In Instagram’s latest update, the platform has made a major change to the profile grid layout by introducing the 4:5 dimension, redefining how users showcase their content. The change arrives with the intention to offer a more streamlined, aesthetically pleasing experience for creators and followers alike.
Instagram January 2025 Update: What’s new?
Instagram’s January 2025 update saw profile grids updated from the classic square 1:1 format to a 4:5 dimension – 1080 px by 1350 px. The grid layout remains intact but adapts dynamically to accommodate the taller posts, allowing for a seamless representation of creative works.
The 4:5 aspect ratio is not new to Instagram – it has been a staple for portrait photos and videos in the main feed since 2018. This format, slightly taller than the traditional square, has been popular among users for its ability to showcase more detail without taking up excessive screen space.
The 4:5 ratio strikes a balance between offering a larger canvas for content creators and maintaining an optimal browsing experience for viewers. With smartphones trending towards taller screens, this move aligns Instagram with modern device usage patterns.
Users will have the option to preview their feed before making posts live, ensuring the overall aesthetic of their grid remains intact. This is particularly beneficial for influencers, brands, and businesses that rely heavily on their Instagram profiles to establish visual identity.
What are the benefits?
For content creators and brands alike, the switch to a 4:5 format offers the opportunity to optimise future content for this new content dimension. Primarily, it allows for more storytelling space without compromising visibility. Vertical photos and videos, already a mainstay of Instagram’s Reels and Stories, will now feel more natural in the profile grid, reducing the need for cropping or extensive editing.
For brands, product images, promotional videos, and advertisements can now occupy more vertical space, drawing greater attention to key details. With a larger display area, calls-to-action and branding elements are easier to incorporate without overwhelming the viewer.
Challenges: What to be aware of
One of the major concerns is the potential disruption to carefully curated profile grids. Taller 4:5 posts may dominate visually when placed alongside older square content, potentially throwing off the symmetry and flow of a user’s grid.
Creators and brands that rely on highly stylised grids may need to rethink their content strategy to maintain a cohesive aesthetic. Additionally, older posts could appear less impactful or outdated in comparison to the newer format, leading some users to revisit and edit past content for consistency.
Another challenge lies in adapting workflows and tools. Many creators and brands have relied on design templates and editing apps optimised for the square format, and switching to 4:5 may require new resources or approaches.
There’s also a risk of overwhelming followers with overly busy or detailed 4:5 posts, especially when displayed within the profile grid. Creators will need to strike a balance between leveraging the extra vertical space and ensuring their content remains visually appealing at a glance.
How should you respond to this update?
Instagram’s CEO has already confirmed the update is here to stay, so you need to adapt quickly to this update. With the right approach, it can be a seamless and exciting transition. Here’s a checklist to help you respond effectively:
Evaluate your current profile feed
- Review your existing grid and identify any posts that may look inconsistent with the new 4:5 format.
- Decide whether to refresh or archive older content to maintain a cohesive visual style.
Adjust your content strategy
- Plan new posts with the 4:5 ratio in mind to optimise visual impact.
- Ensure important details are centred and don’t get cropped in previews.
Test the updates
- Use Instagram’s preview tools to see how your grid will look before posting.
- Experiment with mixing 4:5 and square formats to find a balance that works for your aesthetic.
Update your design templates
- Replace outdated square-based templates with ones optimised for 4:5.
- Check if your editing software offers cropping guides or export settings for the new format.
Embrace the extra space
- Use the taller frame to highlight key elements, such as product details or storytelling visuals.
- Experiment with new creative approaches
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