How To Use Instagram Friend Map Feature In India: Check Features, Privacy Concerns Before Use

Instagram has recently rolled out its new Friend Map feature, and it is available in India too. While Meta launched it for users, hoping that they would benefit as it allows you to share your real-time location with friends. Much like Snapchat’s Snap Map, it shows where your friends are on a map, making it easier to plan meetups or discover popular hangout spots. However, it soon landed in the controversy of privacy.  Also Read: YouTube’s Next Big AI Upgrade: Lip-Syncing For Auto-Dubbed Videos Coming Soon

The feature is off by default, meaning you won’t appear on anyone’s map unless you turn it on. Meta says the goal is to help friends connect offline, explore local places together, and make meetups more spontaneous. Also Read: After Phone And iPad, Instagram Could Soon Be On Your TV: Here’s What We Know

How to Use Instagram Friend Map

If you want to try out the Instagram Friend Map, then here’s a quick guide for you: Also Read: Meta’s AI Can Now Dub And Translate Instagram And Facebook Reels In Hindi, Portuguese, And More

• First of all, open Instagram Messages and go to the Map section.
• Enable location sharing and decide who can see you – all friends, mutual friends, or a custom list.
• You can share in real time or turn it off anytime.

Benefits of the Instagram Map Feature, Privacy Concerns, More

It can be useful in several cases, such as meetups to see which friends are nearby, to discover trending spots, such as finding popular cafes, parks, or events. 

While Friend Map sounds convenient, it has raised big privacy questions. Experts warn that location misuse is possible. Stalking or harassment could become a risk if the wrong person sees your location.
Not only that, over time, frequent check-ins could reveal your routines and favourite places. Plus, Meta stores this location data without end-to-end encryption, making it a target for hackers.

However, Instagram says that the feature requires “double consent,” you only share your location with people you approve, and you can remove access anytime. Should you use it? If you decide to turn Friend Map on, share only with people you fully trust and avoid keeping it active all the time. For most, it might be best to use it occasionally for meetups and switch it off when not needed.