Instagram is at it again – More Changes!

Instagram is at it again – More Changes!

“Instagram just can’t sit still, can it? Another day, another algorithm update that changes the way we play the social media game.” Marian Staresinic, Partner at Branding & Buzzing

 

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Let’s break down what’s new (and what’s out) in a way that makes sense…


1️⃣ Quantity vs. Quality

🚫 Old Algorithm: More posts = better reach.
New Algorithm: Balance is key—quality AND quantity both matter now. Time to step up!

a cartoon of homer simpson with glowing green tubes in his hands


2️⃣ Hashtag Overload? Not Anymore.

🚫 Old Algorithm: Stuff your post with 30 hashtags and hope for the best.
New Algorithm: 5-7 niche-specific keywords are the sweet spot.

bart simpson is standing in front of a blackboard that says ' ill not encourage others to fly '


3️⃣ No More Copy-Paste Trends

🚫 Old Algorithm: Trending TikTok sounds? Insta loved that.
New Algorithm: Original, platform-native content wins! Get creative.

Lisa simpson episode 1 GIF - Find on GIFER


4️⃣ Small But Mighty Creators FTW!

🚫 Old Algorithm: Big accounts got all the love.
New Algorithm: Engagement matters—even for smaller creators.

Milhouse Van GIFs | Tenor


5️⃣ Timing? It’s Personal Now.

🚫 Old Algorithm: Post at “peak times” for maximum reach.
New Algorithm: It’s all about your audience’s individual habits.

Nervous The Simpsons GIF by AniDom - Find & Share on GIPHY


6️⃣ Long-Form is Making a Comeback

🚫 Old Algorithm: Short, snappy videos ruled the feed.
New Algorithm: Conversational, longer videos are getting the push.

Storytelling episode 7 season 12 GIF - Find on GIFER


7️⃣ No More Viral Chasing

🚫 Old Algorithm: Jump on trends, go viral, profit.
New Algorithm: Niche and original content > viral for the sake of viral.

GIF homer simpson simpsons homer - animated GIF on GIFER


8️⃣ More Than Just Likes & Views

🚫 Old Algorithm: Metrics = Likes & Views.
New Algorithm: Comments, shares, saves, and engagement rule.

feedback gif | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs | Tumgik


So, what does this mean for marketers, brands, and creators? It’s time to get strategic. Be authentic, focus on storytelling, and remember: Instagram wants us to work for it.

Got questions or thoughts? Click this (we promise the algorithm likes that 😉).

🚀 Need help navigating the ever-changing social media world? That’s what we do at Branding & Buzzing. Let’s chat!