Instagram rolls out Snapchat-like feature to help users add friends

Instagram has launched a new feature, similar to one that rival Snapchat already offers it users, which will let people follow each other more easily on the app.

Similar to Snapchat’s feature ‘Snapcodes’, Instagram has introduced ‘Nametag’ through which users can add friends easily in person by just pointing the camera at a code. In order to try the new feature, users would have to go to their profile and tap the menu bar at the top, and then select ‘Nametag’.

Users can create their customized nametag with the help of selfies, emojis and colors. The other user would just have to launch the camera and point it down on the screen with the tag in view. After scanning the tag, the soon-to-be follower will receive options of either to follow right away or view the profile.

Instagram informed that the 'nametags' can be shared with other people via text messages or through other social media platforms such as WhatsApp or Facebook in order to gain more followers. The feature has already rolled out and is available on both Android and iOS.

Moreover, the social media platform is also testing a ‘School Communities’ feature that will encourage users to join a college or university group in order to show off their academic history, such as the school itself, class year, and activities. Users will also have the choice to go to a directory of people who have added their school affiliations and connect with them.

However, the school feature for now is limited to testing in some of the US universities, but as per Instagram, it should reach more institutions in ‘coming weeks’. As per Instagram, both nametag and school communities are here to make connecting with people easier.