How do I use ephemeral messages on Instagram?

Facebook has launched a new feature, theephemeral mode, to manage ephemeral messagesin its Messenger and Instagram apps. Specifically, this mode automatically deletes messages as soon as the recipient sees them. This article shows you how to use it.

What's ephemeral mode on Instagram?

On November 12, 2020, Facebook introduced a brand new feature exclusively for the Messenger and Instagram platforms. This time, ephemeral mode takes on one of Snapchat's main features, the ability to send messages that can be automatically deleted once seen.

This new feature is simple to use. As soon as you activate the ephemeral mode, you switch to a specific conversation window, in addition to the classic message. The ephemeral Instagram message assumes that Instagram messages are automatically deleted after they've been read.

The ephemeral mode leaves no trace. You won't see a hint of their existence after you leave the window dedicated to the conversation. The conversation will return to normal, and you can continue sending the usual messages to your interlocutor.

Be aware that your previous exchanges remain intact, even if you switch to ephemeral messages in the middle of a thread. You'll find your old messages again, out of ephemeral mode, after deactivating this feature.

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You can also configure conversations so that Instagram pc messages are deleted after a certain amount of time.

Why use ephemeral mode?

With ephemeral messages, your secrets stay safeand your privacy isn't invaded because the Internet won't have access to it.

By deleting your message history, you prevent third parties to your discussion, who might use your phone and open your account, from gaining access to it. It also prevents the content from being leaked to the outside world in the event of an information breach or falling into the hands of cybercriminals who might target your personal data.

The ephemeral mode is a great way to "clean up" your storage space as well as your chat window. It's the best alternative to prevent too many text messages, photos or videos saturating your phone's memory. Especially as your phone is likely to slow down if its memory is much overtaxed.

The insta ephemeral modeis also ideal for hiding sensitive subjects and secret conversations. As they disappear after a few minutes or seconds, your interlocutor would also be unable to use them or divulge the content, especially if you're chatting with a dubious person you don't fully trust.

How to activate ephemeral messages on Insta?

Ephemeral messages are now available on the messaging service Messenger. There are two ways to enable ephemeral messages in Messenger

The quick method

This method involvesswiping your finger from the bottom of the conversation to the top. The message "Hold to activate ephemeral mode" appears, along with a circular gauge that fills up in a second on the clock. The interface will then automatically lead you to the conversation with this mode activated.

The classic method

There's another, more traditional, but more time-consuming method. To do this, simply follow these steps:

1. Click on the'ℹ icon in the top right-hand corner of the conversation to access the settings;
2. Click on the'Ephemeral Mode" tab to activate it.
3. Press the back arrow to return to the conversation and it will appear in ephemeral mode.

When you send a message with ephemeral mode enabled, the other party immediately receives your message in a dedicated conversation window. If'they see your message, it will disappear automatically when you leave the chat and return.

To disable this mode, the "Disable ephemeral mode" button at the top of the'interface is highlighted. Click it to return to the original conversation. Note that this function is not available in group conversations. In addition, if a screenshot is taken, a text warning is displayed.

FAQ about ephemeral mode?

Can this mode be enabled on PC?

Yes, if ephemeral mode is enabled on the connected mobile device, it will also be enabled on Signal Desktop for PC.

Please note that the instagram pc ephemeral message does not yet support group conversations.

I can't activate ephemeral messages, how do I go about it?

There are a few conditions that must be met before you can access Instagram's ephemeral mode. First and foremost, you must bein one of the countries where this feature is available. Indeed, ephemeral messages on Instagram are not allowed in all countries. Remember, then, to check that you're logged in on the latest version of the Instagram app. Note that this second remark also applies to your interlocutor. If you can't activate this mode, you'll need to update your messaging in the same way as your contact.

How to view an ephemeral message on Instagram?

If a user wants to send you an ephemeral photo on instagram, you can view it by pressing the blue play button in the chat with that user. You can also access the conversation by tapping on it without looking at the chat.

Conclusion and summary

You now know "what is ephemeral mode on messenger" and the methods for activating and deactivating it. This mode allows you toprotect your privacy lduring chats, but don't forget that you can always take a screenshot if the other person wishes to keep your images or messages.