Instagram testing fullscreen layout for Stories: Here’s how it will look

A couple of days back, my Instagram feed started showing two rows of Instagram Stories. It disappeared soon after an update, but it seems like Instagram is testing a new avatar for Stories. There are now screenshots on social media that show a fullscreen layout of Instagram Stories, which quickly became one of the most used features on the platform.

The Facebook-owned company is reportedly testing a new layout for Instagram Stories. Right now, most users see only one row of stories, while some have reported seeing two rows. But now, Instagram is reportedly testing a feature called ‘See All Stories’. Tapping on it will expand the home page to feature stories entirely. You will see them in a grid format, instead of the current horizontal row on top of your feed.

You've heard of two rows of Instagram Stories...

Now prepare for "SEE ALL STORIES" pic.twitter.com/vs42wwHuh0

— Julian Gamboa (@JulianGumbo) June 26, 2020

The feature was caught on screenshot by a California-based social media manager Julian Gamboa last week, who posted it on Twitter. The screenshot is basically everything you need to know about the upcoming feature and how it will look.

Instagram had also previously confirmed to TechCrunch that it’s testing a complete overhaul of the design, starting with the two-row format with a limited number of users. However, Instagram did not disclose when it plans to go live with the new design.

By the looks of it, Instagram is clearly putting more emphasis on the Stories, which has seen massive engagement among its users. TechCrunch reports nearly half of Instagram user base, which is around 500 million users interact with Instagram Stories on a daily basis. Considering the popularity, we wouldn’t blame Instagram for putting the spotlight on the Stories feature. Instead, here's a guide to make the most of the feature.