Facebook merges Messenger with Instagram Direct

NEW YORK: Facebook is giving users the option to merge their Messenger inbox with Instagram Direct, which grants the ability to send messages across platforms.

Users are seeing a pop-up when opening the Instagram app informing them about this update.

“There’s a New Way to Message on Instagram,” the pop-up reads. The notice goes on to emphasize the following benefits of merging the two chat platforms:

New colorful look for your chats

React with any emoji

Swipe to reply to messages

Chat with friends who use Facebook

Before you choose to update, be aware that it will change the entire look and feel of your Instagram direct message inbox. Instagram Direct will suddenly look more like Facebook Messenger. Even the icon at the top right of the screen will be replaced with the Messenger icon.

Users who are on board with merging the two inboxes can go ahead and select ‘Update.’