Instagram adds replay controls and feature for remixing friends' photos

Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to remix their friends' photos using doodles and similar things. The feature was announced today, though there is a limitation: you can only do this to photos they send you in a message, not ones they post on the service. That user can then add their own content to the remixed image if they want.

Though Instagram is still first and foremost a platform for sharing one's photography, it has slowly encroached upon Snapchat by swiping some of its features. This latest update gives it that Snapchat-like feel, making it a bit more appealing as a messaging platform rather than an image-sharing one. Instagram explains that users can bat back and forth the photos they get in private messages, adding their own content as they go.

The remixing feature supports doodling on the photos using drawing tools, adding text, and adding stickers. You can remix the images you receive by tapping the camera icon at the bottom of the photo message. The service has also added more controls over replays assuming you've updated to the latest version of the app.

Users can set a message for one view, which is exactly what it sounds like: a restriction that only allows the friend to view it one time. However, you can also set messages to "Allow Replay" so that they can view it more than one time. This applies to both videos and photos; if you choose Allow Replay, it will automatically loop. Tapping and holding will cause it to pause.

SOURCE: Instagram