Instagram could roll out Snapchat-style video calls

Instagram could soon launch a one-to-one private video chat feature, and is working internally to implement the possibility to video call other users.

The Snapchat-style tool would be available to users who have already begun a private message thread with another user. Instagram currently only lets users begin public video chats during another user’s Live Story.

Technology blog WABetaInfo reported that the option to video call will only be available in pre-existing Instagram conversations. A leaked screenshot allegedly shows a new video call icon in the top-right corner of an Instagram Direct message.

The icon would enable video calling with a one-tap gesture. The feature will be immediately accessible once the user opens an active chat with another one: this means the user will be able to video call only if the other user has already accepted the request to chat, otherwise the icon won’t appear.

Tapping on that icon, the video call will start. Instagram hasn’t actually implement other UI elements for the video call. This feature is under development and will be enabled in next months and will be available both on iOS and Android platforms.

TechCrunch reported that Instagram declined to comment, saying it doesn’t respond to industry rumours and speculation.”We don’t comment on rumors and speculation,” said a spokesperson.

If the video chat feature goes ahead, it could allow users to more actively engage with the app – something parent company Facebook has made a ‘priority’ in its own network.

ALSO READ: Facebook adds Snapchat-like camera filters to Instagram

Facebook already offers the ability to video call with 17 billion video chats using the app in 2017.

Instagram has increased the use of videos on the platform with users able to send short video clips to one another. As well as the disappearing messages, users can also pop-up in ‘live’ stories, much like a chat-show.

Snapchat already allows its users to make audio and video calls alongside offering a dedicated chat option. It’s set to become even harder to secretly ‘stalk’ someone on Instagram.

Instagram has also started testing a feature that lets followers know if someone has taken a sneaky screenshot of their Story.

The Snapchat-inspired feature is expected to launch on the picture-sharing platform soon and is currently being trialled in Japan. It follows news that Instagram has launched a tool that lets your followers to know exactly how long you’ve spent on the app.

The app will warn users if their screenshot of a Story will result in a potentially embarrassing notification. Users will get one free screenshot, and then they will see a warning that any further pictures will send a notification.

Instagram already sends a notification when a screenshot is taken of a private message.