Instagram has been working on a new paid feature called ‘Instagram Plus’. Basically, the platform is giving Stories some serious upgrades and aiming to put more power in creators’ hands – all while finding another way to make money. This is not just hearsay; they have started testing the subscription, and it feels a lot like Snapchat Plus.
If you are already using that, you will probably recognise the approach: exclusive features built to boost engagement and give you more control.
Instagram tests new paid subscription feature
For starters, Instagram Plus zeros in on Stories. Right now, you only get “Close Friends” to customise who sees your content. With Plus, you will supposedly get to make multiple audience lists—think one for family, one for coworkers, and one just for your inside jokes. Previewing your Story before it goes live? Yup. Searching through your viewers? That too. It’s all about making life easier for anyone who wants to manage or grow their audience.
Extended story duration and insights
Here’s the part a lot of people will love: your Stories won’t vanish after 24 hours. Instagram Plus lets you keep them visible for even longer—so more people can actually see them, and you don’t have to keep reposting. Plus, you get detailed stats, like how many times someone rewatched your Story. That’s huge for creators who want to know what’s really connecting with their followers.
Exclusive features for higher engagement
Instagram Plus could also roll out things like “Superlike” or “Super Hearts”—reactions that let you show a little more love than a standard heart. Want to make one Story stand out for the week? You’ll get a “spotlight” tool. And if you like quietly checking Stories without popping up in people’s viewers list, you’ll finally get that option.
Pricing and availability
They’re testing Instagram Plus in places like the Philippines right now, charging about Rs. 100 a month and tossing in a free trial for the first month. Instagram says they’re just trying it out in a few spots for now, and there’s no word yet on when everyone else gets a shot.
Other updates on Instagram
And a quick heads up: Instagram’s also shutting down end-to-end encrypted chats after May 8, so if you want to keep your conversations and media, you'd better download them soon.