Instagram further tightens rules for reposted content
Instagram has expanded its restrictions on reposted content, limiting recommendation reach for accounts that mainly share unoriginal posts.
Instagram has announced new changes to how content is recommended across the app, extending its existing policies around reposted material. The update means accounts that regularly share content created by others will no longer be eligible for recommendations on Instagram’s discovery surfaces.
As TechCrunch reports, the changes apply specifically to photo posts and carousel posts, following earlier restrictions introduced for reposted Reels content. Instagram says the aim is to improve visibility for creators producing original work, while reducing repeated uploads of the same posts across the platform.
In a statement, Instagram said, “Accounts that primarily post unoriginal content in photos or carousel posts, in addition to reels, will no longer be shown in places where we recommend content.”
The policy targets content aggregators that mainly repost material without adding meaningful changes or context. While users who already follow these accounts will still see their posts, the content will no longer appear as widely in recommendations such as Explore, Discover, and suggested feeds.
Instagram defines original content as work someone has created themselves or content that reflects a creator’s own perspective. The platform also clarified that edited or remixed content can still qualify as original if enough creative input has been added.
In its official announcement, Instagram explained, “When meme creators add humor, social commentary, cultural references, or a relatable take by incorporating elements such as unique text, creative edits, and voiceover on a photo or video, they’re producing something original.” The company added, “The best meme creators take third-party content and make it unmistakably theirs by layering in a perspective, joke, or context that wasn’t there before.”
However, Instagram says simple edits will not be enough to avoid restrictions. Adding watermarks, changing playback speed, or reposting screenshots of another user’s content with visible credit will still be considered unoriginal content under the updated guidelines. Music Ally also highlighted that Instagram is encouraging users to make use of collaboration tools, reposting features, and proper content-sharing options available within the app.
The update continues Instagram’s wider focus on originality, something the platform has discussed for several years. Similar efforts were introduced for Reels last year, and Meta has also been making broader changes to reduce the reach of recycled posts across its platforms.