What is Instagram Direct

Instagram added Direct in version 5. Many people still don’t know how to use it. It’s convenient, has a simple interface, and is easy for beginners. Direct is the tab you always see—for chatting with other users. With it you can:

• send messages;
• send documents;
• share photos, videos, stories, and posts;
• react to stories;
• create a private group chat.

You can save content, talk to friends and clients, and more. There are some limits, which we cover below.

Where to find Direct in Instagram?

Instagram keeps the interface minimal, so some users have trouble finding Direct. The Direct tab is in the top right, next to the heart icon. Tap it to open your DMs and use all Direct features.

How to send a DM?

Follow these steps:

1. Tap the Direct icon in the top right. Your conversations list will open.
2. To message someone, tap the pencil/paper icon, choose the person, then tap "Message".
3. A chat will open where you can send text, voice, photo, video, or a document. You can message people you don’t follow, but they may need to accept the chat first.

You can see when the other person has read your message ("Seen"). Sometimes the time they saw it is shown too.

How to add a link in Direct?

Open Direct (tap the icon in the top right), then the pencil icon and pick a recipient (or search). Copy the link and paste it into the message. After you send, it will appear as a blue clickable link with preview.

Sending messages from a computer

To use DMs on a computer, use the official app, a browser, a browser extension, or an Android emulator. Instagram is also available in the web version.

Easiest: open Instagram in the browser, log in, and tap the paper plane icon. Then:

• choose an existing chat or tap "Send message" and select a user;
• the conversation with all sent and received messages will open.

If messages don’t load, check your connection. From a PC you can both read and send messages—type in the "Message" field. You can also send emojis, voice notes, photos, videos, and links to posts or profiles. To send a file, choose it from your device.

How to send a voice message?

Open Direct and the chat. Tap and hold the microphone icon next to the text field to record. When you release, the message is sent.

You can delete a recorded but unsent message by swiping it left or tapping the trash icon while holding the mic.

1. Save time—you can share a lot in a short message.
2. Hands-free—useful when you’re busy.
3. Tone and emotion come through better than in text.

Direct notification settings

You can control notifications by email or SMS. To set them:

• tap the three lines in the top right on your profile;
• tap Settings at the bottom;
• choose "Notifications".

You can:

• turn app notifications on or off;
• choose how you’re notified (push, SMS, or email);
• choose who can trigger notifications (everyone or a specific list).

Set what works for you; the app will follow your preferences.

How to start a video chat?

Instagram has added one-on-one and group video chats. Open Direct (tap the icon or swipe left). Then:

1. Open the chat you want to video with, or create a new one (pencil icon, then choose a user).
2. In the chat, tap the camera icon at the top right. If it’s your first time, the app may ask for camera permission. The call will start; when they answer, video begins.

You can also have group video calls with up to 4 people—handy for meetings or projects. There’s no time limit for these calls.

Quick replies in Direct

This option is useful for business. Quick replies are saved message templates for chatting with customers. The feature is only for business accounts.

Prepare answers to common questions from potential clients, then go to your account and settings.

How to use quick replies in Direct?

To use quick replies in Instagram Direct:

1. Open your account and go to Settings.
2. Select "Business" and then "Saved replies".
3. Type the full message and a shortcut word.
4. Tap the checkmark to save.

You can edit or delete a quick reply by tapping it. Handy for FAQs, thank-you messages, and promotions.

Direct limits:

Instagram and Direct have limits you should respect:

1. Don’t send the same message to many people—it can be treated as spam.
2. Rough daily limits: about 100 messages to people who follow you, 50 to new users.
3. One message can’t be more than 500 characters; split long texts.
4. Don’t send spam, 18+ content, or violent content—it can get you blocked.

You can block messages from certain users and use filters for safety.

Direct for business:

Direct isn’t just for personal chat—it’s useful for talking to customers, sales, and campaigns. Learning it can give you a real advantage.

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