Users who use Snapchat can imagine how a social media friend can know the location of another friend on the map. However, in a similar way, Instagram is in the talks to be working on a captivating new feature dubbed, “Friend Map,” that will show the real-time location of the friends.
According to leaks, Instagram might introduce a world map-style layout where users can visualize the whereabouts of their connections across the globe, based on shared location data. Additionally, users may have the option to voluntarily place themselves on the map by sharing posts with location tags.
A leak by mobile developer Alessandro Paluzzi on February 24, shared on X, unveiled intriguing details about this potential feature. Paluzzi showcased multiple screenshots of the Friend Map, hinting at its imminent arrival.
#Instagram keeps working on “Friend map”: your friends, on a map 👀
ℹ️ Your location is end-to-end encrypted
Let’s see how it works 👇 https://t.co/iBeR0nec61 pic.twitter.com/5dxTZN0OUB
— Alessandro Paluzzi (@alex193a) February 24, 2024
The Friend Map may encompass various potential features, such as the ability to selectively choose which friends have access to shared location information, end-to-end encryption to secure location data, and a straightforward process for adding posts to the map by incorporating location details. A leaked screenshot also indicated Instagram’s inclusion of precise controls, allowing users to manage who can view their last active location. These controls include options like Ghost Mode (where nobody sees it), Followers you follow back, and Close Friends. As of now, there is limited information available regarding additional aspects of this feature.
