July 2025 Instagram Updates Every Brand Needs to Know
July 2025 Instagram Updates Every Brand Needs to Know
Instagram is rolling out several major changes starting July 10th, and these updates are being made to improve how content performs, how your brand shows up in search, and how users engage with your posts. Whether you’re a small business, creator, or service-based brand, these July 2025 Instagram updates deserve your full attention.
In this blog we will break down some of the biggest updates, what it means, and most importantly, how to adjust your strategy to stay ahead.
1. Posts Will Now Appear in Google Searches
What it means:
One of the biggest July 2025 Instagram updates is the integration of Instagram content into Google search results. All public content from professional accounts will automatically become searchable on Google or other search engines. This means your posts, captions, and profiles could now show up when users search relevant keywords online, not just in the app.
How to capitalize:
Be intentional with keywords in your captions
Add geo tags to attract local searches
Optimize your bio with strategic keywords and links
Use descriptive alt text on images
This update creates a huge opportunity to increase your reach beyond Instagram, especially for brands focused on SEO and discoverability.
2. Posts Now Appear Best in a 3:4 Ratio
What it means:
Another key change in the July 2025 Instagram updates is the adjustment to post sizes. Instagram posts now display best in a 3:4 ratio (rather than the previous 4:5 format).
How to capitalize:
Resize graphics, images, and videos (not reels) to 3:4 moving forward
Update social media templates to reflect this change
Preview your grid to ensure everything still looks polished and cohesive
This small shift can help your content look more professional and aligned with Instagram’s updated layout.
3. Quiet Posting Feature
What it means:
Among more creative July 2025 Instagram updates is the new quiet posting option. This feature allows you to post content to your grid without it appearing in your followers’ feed or notifications.
How to capitalize:
Test out new content styles without the pressure
Keep your grid visually fresh without overwhelming your audience
Organically build your aesthetic behind the scenes
Quiet posting is perfect for brands who want to experiment or refine their grid without publicly promoting every post.
4. Shares + Saves Now Prioritized
What it means:
In this round of July 2025 Instagram updates, Instagram has officially confirmed that it is prioritizing saves and shares over likes and comments when determining post reach. In short, posts that get saved or shared are more likely to be boosted by the algorithm.
How to capitalize:
Create content designed to be shared or saved (tips, guides, quotes, tutorials,etc.)
Encourage your audience to save posts for later
Incorporate calls to action like “Save this post for later!” or “Share this with a friend!”
This shift is a reminder to focus on value-driven content that your audience will want to revisit or pass along.
5. 2x Speed Option for Reels
What it means:
Another feature in the July 2025 Instagram updates is the introduction of 2x speed for Reels. Users can now hold down on the screen to speed up Reels, similar to the TikTok feature that people love.
Why it matters:
Fast playback isn’t just a trend, it’s how many users prefer to consume content. A recent study discovered that 83% of students watched lectures at a speed greater than 1x and they felt that it improved their learning experience.
How to capitalize:
Keep creating valuable, engaging video content
Don’t stress about speaking slowly, viewers can speed it up
Focus on delivering clear, high-impact messages quickly
This update allows you to stay authentic and efficient– letting users control how they watch, while you focus on delivering meaningful content.
Why These July Instagram Updates Matter
These July 2025 Instagram updates aren’t just cosmetic. They affect how your content is discovered, displayed, and engaged with across both Instagram and the internet.
By optimizing your content strategy around these changes, you can:
✔️Expand your visibility on both Instagram and Google
✔️Keep your feed polished and current
✔️Increase shares, saves, and overall engagement
✔️Stay ahead of competitors who aren’t adapting
Final Tip: Don’t wait for the algorithm to catch you off guard. Take action on these July 2025 Instagram updates now- and if you need help or feel overwhelmed, Well+Defined is here to guide you through every shift with clarity and confidence.
Need help adjusting your strategy? Connect with us! We specialize in cutting through the noise with intentional, effective marketing.