Instagram has done it again. Just when we thought we had mastered the art of the perfect grid, the platform rolled out a surprise update reshaping profiles. You’re not alone if your feed suddenly looks stretched, cropped, or off.
The new Instagram grid update is here, sparking excitement and frustration. Let’s examine what’s changed, why it matters, and how to adapt your content for this vertical-first era.
Let’s go!
What’s New in the 2025 Instagram Grid Update?
For years, Instagram’s 1:1 square grid (1080 x 1080 pixels) was the gold standard. It gave profiles a clean, symmetrical look, and creators obsessed over crafting cohesive 3×3 grids. However, as of early 2025, Instagram is prioritizing vertical content with a taller 3:4 grid preview—a move that aligns with its push for Reels and Stories.
Here’s the new Instagram grid size:
Carousel Posts
- Image size – 1080 x 1350 px (4:5)
- Grid view – 1012 x 1350 px (3:4)
Reels
- Image size: 1080 x 1920 px (9:16)
- Grid preview: 1080 x 1440 px (3:4)
Stories
- Image size: 1080 x 1920 px (9:16)
- Safe area: 1080 x 1610 px
This update makes posts appear taller in grid view, which can distort older square content. Some users (especially on iOS) have already seen the update, while others still use the classic grid.
But Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, confirmed that this is no test—it’s the company’s future.
Why Did Instagram Change the Grid?
This isn’t just a design whim. Instagram’s new grid size 2025 reflects how people use the app today. Vertical content dominates: Reels comprise over 20% of the time spent on Instagram, and Stories see millions of daily viewers.
By adopting taller previews, Instagram is:
- Competing with TikTok: The 9:16 format thrives on TikTok, and Instagram wants Reels to feel just as immersive.
- Simplifying Content Creation: No more juggling square vs. vertical—everything is optimized for scrolling.
- Prioritizing Mobile Users: 98% of Instagram users access the app on phones, where vertical content feels natural.
As Mosseri said, “Rectangles do a better job showing off vertical photos and videos.” But he also acknowledged the pain for creators: “We’re improving the ability to customize thumbnails to get back to a grid you’re happy with.”
How to Fix Your Existing Posts for the New Grid
If your old posts look stretched or cropped, don’t panic. Here’s how to adapt:
1. Edit Preview Tab On Instagram
- Click the three dots on any post
- Adjust Preview
- Choose Fit and pick black/white borders
- Drag the image to reposition it in the frame
- Hit Done
2. Archive Instead of Delete
Avoid nuking your grid—archive outdated posts to preserve engagement metrics and revisit them later.
3. Resize Old Content
Tools like Instagram grid maker apps (e.g., Canva, Planoly) can reformat square posts to 3:4 ratios. Add subtle borders or zoom in on key elements.
Best Practices to Follow for the New Instagram Grid
Here are some of the best practices for the new Instagram grid:
1. Center Key Elements
With the new taller previews, the edges of square posts get cropped. This means logos, vital text, or focal points near the edges may get cut out when viewed in the grid.
To avoid this, ensure all the essential elements are centered and visible. Use guides or overlays in your editing software to help center your design visually.
2. Prioritize Vertical Content
Use 4:5 or 9:16 ratios for posts and Reels. They look sharp on the grid and the full screen. Reels, which use the 9:16 ratio, appear natively on both the grid and explore pages, so optimizing for tall content doubles your chances of visibility.
When shooting or editing, frame your images or videos with vertical dimensions in mind to maximize their impact.
3. Keep Extra Space to Avoid Unintended Cropping
Designing with a “safe zone” prevents your content from being accidentally cropped or key details from being lost. Imagine a smaller rectangle centered within your frame, leaving enough margin on all sides to protect your visuals.
This means keeping all critical information (like captions, hashtags, or headlines) well inside this inner rectangle for designers or photographers.
4. Stay Consistent with Branding
Stick to two to three fonts, filters, and color palettes. Even if the grid shape changes, a cohesive feed still matters. Consistency helps your audience instantly recognize your content in their feed, building trust and familiarity.
Whether using bold colors, muted tones, or a monochromatic palette, ensure your branding is unified across every post.
Moreover, you can also create branding posts using SocialBu’s AI social media post generator, which helps you create high-quality social media posts in minutes.
5. Use Grid Planning Tools
Apps like Snapseed let you map out how your posts will look on the grid before publishing. These tools allow you to experiment with spacing, colors, and layouts, ensuring your feed stays aesthetic and consistent.
Pay attention to how your existing and future posts align and complement one another.
Wrap Up
Social media changes are unpredictable and inevitable, and Instagram’s new grid update proves this. While the shift to 3:4 previews disrupts old aesthetics, it also offers an opportunity to embrace trends and rethink creativity.
So, will you resist the taller grid or lean into it? Either way, adaptability is key. As Mosseri hinted, more customization tools are coming. Until then, center your content, think vertically, and keep that feed scroll-stopping.
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FAQs
Did Instagram Change its Grid?
Yes – as of 2023, Instagram prioritizes taller previews (3:4 aspect ratio) for posts. Square content now gets cropped in grid view, favoring vertical formats like Reels (9:16) and 4:5 posts.
What is the New Instagram Grid Feature?
Instagram’s grid features include:
- Taller previews: Posts default to 3:4, cropping square images in the grid.
- Vertical-first focus: 4:5 and 9:16 content (Reels) dominates feeds for visibility.
Why did my Instagram Grid Change?
Instagram’s algorithm now emphasizes Reels and vertical posts, altering how grids display mixed content.
How do I change my Instagram Post Grid?
- Use apps like Instagram grid tools to design layouts.
- Stick to 4:5 or 9:16 ratios;
- Leave “safe zones” to avoid cropping.
What is a 9-Grid Instagram?
A curated 3×3 grid layout is popular for aesthetic feeds. It is not new; users manually create theme posts to fit this grid.
What is the New Mode of Instagram?
Focus on Reels and full-screen vertical content, with algorithms favoring video and immersive formats.
How do you Reset the Grid on Instagram?
To reset your Instagram grid, you can archive old posts or use grid-planning apps to reorganize your feed.
