Now, instead of writing 'link in bio' in the posts, Instagram users can simply share the link via direct message. Yes, it does sound like a small update, but it makes a whole lot of difference.
Initially, users were allowed to use the link, only in the bio section. However, with the new update, users can now share website links with friends and preview them directly from the message thread. Users will also see links for phone numbers and addresses.
With this update, Instagram can prevent users from going to other messaging options.
Additionally, Instagram is also allowing users to send landscape/portrait photos and videos in direct messages without cropping them first.
The updates are rolling out presently only for iOS users and will arrive on Android soon. Links are supported on both platforms as of version 10.22.
Instagram Direct, a popular feature currently garners 375 million monthly active users.