Although the feature has been around for a couple of years, some people are only just learning about it. Debuted in the US, UK users of Instagram want to know what vanish mode is, if it can be used in the UK and how to enable it.
First introduced on Facebook Messenger, vanish mode has now been implemented on Instagram. If you can’t keep up with all the new features on the app, we can’t blame you. Though this one is a couple of years old, it hasn’t been as widely distributed as others. If you’re none the wise, you’re not alone and we can help you out. Here’s what the feature is and how to enable vanish mode.
What Is Vanish Mode On Instagram?
Vanish mode allows people to send messages that disappear as soon as they’re read. It’s a little bit like Snapchat, or Instagram stories, but even less permanent.
The feature was introduced first on Facebook Messenger and means users can send gifs, longer messages and pictures that will be erased from the chat as soon as the other person has seen them.
On both Facebook and Instagram, vanish mode can only be used on two-way chats (between one person and another), so isn’t available for any group chats. Users are also notified if a screenshot is taken of a message when vanish mode is on and any ‘vanished’ messages can still be used in reports.
How To Enable Vanish Mode
If you’re in a country where it’s available, you can turn it on by simply swiping up in your Facebook on Instagram chat. You then do the same thing to turn it off again. When you first turn vanish mode on, a little pop-up will appear that will explain the key features.
And whilst the feature has its perks, one thing many people have pointed out is that it just makes cheating and sending unsolicited pictures a lot easier.
Can You Use Instagram Vanish Mode In The UK?
Looking at Instagram Help Centre, vanish mode is not yet available in the UK.
When going to learn about the feature from Instagram, the website tells you that it is not available on computers. It then prompts you to pick either iPhone or Android assistance. Once you’ve selected which kind of phone you have, Instagram will tell you:
“vanish mode is not currently available in your area.”
So, although the feature was rolled out in 2020, UK users don’t have access to it yet.
However, looking at Messenger News, Meta says that vanish mode is being rolled out to other countries after being debuted in the US. This was from over 2 years ago, so hopefully it won’t be long until it reaches the UK and other countries.]
Just remember when it does become available to use it for the right reasons. Use vanish mode to send embarrassing pictures or memes and not as a tool for cheating, you’re better than that!