Beyond the public posts that make Instagram what it is, there is also a private messaging feature called Direct Messages or DMs. This allows users to communicate privately, passing messages directly between themselves (just like the name implies).
This feature can also be used to create groups with friends. A unified platform where a group of friends can interact with each other privately. These groups can be a lot of fun, but when conversations get juicy, the deluge of messages can get a little hard to track.
By replying to specific messages, Instagram lets you give a direct response on a group or direct DM, ensuring that your replies don’t lose context.
In this article, we’ll show you how to reply to a specific Instagram message.
How to respond to messages on Instagram on Android and iOS
On the official Instagram apps for Android and iOS, the methods of replying to specific messages are similar, so we’ll take them at once.
- Open your Instagram app on your device (both iOS and Android), then tap the messages icon on the top right corner of your screen. For Android, this is the ‘Instagram Direct’ icon, while on iOS, it is the ‘paper airplane’ icon. This will open up the messages section.
- Open the individual conversation screen by tapping on the person who sent the message.
- Once on the conversation screen, there are two methods you can use to reply to a message.
Method 1
Simply swipe right on the message you want to reply to till you see a reply button and let go. If you’re replying to your own message, swipe left.
Method 2
Press and hold the message then tap the reply button.
- Now, you’ll see the original message appear on top of the text box. Simply type in your response in the box and click ‘send.’
- Your reply would appear on the chat with the original message at the top. This would show everyone the exact message the reply is meant for.
How to respond to Instagram messages on Windows PC
If you’re using Instagram on a Windows PC through the desktop app or Web, then the steps would be slightly different.
- Open the Instagram app on Windows or go to Instagram.com on your browser.
- Select the messages icon from the menu on the left.
- Click on the conversation you want to reply to from the list.
- Hover your mouse on the message you wish to reply to and a popup menu will appear.
- Click on the reply icon.
- Type in your message and click send.
- Now your reply would appear with the original message above it, just like on the other platforms.
Why can’t I reply to a specific message on Instagram?
If you’ve followed our steps for your app and didn’t find the option to reply to a specific message, then you should try updating your app. Many features on Instagram are only available on the latest versions of the app, so it’s best to stay updated.
