A Guide to Utilizing Instagram Blend, Meta’s Latest Reels Functionality

Instagram has introduced Blend, a new feature that allows users to create a private feed of recommended Reels within their direct messages. While the purpose may seem a bit unclear, it holds promise for those looking to better understand the algorithms of their friends and partners—an intriguing aspect that might actually resonate with users. You could liken it to Spotify’s Blend playlists, which provide a pleasant backdrop during social gatherings or help users discover shared interests. However, this feature focuses on scrolling through Instagram Reels quietly alongside others. It could transform the Reels experience into a more collaborative and less solitary activity. Ultimately, if nothing else, this feature may encourage longer user engagement—an advantage for Instagram.

The feature has been in development since at least March 2024, with testing underway among a select group of users during that time. It will function in both one-on-one direct messages and group chats. “We want Instagram to be a place where people connect over creativity, and this is one more way to do that. It’s a fun opportunity to not only share your interests but also to learn about your friends’ preferences… and then you can actually start conversations about the content you discover,” said Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, in a Reel.

How to use Instagram Blend

Step 1:
Open a DM and tap Blend
The Blend icon should appear at the top right of a conversation.

Step 2:
Tap “Invite”
Once you accept or initiate a Blend, you and your chat will be able to browse through suggested Reels. When you or a friend respond to Reels in the Blend using the reply bar, it will be sent back to the chat, keeping the conversation alive.

Step 3:
Scroll away
Once at least one other participant accepts the invitation, the Blend will commence and will refresh daily.