Instagram has introduced a new feature that lets you turn horizontal or square photos into a vertical format for Stories. This update makes it easier to fit photos without cropping or losing parts of the image.
Have you ever posted a horizontal photo on your Instagram Story and wished it fit the vertical format perfectly? Instagram’s latest tool now solves this issue. It uses AI to expand the edges of your photo, filling the space seamlessly for a better view on Stories.
Earlier today, tech expert Sam Sheffer shared on X (formerly Twitter) that Instagram now has this photo-expansion tool. He mentioned how helpful it is, especially for users frustrated when the old “scale-up” option was removed.
How Does It Work?
Instagram’s app explains the feature like this:
- Expand Your Image: You can now stretch the sides of your photo to fill the Story space.
- How It Works: The AI looks at your photo and adds extra details to the sides, making it fit the vertical format.
In simple terms, the AI takes your original photo and automatically creates new content around the edges to make it look like it was always vertical.
How to Use the Feature
- Pick the horizontal or square photo you want to post to your Story.
- In the Story editor, find the ‘Expand’ option.
- Tap it, and the AI will expand your photo’s edges to fit vertically.
- Review the new image and post it if you’re happy with the result.
Keep in Mind
This AI tool isn’t always perfect. Sometimes the extended edges might not look exactly right, so you might need to double-check before sharing.
Also, based on Meta’s terms, they might use your content to improve their AI tools, so keep privacy in mind before using this feature.
Earlier this year, Instagram also introduced AI-powered background tools for Stories. These let users replace and generate new backgrounds, enhancing creativity. With this new expander tool, Instagram continues to integrate AI for a smoother user experience.
