Instagram, a platform known for its visually pleasing and highly engaging content, has introduced a groundbreaking change in 2025: a shift from the traditional square grid layout to a more versatile rectangular format. This update has sparked excitement across creators and businesses, offering new opportunities to enhance their content strategies. Here’s everything you need to know about this significant redesign.
What is Instagram’s new 4:5 Grid?
The 4:5 aspect ratio offers a taller, more cinematic look compared to the classic square format. This change presents both challenges and opportunities for Instagram feed design. While it might disrupt your carefully curated grid, it also allows for more creative expression and storytelling through visuals. While the roll-out hasn’t happened across every account, it’s important to begin adapting the way you post to prepare for the shift. If you don’t act now, you risk your curated 1:1 grid being skewed and cropped.
Why Did Instagram Make This Change?
This move aligns with Instagram’s goal of staying ahead in the competitive social media space. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube have prioritized vertical content, and this update ensures Instagram remains relevant and user-friendly. By adopting the rectangular grid, Instagram promotes creativity and simplifies content sharing, especially for professional creators and brands.
What dimensions should I post in?
We recommend uploading posts and reel covers with the following dimensions: 1080 x 1350. However, it’s important to try to keep the most important information in your posts (or the focus of your image) within the confines of 1080 x 1080, because the roll-out has not happened across all accounts yet. For example, if you post an image consisting mainly of text, ensure the text fits within 1080 x 1080, but ensure the whole post is 1080 x 1350. You can do this by simply adding a border to fill the rest of the space!
How This Update Impacts Creators and Businesses?
The rectangular grid layout isn’t just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a powerful tool for improving user engagement and storytelling. Here’s how it can transform your content strategy:
- Flexible Content Formats: Share visuals and videos in their full aspect ratios without compromising quality or composition.
- Stronger Brand Aesthetic: Use the additional space to create stunning and cohesive profile grids.
- Optimized Ad Placements: With the larger format, ads can become more impactful and visually appealing.
- Legacy Content Considerations: Pre-existing square posts might feel out of sync with the new layout, requiring adjustments for profile uniformity.
Tips to Adapt to the New Layout
To fully utilize the rectangular grid’s potential, follow these tips:
- Create Versatile Content: Focus on designs that work in portrait and landscape orientations.
- Update Your Profile Strategy: Strategically plan your grid layout for a visually appealing profile.
- Experiment Boldly: Use the additional space to test creative ideas like panoramic posts and cinematic visuals.
- Monitor Engagement Trends: Analyze how your audience reacts to the new layout and refine your strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
The introduction of Instagram’s rectangular grid layout marks a pivotal moment in the platform’s evolution. It offers creators and businesses the freedom to push creative boundaries and connect with audiences more effectively. While the change may require some initial adjustments, the long-term benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Are you excited about Instagram’s latest update? Start adapting your content today and make 2025 the year your profile stands out like never before!