Meta seems to be working on a new way of sharing photos and videos that last only as long as they are viewed, which could be the start of a new rivalry with the disappearing messages feature that Snapchat is known for, reported The New Indian Express. According to reports, Meta is developing a project called Instants, which is a new app that focuses on private and temporary communication, not posting.
Shift to private and moment-based sharing
Unlike the main Instagram App, which is centred on feeds, reels, and stories, Instants is reported to be centered on private sharing between friends. The new App will allow users to send photos and videos that will last only until they are viewed, which will shift the focus from posting to private and temporary communication. This is similar to the way that Snapchat was used, which was for brief and private communication.
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Currently, the new App is still in the testing phase. Meta has confirmed that they are experimenting with new features but that the App is not available for public use. There is also no confirmation if the App will be released to the public.
Uncovering Instants via App code
The prototype was first unearthed by mobile developer Alessandro Paluzzi, who is known for uncovering new features by analysing application code, as reported by The Indian Express. The term "Instants" was found on the "Also from Meta" page of Instagram, where it was described as a service for sending disappearing photos to friends. This new feature suggests that Meta is interested in improving its temporary messaging environment.
#Instagram is working on a standalone app for Instants/Quicksnap ĆĀ°Ć ĀøĆ¢ā¬ĖĆ¢āĀ¬ pic.twitter.com/d56vOeoGap
Ć¢ā¬ā Alessandro Paluzzi (@alex193a) February 8, 2026
In-App version already in testing
In addition to the standalone application, Meta is also testing an in-app version of Instants on Instagram. This version was previously known as "Shots" in its development stages. This version of the application allows users to send disappearing photos via direct messages. Photos can either be deleted after opening or expire after 24 hours, a format that closely resembles that of Snapchat's core service.
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Instagram already has features such as View Once and Vanish Mode, which allow for temporary messaging. Instants, whether it be an in-app service or a standalone application, seems to be an extension of these services rather than something new.
