Instagram Isn't WORKING Anymore
Instagram Isn't WORKING Anymore
We’re only in the first week of the new year and Instagram has done it again… shaking things up just when we finally stopped complaining about the 2025 changes.
So if your brain is already tired, don’t worry my dear readers because (as always) I’ve got you.
Here is EVERYTHING you need to know about what’s changing on the ‘gram in 2026.
Okay… well part one, because obviously it’s a lot.
1. Screenshot alerts are expanding
Last year, screenshot notifications were limited but now in 2026, IG is doubling down on privacy-first DMs. So here is what’s new for you:
Screenshot alerts now apply to photos and videos sent via DM
Notifications trigger even if someone screen-records
One-time-view media is extra protected (yes, even workarounds)
In other words, if you’re sending spicy, sensitive, or exclusive content in DMs, people will know if it’s saved. So here’s my tip for you… if you sell, tease, or soft-launch offers via DMs, this actually builds trust. Your audience knows their replies are private too.
2. Trial Reels = Smart Trials
You know I spoke A LOT about Trial Reels last year, and now they’re getting a Kris Jenner facelift to something I’m calling “Smart Trials.” And here’s two major points you need to know about this major update. One: Trial Reels now test multiple micro-audiences (not just one For You pool). Two: You can now edit captions and hooks after the trial without restarting it.
You’ll find Trial right inside your Reel draft now with a tiny analytics preview button on top.
3. Engagement Quality > Engagement Quantity
LISTEN UP BECAUSE this is BIG in 2026. Instagram is officially prioritizing meaningful engagement, not just hearts and emojis. What counts now are:
Replies longer than 3 words
Back-and-forth comment threads
DMs that continue beyond one message
Saves and shares > likes
This means you have to engage like a HUMANNNNN… meaning you have to reply thoughtfully… ask follow-up questions… drop voice notes in DMs.
IS is literally tracking how you engage, not just if you do.
Okay, so that’s it for part one. Part two gets into AI captions, follower filtering, and why Stories matter again.
Subscribe so you don’t miss it and pleaseeee send this to a friend who’s constantly saying “IG just isn’t working anymore.”
Trust me… it is. You just need the updates.
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XX Idalia