The lockdown, amongst other things, has forced us to connect with people virtually. Well, what’s the choice really? But in the bet of staying in touch, shuttling between different messaging applications can get really tricky. If not downright annoying. To tackle this universal issue, at least for its users, social media giant Facebook recently announced that it will be integrating its Messenger app, with Instagram. Here’s what we know.
What changes?
Users on the Messenger app will be able to chat with Instagram users without having to download another app all together. And vice versa. Though this messaging feature will be merged and feature both the apps, the applications Messenger and Instagram however, will be standalone apps. With the users’ inbox remaining separate for both. This simply means, say for example your Instagram account has X, Y, Z as contacts and Messenger has A, B, C as contacts. While on your Instagram, you can view X, Y, Z on your contacts list. Not A, B, C.
But if B wants to text you on Instagram (and if you permit him to) he can. And you can respond.
Added benefits
Instagram is said to benefit from Messenger specific features, according to the official statement. Instagram users, though, can decide whether they’d want to update the app for this new experience right away, or not.
Facebook will reportedly add 10 more features including selfie stickers, watch together, vanish mode, communicating across both the apps, chat colours, custom emojis, message controls and most most importantly, reporting and blocking updates. To name a few. Having said that, the update doesn’t require Instagram users to have Facebook accounts and vice versa. Future plans also involve incorporating Whatsapp within the integration fold.
Privacy concerns
Facebook however hasn’t been making headlines for good reasons, off late. With privacy and data usage concerns flying high and about for quite a while now, Facebook did tend to these doubts too. With the new update users will reportedly have greater choice when it comes to maintaining privacy. This by means of choosing where you’d want your messages to go – under chats, message requests and completely blocked chats. You could also report activity and block unwanted contacts, also making use of the Safety Notices feature earlier particular to Messenger.
While the official statement also mentioned that not all countries globally will enjoy the features in the first go, the officials haven’t specified the nations.
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