Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to limit who can see their live videos and reels by sharing them only with their Close Friends. Normally, when users post a new reel or start a live video on Instagram, all of their followers can see it. But now, users have the option to share these posts with a smaller, more select group of friends. Additionally, users can invite up to three extra co-hosts from their Close Friends list to join them in their live sessions.
The Close Friends feature itself isn’t new; Instagram introduced it in 2018. This feature was designed to let users connect more personally with their closest friends or family members by creating a private list of people with whom they can share more exclusive content. The recent update builds on this idea, giving users even more control over their audience by allowing them to share live videos and reels specifically with their Close Friends.
Here’s a simple guide on how to use this new feature for live videos and reels:
How to Share a Live Video with Close Friends
- Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app on your smartphone.
- Tap the Plus Button: Look for the plus button at the bottom of the screen and tap it.
- Select Live Option: Choose the Live option to start a live video.
- Choose Close Friends: At the top of the screen, you’ll see a Share With menu. Select Close Friends from there. Alternatively, a pop-up will appear, and you can choose Close Friends from the half-page menu that appears.
- Adjust Live Settings: Set up any other settings you need for your live video.
- Start Your Live Video: Once everything is set up, tap Done to begin your live video, which will now be visible only to your Close Friends.
How to Share a Reel with Close Friends
- Open Instagram: Launch the Instagram app on your smartphone.
- Create Your Reel: Make a reel as you normally would.
- Set Audience Before Sharing: Before sharing your reel, look for the Audience option and tap it.
- Select Close Friends: When prompted with the question of who you want to share your reel with, select Close Friends.
- Share Your Reel: After selecting Close Friends, tap Done to share your reel with only those people on your Close Friends list.
This new feature is great for users who want to share more private or personal moments without broadcasting them to all their followers. By creating these smaller circles within the app, Instagram users can maintain a more intimate and controlled sharing experience. Whether you’re doing a live video or sharing a fun reel, this feature ensures that only your selected Close Friends can view your content, making it easier to connect with those who matter most to you.