Instagram Brings Green Online Indicator To Direct Messages

Instagram brings many subtle changes to its platform every once in a while. The latest development brings in the good old green online indicator to direct messages or DMs as they are widely known. When the person is online or available, the green indicator will show up on the avatar as depicted below.

Instagram used to be the platform where one could chat without being seen online. The added focus on privacy is what attracted me to the platform. That, unfortunately, changed a few months ago when Instagram added timestamps. If you had interacted with someone, they could see whether you are 'Active' or when you were last online. Those who hated the addition of timestamps will dislike the new status indicator.

Instagram knows that there will be mixed reactions to the addition of this feature. The company has, therefore, given the users the option to disable their active status. You can do so from Settings > Activity Status. When you will disable your activity status, both the timestamp and green indicator will be disabled for your profile.

Just like in WhatsApp, disabling your status will also hide the statuses of your followed contacts or the people you have converse over DMs. 

The new status indicator is rolling out to both Android and iOS users. You will have to update the Instagram app from the App Store or the Play Store to be able to use the feature. Instagram has been bringing in new features rapidly. Let's see what the company adds next!

Rajat Kapoor

Rajat Kapoor is a self confessed tech geek. Always up to date with what's going on in the tech world, he is currently pursuing MCA and prefers Android over iOS. You will see his articles here and we do hope that you find them useful and informational.