Instagram has unveiled a new feature designed just for teenagers, allowing users under 18 to choose from six fresh app icons. These icons have names like “chrome,” “cosmic,” and “slime.” The update aims to make the app more expressive and fun while keeping young users engaged. It’s part of a wider focus on creativity, individuality, and responsible online experiences.
How Teens Can Access Custom Icons
To try these new icons, teen users tap the Instagram logo at the top of their home feed and select their favorite design. Each icon carries a unique color theme and artistic touch, reflecting Instagram’s youthful and modern vibe. The feature was created in partnership with illustrator Doncarrrlos, who worked with the design team to craft visuals that feel vibrant, cool, and appealing to younger users.
Personalization and Platform Relevance
Instagram’s decision to offer icon customization reflects a growing trend among social media platforms to stay relevant to younger audiences. Similar to Snapchat’s premium features, Meta’s new move combines visual appeal with user control. It allows teens to express themselves while staying within safe digital boundaries. This shift represents Meta’s effort to make Instagram both creative and age-sensitive in a competitive social space.
Also Read: Meta to Shut Down Messenger Desktop Apps for Mac and Windows
The Safety Overhaul Behind the Update
Beyond style, this feature is part of a larger safety initiative aimed at teen well-being. Instagram is now aligning teen experiences with PG-13 style content rules. This means that users under 18 will automatically have restricted access to mature or graphic material. The goal is to create a space that feels welcoming, protective, and free from harmful or inappropriate content for younger audiences.
Strengthened Privacy for Teen Accounts
Every teen account will now be automatically set to private, ensuring that strangers can’t follow, message, or tag without permission. Instagram has also enhanced its search filters to block unsafe terms like “alcohol” or “violence,” even if misspelled. These protective steps ensure a safer environment, where young users can focus on creativity and connection without fear of exposure to adult or harmful material.
Parental Oversight and Control
Parents will also gain more say in how their teens use Instagram. A new “Limited Content” setting allows stricter filtering for families who prefer tighter control. These updates make it easier for parents to supervise online behavior, fostering trust and transparency. Meta plans to roll out these safety measures first in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada before expanding worldwide next year.
Concerns and Criticism
While the update has earned praise, critics say it may not go far enough. Some studies suggest Instagram still recommends mature or age-inappropriate content to teens despite restrictions. Experts also argue that customization options could encourage longer screen time rather than promoting healthier habits. The concern remains that such updates beautify the platform without tackling deeper mental health or algorithm-related issues.
Meta’s Broader Teen Strategy
Instagram’s teen-centered updates reflect Meta’s broader push to appear proactive amid rising pressure from regulators. Laws like the Kids Online Safety Act in the U.S. have pushed platforms to adopt clearer safety rules. For Instagram, these changes highlight a future where personalization meets protection. By blending fun with responsibility, Meta hopes to rebuild trust and keep its platform meaningful for younger generations.
