Instagram’s 2025 Grid Update

Everything You Need to Know to Keep Your Content Ahead

Instagram is shaking things up yet again! If you’re a small business owner, content creator, or social media manager, staying on top of these updates is crucial to keeping your brand relevant. The latest change?

Instagram is shifting from its classic square grid to a taller grid format. This update comes with new sizing requirements that could completely change how your content appears—and it’s time to adapt.

Here’s what you need to know about the new grid format and how to make the most of these changes.

What has changed

Instagram's grid has traditionally been a 1:1 square format, with posts measuring 1080 x 1080 pixels. But as the platform has evolved, so has its layout. The new grid now displays previews in a higher 3:4 ratio (1015 x 1350 pixels). While this shift gives your profile a fresh, modern look, it also requires a new approach to content creation.

The size of your feed post can vary: 1080x1080 pixels (1:1 ratio) or 1080x1350 pixels (4:5 ratio) are the most popular and recommended sizes. But the preview will have a 3:4 ratio (1015 x 1350 pixels) for all posts and videos.

Why This Matters

The change isn’t just aesthetic—it’s strategic. Taller posts take up more screen real estate, making them more engaging and harder to ignore.

Here’s why you need to adapt quickly:
➡️ Boost Visibility: Larger posts naturally grab attention, leading to higher engagement.
➡️ Modernize Your Feed: Older square posts could start to look outdated alongside taller, portrait-style content.
➡️ Enhance Storytelling: With extra vertical space, you can get more creative with carousels, infographics, and product showcases.

Tips for new post design

1. Choose posts and carousels of the same size to optimize content production. We recommend favoring a 4:5 ratio (1080x1350 px).
🚀Use our safe zone tip, place content inside the post so that it doesn't get cut off in the preview.

2. Optimize grids: Keep important elements within a central square so that your content looks good in the feed and in an individual post.
3. Leave indents: Add extra space around the edges of your design to avoid clipping in a taller grid.
4. Focus on Carousel and Roller Covers: The first slide or cover image is the only part visible in the grid. Format it for maximum effect.
5. Don't delete old posts: There is no need to delete old posts. You can go into the post settings and fix the preview, there are three display options: cropping the post to 3:4, original post size on white background, original post size on black background.

If some posts still look bad even after adjusting the previews, it is better to archive them rather than delete them.

Sizing Guide for Instagram Content in 2025

To keep your posts looking sharp across all formats, use this cheat sheet:
➡️ Feed Posts & Carousels: 1080 x 1350 px (4:5 ratio) or 1080 x 1080 px (1:1 ratio)
➡️ Grid Preview for main feed: 1015 x 1350 px (3:4 ratio, not uploadable)
➡️ Stories, Reels, and Live Videos: 1080 x 1920 px (9:16 ratio)

Important Tip: Center key elements (like text and focal points) within the square 1:1 zone. This ensures your content appears balanced and readable.

Action Plan for Staying Ahead

Adapting quickly is key to staying competitive on Instagram. Here’s how to get started:
1. Clean up old posts. Fix previews or archive posts that don't crop well for the new feed.
2. Update Your Content Strategy: Transition to creating posts in the 1080 x 1350 px (4:5) format.
3. Use High-Quality Visuals: Make the most of the extra space with eye-catching designs and clear storytelling.
4. Experiment With New Formats: Test out taller carousels, infographics, and Reels that fully utilize the new layout.
5. Leverage Canva Templates: Use pre-sized templates to simplify your workflow and ensure your content aligns with Instagram’s latest requirements.

Final Thoughts

Instagram’s 2025 grid update is an exciting opportunity to refresh your content and connect with your audience in new ways. By embracing these changes, you’ll ensure your feed stays modern, engaging, and optimized for the evolving platform.

If the thought of reworking your Instagram feed feels overwhelming, we’re here to help! Whether you need a fresh new layout, optimized templates, or a complete feed makeover, our team can guide you through the process. Simply fill out this form to get started, and let’s make your Instagram profile stand out in 2025!

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