According to a new report from The Next Web, Instagram is currently testing out some new features that have been noticed by some users. These new features may or may not see the light, but some of them are pretty useful.

Instagram is always testing out new features for feedback from users. And now, they’re doing something similar with a bunch of new features such as a Regram button, GIF search in Stories, Close friends list, Archive for Stories, and more.

Check out: Instagram tips and tricks using third-party apps

We’re going to briefly talk about all of these new features, and hope that at least a few of them are released soon. TNW has got a bunch of screenshots as well, so you can see these features in action!

New Instagram Features

Regram button

Some users have noticed a new Regram button(see screenshot on top) next to the usual array of buttons underneath a photo. This does what it’s supposed to. You will no longer need to download a photo and reshare it or use a third-party app. It looks like Instagram may finally be adding the option to share someone else’s post with ease.

GIF in Stories

It looks like Instagram is also planning on adding GIF to its Stories. You can already add stickers and emojis and text, but soon you may be able to search for GIFs and add them as well. It’s not a really good implementation though, according to the report, but it can be made better.

Archive for Stories

Yes, this is something we’ve all been waiting for too. The ability to save your stories in an archive within Instagram. And it looks like Instagram is testing out this feature and it could be available for the public soon.

Check out: Instagram tips and tricks for beginners

Closest Friends list

You can add your closest friends to a new list and share content with them or send them DMs. The friends who are added to the list will not be notified when they’re added, but will get notifications for content shared.

WhatsApp Share button for iOS

It looks like iOS users will also be able to share photos from Instagram directly to WhatsApp. Also, iOS is getting an Instagram Beta app so users can test out all these new features, if they’re lucky though. Android has already had the beta app for a while now, but these new features are still being tested out among a very small group of users.

Other features

Apart from all the major changes that might make it to an Instagram app near you, there are several other minor features as well. There’s a new option to follow a hashtag to keep yourself updated with the latest news from that tag. A pinned thread option is available in direct messages, emoji shortcuts for some words/phrases, and a few more.

We are not sure if or when Instagram would release these new features for the public, but it is nice to see that there’s still a lot to expect from the photo sharing app. Which one of these features do you want the most? Let us know in the comments.