Instagram has added the ability to include coloured backgrounds and selfies within direct messaging conversations.

Put a little style in the convo

Instagram’s new direct messaging features are available to Android users with iOS following soon. In the resulting popularity of Facebook Canvas, the addition of backgrounds comes as little shock.

The addition of visual backdrops is yet another step in the filter and style arms-race between Snapchat and Instagram.

Selfies are simply another form of stylising instant messaging conversations, which we’ve already seen with Messenger and its competition.

Coming soon to all users

At present, the new updates are only available to Android users with the version 14 update, but teams are already working to bring the features to iOS devices.

Adding quick backdrops and tapping the camera to integrate a quick selfie relies on efficient stylising in order to deliver the sort of flair users are looking for.

Where the style battle between Snapchat and Instagram will go next is anyone’s guess.

Are you excited for the new additions to Instagram messenger? Why or why not? Let us know your opinion in our comment section below.