Instagram Direct could mark a significant shift in Instagram’s core focus, expanding itself into what could be a full on communications service.

Video: its hot right now

Inline with top competitors like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, a recent Instagram leak suggests the platform may be ready to enable users to make video calls.

The central feed of Instagram has always been its primary pull, even over messaging.

However, anunreleased version of the Instagram app was spotted by WABetaInfo, where a new video feature was spotted.

What it’s all about

The video calling feature will allow users to video chat with other members that they’ve already messaged with previously.

The button will appear along chat within the navigation bar, though little else is known officially about the release.

Last December, Instagram admitted that research has shown social media has a positive effect when engaging with family and friends but is a negative when scrolling through posts passively.

Adding more direct communication will bring a bit more intimacy to the service and could be what users are after.

Would you be inclined to use your Instagram for video calling? We want to know what you think, give us your thoughts in the comment section.