Instagram launches Blend feature for shared Reels experience: Instagram has launched a new and exciting feature called Blend, which is currently available globally. Designed to boost user engagement, Blend personalizes the Reels feed and enables users to share that with a friend or group. With this, Instagram aims to make Reels more discoverable and entertaining through shared material updating daily.
What is Instagram Blend Feature?
Blend allows users to curate a custom Reels feed to share with someone or a group. Users can make multiple Blend feeds based on different interests and viewing habits. The feeds get updated daily to provide new and engaging Reels whenever users access them. The goal is to provide a dynamic and social content experience that gets users coming back.
How Does Blend Work?
To join a Blend, users are required to be invited. The invite procedure begins through Instagram Direct Messages. When a user invites in a conversation and the other agrees, the Blend becomes activated in the conversation thread. Then, users are able to search and watch together shared Reels in the conversation. Any reaction or like on a Reel within the Blend feed will notify all members within the group, giving it an interactive layer.
Steps to Create a Blend Feed
To create a Blend feed, open a group or one-on-one DM conversation. Tap on the new Blend icon that appears on the chat screen. Click Invite to send out the Blend invitation. The group feed will start once any of the invited members accept it. Users can visit the shared feed at any time by tapping on Blend in the chat.
Spotify Blend Inspiration
Instagram’s Blend feature was patterned after Spotify’s most popular Blend feature enabling users to create and share their own, personal playlists with friends or loved ones. They shift on a daily basis according to individuals’ preferences. Similarly, Instagram’s Blend feed refreshes daily to provide new Reels to the relevant group of interest.
This feature not only brings entertainment to sharing content but also increases social activity in the app. By notifying all the members every time someone reacts to a Reel, Blend maintains an incessant loop of activity. It gives users a reason to return, discover new content, and interact with their clique according to shared tastes.