Instagram direct messages, DMs have always been considered a strong point of the platform. In addition to conversing publicly through the exchange of comments, on the Meta social network it has been possible to exchange private messages, away from prying eyes, since 2013. Over time this functionality has been the subject of numerous updates. The most awaited of all was, probably, the one that made it possible to modify the texts after sending them.
Editing DMs on Instagram is therefore possible, but with limitations. Let’s find out what to do when you discover that you have made a mistake after sending a message and how much time you have available to proceed with its modification.
Editing messages in DM, the rules to respect
The Instagram developers wanted to satisfy the requests of the platform’s subscribers and introduce editing text messages sent in DM, in private chats. However, he wanted to set limits to prevent conversations from being tampered with without one of the parties involved realizing it.
For this reason, Instagram DM messages they can be modified only and exclusively within 15 minutes of their sending. Once this time window has passed, it will be impossible to change the content, the message will become permanent and it will be possible, if necessary, only to cancel its sending.
Editing of messages can be done both within the individual and group chats.
How to edit DM messages on Instagram
To edit a message you need to go to the DM area of the platform e locate and open the chat where you sent the content that you want to change. If the message was sent recently and the 15 minute limit set by the social network has not been exceeded, you can proceed.
Once the message has been identified, select it and hold down on the content and, in the menu that opens, locate the option Edit and click on it. Make the desired changes and press the button Sending. The content will be edited instantly by Instagram and will also be visible to the recipient user(s).
What to do if you still can’t edit messages
Message editing has been introduced on Instagram with an update. To ensure you can use the functionality, you must always keep the application updated to the latest version available.
To make sure you have performed all available updates, it is good enable automatic updates for Instagram on your device or view the page dedicated to the social network on the Apple App Store, if you have a device from the brand, or on the Google Play Store if you have an Android device.
If, despite the update, the functionality is still not available, we need to wait. It will soon be present for all subscribers to the platform.
To know more: How to use Instagram, the guide to make the best use of it