Instagram Launches ’Scrawl‘ – A New Ephemeral Messaging Feature
Instagram users now have a new way to connect with close friends through “Scrawl,” a recently released feature enabling fast, disappearing text and doodle messages.The update, rolling out globally, introduces a playful, informal communication method within the platform already known for visual storytelling.
Launched in late 2023, Scrawl allows users to send text and drawings that vanish after being viewed, similar to Snapchat or Instagram Stories’ “Close Friends” feature. This addition signals InstagramS continued effort to compete for user attention in the fast-paced social media landscape, particularly among younger demographics who favor ephemeral content. With over 2 billion monthly active users as of 2023, Instagram-acquired by Meta (formerly Facebook) in 2012-is constantly evolving, adding features like Stories, Reels, and live broadcasts to maintain its relevance. scrawl builds on this strategy,offering a more casual and spontaneous messaging experience alongside existing direct messaging capabilities.
The feature is accessible through the Instagram Direct inbox. Users can initiate a Scrawl message by selecting a friend’s name and tapping the “scrawl” icon. Messages can be customized with various colors and brush sizes, encouraging creative expression. Once the recipient views the message, it disappears, fostering a sense of immediacy and privacy.
Instagram’s parent company, Meta, has been actively integrating new features across its platforms to enhance user engagement and attract new audiences.scrawl represents a strategic move to cater to evolving communication preferences and strengthen Instagram’s position as a thorough social platform for both personal and professional use. The feature is expected to appeal to content creators, brands, and businesses seeking more dynamic ways to interact with their communities.
