Instagram is working on a feature called “Picks” that aims to help users find common interests. The Meta-owned social network confirmed to TechCrunch that Picks is an internal prototype and isn’t being tested externally.
The feature was first spotted by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, who often finds unreleased features while they’re still under development.
According to screenshots shared by Paluzzi, people select their favorite movies, books, TV shows, games, and music, or their “Picks.” Instagram then finds overlaps with friends who chose the same things.
While Instagram hasn’t shared any details about the feature, the company likely views Picks as a way for users to connect more personally with friends and spark conversations around shared interests.
Instagram head Adam Mosseri said earlier this year that the social network was going to focus on creativity and connection in 2025. “To help people connect with friends over the things they discover on Instagram, we’re going to double down on messaging, make consuming content more interactive and social, and explore new ways to connect with friends,” Mosseri wrote in a January Instagram post.
Of course, not everyone will welcome Picks, as it adds yet another feature to an already overcrowded app. Instagram is facing backlash following the launch of Instagram Map, with many users saying they never wanted the feature in the first place.
As with any other feature in development, it’s known when or if Instagram plans to officially roll out Picks.
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