Instagram is testing a new feature where users can see their mutuals’ live locations on a map. While the feature is another attempt to enhance engagement and connect people, it raises major concerns about safety and privacy for users.
The “Map” feature was first known to be in development in Feb. 2024 as “Friend Map.” It allows users to share their real-time location with mutual followers, “Close Friends” lists or no one. This feature is opt in, meaning that it is not enabled by default and users are actively required to share their location. The feature also allows users to add Notes to specific locations with the goal of enhancing interaction within the app
Instagram has been known for copying other social media apps features such as Reels and Threads, features stolen from those of TikTok and X, and this new addition is no exception. The Map feature strongly resembles Snapchat’s SnapMap, although Instagram’s version doesn’t include an overhead map showing everyone’s location at once. “I wouldn’t feel as comfortable with this new feature because I have way more people added on Instagram compared to Snapchat and it would be weird having location on. I don’t even share my location on Snapchat,” said junior Isaac Shepherd.
At the moment, the feature is only available for small sets of users as it is still in testing stages.
Despite Instagram’s assurance of the opt-in setting, experts warn that it can still pose a major safety threat as many users are not fully aware of the terms they are agreeing to.
Opt in settings can be manipulative as it encourages people to share more than they are comfortable with. “I don’t think that people realize how much they give out about their personal information,” said senior Carly Hiatt. “Social media companies should have more limits to what user data they can access and limit the ages that can access social media as well.”
Even with these privacy controls, apps have a history of location data misuse.
Apps have the capability to know every single detail of a consumer’s life, leaving little room for questioning features. This isn’t just a harmless feature, but another example of how social media corporations subtly corrode privacy and tighten their grip on users under the name of connection.
Through features like live location sharing, social media companies can gather even more personal information. These features influence how people act, where they go and who they interact with. “I think for young people social media can have a negative effect on their lives. It encourages comparison and can be damaging for mental health,” explained Shepherd. “Having locations would increase social media in young people’s lives. Especially for young people, I think it is healthy for them to spend time away from social media and their phones.”
Beyond the conspicuous dangers of stalking or harassment, location sharing gradually normalizes daily surveillance. With all of these implications, there is a bigger issue. Should corporations have this much access to personal information?
Social media companies make billions from collecting, analyzing and selling personal data.
Instagram’s live location feature has serious safety implications and serves as another tool for big tech to grow their arsenal of control over consumers’ personal lives. As social media companies continue to blur the lines between connection and control, it is up to users to protect whatever little digital boundaries we have left.
