And you might be wondering, "But didn't that already exist?" Well, yes, marketer, it does. Instants exist in the regular Instagram app. It's a new feature they introduced a few months ago where you upload a photo that lasts for 24 hours (like Stories), but it's supposed to be much more natural and spontaneous. The difference with Stories is that you upload them at the top of your direct messages, where you can also add notes or songs.

However, they've now launched Instants, an app, available only in Italy and Spain, where users can share photos with their friends that they can only see once and that are only available for 24 hours.

How Instants Works

It makes perfect sense that it reminds you of the early days of Snapchat or even BeReal. Even though you might think nobody uses it, in our podcast with them we discovered that the reality is quite different. I recommend you check it out.

The main difference between this app and Instagram is that it's designed for you to take a photo in one take, without any editing options. And be aware, this is the case: when you take the photo, it's uploaded automatically. Furthermore, it doesn't allow screenshots, to ensure that the images "disappear." It's like when you send a photo that's meant to be viewed only once via WhatsApp or direct message. Photos can be shared with your close friends list or with the people you follow.

You can't upload photos from your phone; you have to use only the app's camera. The only thing you can do is add text. It also stores your photos so you can review what's happened to you in the last month. It's designed so users don't feel pressured to post perfect photos and can connect with their friends in a more natural way. It's available on Android and iOS.

We wanted to give it a try, but it wouldn't let us. We downloaded it, logged in with our account, clicked "Try It," and… it doesn't work.

We assume it's because it's been so incredibly successful that it might need some time to adjust to the large volume of users who have surely downloaded the app. Perhaps it works in Italy, but as of April 24, 2026, at 9:45 AM in Spain, the app is not available.

In the meantime, you can try it in Instagram Snapshots; just go to the direct messages tab, and Snapshots will appear in the bottom right corner.