Remember Snapchat Maps? Well, Instagram has just launched its own version, and people are really wary of it. If you’re concerned, here’s how to turn your location off.
There was a time when everyone was checking where their friends were on the Snapchat Map, but then people realised being able to see locations is actually pretty creepy. It raised serious safety concerns, with many worried about potential stalking.
Instagram’s version is almost identical, so people are already warning others to turn the feature off. If you want to switch off location sharing, this is how to do it.
y’all please turn your location off on #INSTAGRAM. They just added a maps feature & everyone who follows you can zoom in & see exactly where you are including the ppl that you dont follow back.
this is crazy. pic.twitter.com/6O2s77efV9
— LL (@1auren1o) August 7, 2025
So, what actually is Instagram’s new ‘Map’ feature?
As explained by Instagram, the new feature lets you “stay up-to-date with friends” using a brand new Instagram map. The map is located at the top of your inbox screen.
If you opt in, the map will share your last active location with your friends. It will update every time you open the app, but location sharing can be turned off at any time.
You can choose exactly who you want to share your location with in the settings: Friends (followers you follow back), close friends, only selected friends, or no one.
The maps feature also lets you see content that people you follow are posting from various locations. You can still do this even if you’re not sharing your own location.
Instagram has currently rolled out the map feature in the United States, but it isn’t available anywhere else yet. They say more “global availability” will be coming soon.
Credit: Instagram
Here’s how to turn off your location on Instagram’s maps
Instagram says your location is automatically defaulted to off unless you opt in. So, if you’ve never turned on the maps feature, it won’t be on, and you’re not sharing your location with anyone.
However, it’s probably worth checking just to make sure. To check that location sharing on Instagram is off:
- Go to your inbox screen
- Open the “Map” feature at the top
- Click the “Settings” icon
- Make sure the toggle next to “Turn on Location Services” is off
Maps isn’t the only new feature on the app this week. Instagram has launched a new “Repost” button, too!
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Featured image by: Instagram
