Instagram is introducing a new “profile card” feature that is essentially a digital business card for your profile. The official launch comes months after the Meta-owned social network was spotted testing the feature with select creators.
The new double-sided profile card is designed to make it easier for users to share their Instagram account with others. No need to send your handle to anyone, just share your card. Instagram sees this feature as an easier way to connect with new people and make friends.
On one side are shareable “cards” that pull information from your Instagram profile, such as your bio, profile photo, and any links or music in your profile. On the other side, there is a QR code that links to your profile. To better represent yourself, you can customize the background of your profile card with an image of your choice.
Rolling out to all users globally, the feature is aimed at people looking to promote themselves and expand their connections. You can share your profile card on other platforms to encourage people to check out your account and follow you.
Meta told TechCrunch via email that it is launching the feature in response to more Gen Z users using Instagram as a kind of resume. The company pointed to a recent survey that found more than half of Gen Z wanted to be an influencer. That’s why social networks are exploring ways to help Gen Z introduce themselves to others.
Instagram says users can share their profile cards with potential collaborators or brands in a quick and easy way. The company also believes that this feature can be used to make new friends who share similar interests by sharing profile cards in Instagram groups or online events.
Instagram has been allowing users to share their accounts via QR codes since 2018, but the new profile card offers a more detailed way to do this. Instead of showing a simple QR code, you can show others a little bit about your interests and content, which can bring in more connections than a standard QR code.
