Instagram aims to simplify the process of sharing personal content with a specific circle of friends without the need for a separate account
In a bid to enhance user privacy and encourage more genuine connections, Instagram is contemplating the introduction of a novel feature called “Flipside.” This feature would allow users to create a private section within their profiles, where they can share more authentic and personal photos exclusively with a selected group of friends. Essentially, Instagram is looking to formalize the concept of “finstas,” the informal term for secondary Instagram accounts where users post real-life snapshots, in contrast to the carefully curated content on their public profiles.
The term “finsta” gained prominence some years ago, even catching the attention of U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, who questioned Instagram’s commitment to ending finstas. The concern was that younger users, particularly teens, were establishing private accounts beyond their parents’ knowledge, and Instagram was benefitting from this behavior.
With the potential introduction of “Flipside,” Instagram aims to simplify the process of sharing personal content with a specific circle of friends without the need for a separate account. This feature could also operate outside the confines of Instagram’s parental controls, providing users with more flexibility.
Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi discovered the feature in development, originally named “Your Space.” Screenshots from the Instagram app indicate that “Flipside” refers to “a new space just for you and your friends,” where only selected individuals can view the content. Navigating to a user’s “Flipside” involves swiping down on their profile, flipping over to the private section.
Instagram confirmed that “Flipside” is currently an internal prototype and has not entered public testing.
This development follows Instagram’s efforts to expand features for targeting content exclusively to close friends. The “Close Friends” feature, initially designed for private stories, was integrated into the main feed in November. If “Flipside” becomes a reality, these private posts could potentially reside in a dedicated section of the user’s profile, separate from the main feed.
Beyond the convenience of avoiding the creation of alternate accounts, “Flipside” could pose a challenge to social apps tailored for close friends, such as BeReal. Additionally, it might attract users who previously relied on platforms like X’s Close Friends-like Circles feature, which recently ceased operations.
While Instagram did not provide further details on the development of “Flipside,” Paluzzi uncovered features like custom profile pictures, names, and bios for the private section. Users would also have control over which friends can access their “Flipside,” with an option for a fresh start by removing everyone. Notably, content shared on the “Flipside” would still be subject to Instagram’s community guidelines.
Instagram has not confirmed a public launch date for “Flipside,” as internal prototypes often remain in the development phase. Nevertheless, if implemented, this feature could significantly enrich the Instagram experience, capitalizing on how users currently engage with the platform and potentially driving increased user engagement as friends explore each other’s “Flipside.”
