want to offer more value than a single post can deliver.

Story Archive and Highlights: Keep Your Best Moments

Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours, but the Story Archive feature automatically saves them in your account. You can then organize them into Highlights on your profile.

Why it matters:

• Preserve memories and moments

• Group Stories into categories (travel, tutorials, Q&A, etc.)

• Keep your profile fresh and engaging

Many users overlook this functionality, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to extend the life of your content.

Interactive Stickers: Boost Engagement

Stories aren’t just for visuals they’re for interaction. Using polls, quizzes, and the emoji slider, you can turn any story into a two-way experience.

Examples:

• Use a poll to get opinions on your next post

• Run a quiz for fun facts or trivia

• Let followers rate something with the emoji slider

These are simple but effective Instagram tips and hacks for increasing story views and engagement.

AR Filters and Effects: Go Beyond the Basics

Sure, everyone uses filters but did you know there’s an entire Effects Gallery where you can explore custom filters made by creators around the world?

How to find them:

• Open the Stories camera

• Swipe right on the filter icons

• Tap “Browse Effects”

From fun and quirky to cinematic and professional, these tools can elevate your content in seconds.

Remix for Reels: Collaborate Creatively

The Remix feature lets you create a side-by-side Reel with another video. It’s perfect for reaction videos, duets, or collaborations with other creators.

To remix a Reel:

• Tap the three dots on a Reel

• Select “Remix this Reel”

• Record your own next to the original

This makes content creation feel collaborative and keeps your Reels engaging.

Collabs Feature: Co-Author Your Posts

Instead of tagging someone, you can now co-author posts or Reels. With the Collabs feature, both accounts share the same content, it shows up on both feeds and combines likes and comments.

How to use it:

• When uploading a post, tap “Tag People”

• Select “Invite Collaborator” and choose a user

This is one of the best Instagram updates in 2025 for growing your reach faster.

Privacy and Control You Might Have Missed

Instagram gives users more control than ever if you know where to look.

Hidden Words Filter:

Block offensive or unwanted words in comments and DMs.

Go to Settings > Privacy > Hidden Words

Restrict vs Block:

Instead of fully blocking someone, use Restrict to hide their comments and messages without them knowing.

Activity Status Toggle:

Turn off your online status so others can’t see when you’re active.

Bonus Features and Tricks

You’re not done yet here are a few more Instagram features you probably missed:

Recently Deleted:

Recover posts, stories, or Reels you accidentally deleted within 30 days.

Desktop Features:

Instagram on desktop now lets you post photos, reply to DMs, and view insights.

Time Spent Tracker:

Go to Settings > Your Activity > Time Spent to monitor your app usage and set reminders.

Reorder Story Highlights:

Long-press a Highlight to edit and reorder them for better visual branding.

Conclusion

Instagram is more than just a place to post photos it’s a toolbox packed with features that enhance your creativity, improve your privacy, and help you connect more deeply with your audience.

From Instagram hidden features like Guides and Collabs to creative tools like Remix and AR filters, there’s always something new to explore. By incorporating these cool Instagram tricks into your routine, you’ll not only stand out but enjoy the platform in a whole new way.