At a time when more personalised content is being curated for users, Instagram has announced a new feature called Blend enabling users to share reels privately as well as in groups. The new feature, which users can enable by connecting with their friends via DMs, allows them to see the same reels in their feeds.
This way one no longer needs to bombard their friends with reels in their DMs. In simple words, the Blend feature lets two users have the same reels appear on their respective feeds. With Blend, it essentially brings back the personal touch that social media once had.
Blend not only enhances engagement but also keeps the conversation going between you and your friend. If you are new to the feature, here is an easy guide to use it.
How does Blend work?
Although the short video format is available across many platforms, Blend is currently available on Instagram.
To use Blend:
▶️Log in to your Instagram account.
▶️Go to DMs (direct messages).
▶️Choose a chat/friend you want to ‘Blend’ with.
▶️In the top right corner, you can spot the Blend icon (a small icon that looks like a reverse yin-yang symbol).
▶️Once you click the icon, you will see an Invite button, and you are ready to roll.
In case you don’t see the icon, do not worry. The feature is visible only if your Instagram app is updated. After your friend accepts the invite, both of you will be able to see and react to each other’s Reels that have been personalised and recommended for each of you.
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What if you want to opt out of Blend?
Opting out from the Blend feature is simple. Go to the DMs, click on a chat, and then click on the Blend icon. In the top right corner, you’ll see a settings icon – click on it. Select the red option ‘Leave this Blend’. You will no longer be a part of that Blend with the selected person.
Is it revolutionary?
With the popularity of Reels, this new feature is likely to boost user engagement and increase the time spent on the platform. It encourages conversations based on shared interests, helps users discover what kind of Reels their friends enjoy, and allows for personal recommendations.
As of now, Blend is an invite-only feature, which means a user can only start a Blend when the other person accepts the invitation.
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