Instagram is currently testing a new feature called Community Chats, which aims to enhance group conversations by offering an experience similar to Discord’s organized chat rooms. The feature, which is being gradually rolled out to select users, will allow people to create topic-based discussions within the Instagram app.

A New Way to Connect

With social media platforms continuously evolving to keep up with user preferences, Instagram’s Community Chats seeks to provide a structured and engaging space for group interactions. Unlike traditional group DMs, this new feature will allow users to join large communities with multiple sub-chats dedicated to specific topics. This setup resembles Discord’s server-based model, where members can communicate through text, voice, or video in different channels.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, first introduced the idea in September 2022 as part of a broader push to enhance group communication. Now, the company is expanding the testing phase, aiming to integrate a more interactive and real-time discussion feature within the platform.

Key Features of Community Chats

Instagram’s Community Chats will include several notable functionalities:

• Topic-Specific Group Chats: Users can create or join chat groups focused on shared interests, hobbies, or discussions.

• Admin Controls: Group creators will have moderation tools to manage conversations, approve members, and set guidelines.

• Seamless Instagram DM Integration: Unlike standalone community apps, this feature will be built directly into Instagram’s messaging system, making it more accessible.

• Text, Audio, and Video Support: Members will have options to interact through different media formats.

• Public and Private Access: Communities can be made open for anyone to join or restricted to invite-only access.

Meta’s Push Toward Community Engagement

This move aligns with Meta’s broader strategy of strengthening social connections through its apps. The company has been experimenting with similar community-driven features across its platforms, including Facebook Groups and Messenger Communities. With Community Chats, Instagram aims to encourage users to spend more time engaging in discussions without having to switch between multiple apps.

How It Compares to Discord

While Discord remains the leading platform for organized community discussions, Instagram’s Community Chats could serve as an alternative for casual users who prefer to keep their interactions within a familiar app. The integration into Instagram’s existing ecosystem means users won’t need to download additional apps to participate in group conversations.

However, one key difference is that Discord offers deeper customization, including bot integration, server roles, and advanced voice chat features, which Instagram may not fully replicate.

When Will It Be Available?

Currently, Instagram is rolling out Community Chats in a limited capacity, with select users getting early access. Meta has yet to announce an official global release date, but if the feature proves successful, a broader launch could happen in the coming months.

As Instagram continues to refine its messaging experience, Community Chats could become a valuable tool for influencers, hobby groups, and general users looking to engage in more meaningful conversations.

Stay tuned for further updates on when this feature will be available to all users.