Instagram announced on Monday a significant update to its profile grid, introducing vertical-aligned thumbnails instead of the traditional square format.
This change, spearheaded by Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, aims to better accommodate the platform’s increasing prevalence of vertical content.
Read also: Instagram empowers creators with new in-app editing tools
Embracing vertical content
Mosseri explained that most uploaded photos and videos are now vertical, making rectangles a more suitable display format.
He stated, “We started with the tall grid because most photos and videos that are uploaded to Instagram at this point are vertical”.
This shift mirrors trends seen in TikTok, positioning Instagram as a stronger competitor in the social media space.
User reactions
The upgrade received mixed reviews. Many grid-creating influencers and users are frustrated.
An X user @connorrcoleman lamented, “The Instagram update is HORRENDOUS and ugly… years and years SINCE INCEPTION of people carefully crafting square grids”.
Another X user @ ch33secat stated, “Whoever had the brilliant idea to change the grid from squares to rectangles? Yeah, I hope you get fired,” said another, with an image of their botched grid.
The backlash highlights how integral these layouts have become to personal branding on the platform.
Read also: TikTok to ‘go dark’ for millions of Americans on Sunday
New features and customisation
In response to user concerns, Instagram is developing new tools for customising thumbnails and rearranging grid layouts.
Mosseri acknowledged this disruption, promising improvements, “We’re building a tool so you can re-order your entire grid and make it whatever you want”.