Instagram introduced a new feature called “Snapshots” on May 13, 2026. However, users have mixed reactions to the feature.
The feature allows users to share instant, unedited photos directly with their followers, which disappear after 24 hours. This acts more like sharing quick, unedited snapshots of your daily life.
While some people find the spontaneity fun, others have complained that the continuous presence of temporary content fills up their inboxes. Fortunately, however, the process to turn off Instants is quite simple.
How to permanently disable Instants
To make sure Instants don’t appear in your inbox, open Instagram and go to your profile page, which you can access by tapping on the photo in the bottom right corner of the screen.
In the three-line menu in the top right corner, go to “Content Preferences,” where you should find “Hide Snaps in Inbox.” Turning this option on effectively guarantees that you won’t see any Instagram Instas.
Turn off instant notifications
To turn off notifications only, turn off push notifications separately.
To do this, access your profile, menu icon, settings, notifications, snapshots. Select “Off” to turn off instant reaction and emoji alerts.
Quick Instagram Instants Temporary Silence
For those who just need a break without permanently disabling the feature, there is another method.
Go to the direct message inbox, touch and hold the Instant stack/stack, and then swipe right to hide it.
To reverse, simply swipe left in the same area.
