Hajra Naz
Instagram isn’t what it used to be in 2020. It’s not even the same platform it was three months ago.
The app is evolving—fast.
And that’s a good thing.
I get it — keeping up with social media changes can be exhausting. Even as someone who does this for a living, it’s a challenge.
But the truth is, if Instagram hadn’t changed and adapted, it would have faded into irrelevance.
Why? Because social platforms are at the mercy of their users. If people love short-form videos, platforms will prioritize them. If users change their behavior, the platform must follow suit.
So instead of resisting change, let’s embrace it.
Here are the 7 biggest Instagram changes you need to know in 2025 to stay ahead and grow.
1. Reach is More Balanced Across Formats
Yes, Reels are still king for reaching new audiences, but carousels and photos are making a comeback. Instagram is now distributing reach more evenly across formats.
The best content strategy?
- 40% Carousels
- 30% Videos (Reels)
- 20% Single Images
- 10% for experimenting with new formats
This mix keeps your content fresh and ensures you don’t rely too much on one type.
Read More: Followers or Likes: What’s More Important on Instagram?
2. Hashtags Are Fading, SEO is Rising
Hashtags used to be the go-to for discoverability, but now they’re cluttered and less effective. Instead, Instagram is moving towards search-based discovery (IG SEO).
Want your content to be found? Focus on keywords in captions, alt text, and profiles to rank higher in search.
3. Links Are Practically Useless
No social platform wants users to leave their app. That’s why Instagram suppresses content with external links.
So what’s the solution? DM automation. Instead of posting links, encourage followers to DM you a keyword to get your offer, guide, or freebie. This keeps engagement high while still driving conversions.
4. Collabs Are the Ultimate Growth Hack
Stop sleeping on collaborations! Partnering with other creators massively boosts engagement and reach.
In the last month alone, I’ve done three collaborations, and the results have been incredible.
Tagging another creator or doing a joint post exposes your content to a whole new audience. It’s one of the fastest ways to grow right now.
Read More: 7 Viral Instagram Theme Page Niches That Work in 2025
5. Diversification is More Important Than Ever
Instagram is making it easier to expand your social presence—especially with Threads.
I gained 70,000 followers on Threads last year, and it brought in thousands of leads. If you haven’t explored it yet, now’s the time.
6. Longer Content Shelf Life
Good content lasts longer than ever on Instagram. Posts that perform well continue getting reach days or even weeks after posting.
This means you don’t have to post daily to stay relevant. Instead, focus on quality over quantity—high-value content that resonates will do the heavy lifting for you.
7. New Metrics to Track
For years, saves were a strong indicator of virality. Not anymore.
Instagram is now prioritizing Shares and Reach-to-Engagement ratios. Even Instagram’s CEO confirmed that these are the key metrics to watch.
Want your content to go viral? Create shareable posts that people want to send to their friends, not just save for later.
Read More: How to delete Instagram, Facebook, and Threads
Final Thoughts: Adapt or Get Left Behind
Instagram isn’t dying—it’s evolving. The way we used to grow in 2020 doesn’t work the same way in 2025.
Stay ahead by:
- Mixing up your content formats
- Focusing on IG SEO over hashtags
- Using DM automation instead of links
- Leveraging collabs for growth
- Expanding to Threads
- Prioritizing shareable content
The creators who embrace these changes will thrive. Those who resist? Well, they’ll get left behind.
