Instagram MapWhat parents need to know about Instagram's new location feature

Some Instagram users will have noticed in the last few days that something has changed on the platform. The app informs them that their exact location can now be transmitted. This happens every time you open Instagram. Other users can then see where the person is located on a map. According to Instagram, the function is intended to help friends know even better what they are doing. In our article, we explain to parents how the Instagram Map works and why caution is advised when sharing your location.

What parents need to know about Instagram's new location feature

The new "Instagram Map" function is initially deactivated for all accounts. The location transmission does not take place automatically, but must first be switched on. As soon as this is done, the app transmits the exact location to Instagram each time it is used. This is then displayed on the "Instagram Map". This allows friends, for example, to see that you are nearby. Users can decide who can see their location. This is possible for larger groups - for example, all friends you have on Instagram - or just for individuals. Instagram also states that you can exclude certain locations. If you are there, your location will never be transmitted. It is important to know that your location will only be shared with all your friends (i.e. accounts that you follow and that follow you back). It is never shown to all Instagram users and strangers.

The most important things in a nutshell

  • The new function is deactivated by default for all accounts.
  • If it is activated, the location is updated every time the app is opened and shown to other users on a map.
  • Users can choose who they want to share their location with, for example with specific people or groups. Individual people can also be excluded.
  • According to Instagram, individual locations can also be excluded. If you are there, the location will not be shared.
  • Instagram does not share the exact location with strangers. The largest group with which you can share your location is "All friends".

What do parents need to know about the new Instagram Map?

The new Instagram Map function is available to all users. Teen accounts (i.e. users aged between 13 and 17) can also use it and share their location there. For parents, Instagram now offers the so-called parental control offers. With their own Instagram account, they can monitor their children's activities on the platform and make safety settings. At the moment, teen accounts can switch on the "Instagram Map" function, but their parents will be informed of this by the "Parental Supervision" feature. Parents can then deactivate location sharing again.

If parental guidance is not used or the child has identified themselves as being over 18 when registering, teen accounts can also share their location on the Instagram Map.

The most important things for parents

  • Parental supervision can be used for children between the ages of 13 and 17 on Instagram. Parents will be informed when the child activates the new location function.
  • According to the general terms and conditions , children under the age of 13 arenot allowed touse Instagram .
  • If parents want to allow their child to use the Instagram map, they should first make sure that the child's Instagram friends are trustworthy. Depending on the settings, all of these people could see where the child is.
  • If the child wants to use the new function, parents should discuss the pros and cons together and find out what the child hopes to gain from the Instagram Map. You can then decide together whether the function is useful or whether it is better to leave it switched off.