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Photo Collage of the Instagram Circles Extension shown through phone prototypes.

Phone prototype of Instagram Circles, showing an image of a social orbit and a short explanation of the extension.

3 phone prototypes of the consumption patterns from Instagram Circles.

4 screen prototypes of the connection opportunity prompts from Instagram Circles

Instagram Circles

Instagram Circles reimagines Instagram as a healthier social space, transforming comparison culture into opportunities for reflection and genuine connection. Developed through research on the quarter-life crisis, it supports young adults as they navigate shifting friendships and social uncertainty. The update enables users to create personalised Social Circles (casual friends, influencers etc) and filter their feed to match their needs. Visual insights reveal how time and attention are distributed across these circles, while subtle prompts encourage meaningful reconnection. By embedding wellbeing within Instagram, Circles promotes self-awareness and connection, giving users the agency to reshape their online space during the quarter-life transition.