Instagram released an unexpected customization option on Wednesday, giving users a set of new icons to use on their phone home screens and similar devices. But there’s a catch. Altering the appearance of the classic Instagram app icon is only available to users holding Teen Accounts, not adult users.
Don’t miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add as a preferred Google source.
A representative for Meta, Instagram’s parent company, didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
Teens on Instagram now have access to six new versions of the classic Instagram camera icon. Teens can access them by tapping the Instagram logo on their home feed and looking for the setting to change icons. Options include neon, clear glass, fire, flowers, green slime and chrome.
Instagram users relayed their confusion on social media. Many wondered why the icons weren’t rolling out to adults as well. It’s possible Instagram is wary of compromising the brand identify of the familiar icon by letting too many users change it.
This latest release follows a year of updates to Instagram, many of which involve AI or new, often-requested features. These include personalized ads based on AI and parental controls to block access to chatbots.
