Instagram’s Grid Layout Is No Longer Square

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Instagram’s new grid layout shifts from square to vertical rectangles, sparking mixed reactions among users.

Key takeaways

• Instagram’s profile grids now use vertical rectangle formats instead of squares.
• The change disrupts pre-aligned images and sparks widespread user backlash.
• The Head of Instagram defends the move, citing vertical content trends.
• For now, the web version still retains the classic square grid layout.

Instagram says goodbye to the square grid

Instagram’s square grid layout was synonymous with the platform’s visual identity for over a decade. However, in early 2025, the grid transitioned to a vertical rectangle format, dividing its user base. 

While some celebrate the modernized design, others lament the loss of the aesthetic symmetry that defined Instagram’s heritage.

Why the switch to vertical rectangles?

Instagram head Adam Mosseri says the decision is rooted in user behavior. “At this point, most of what’s uploaded—both photos and videos—are vertical in their orientation,” Mosseri explained in an announcement. 

He added, “Square photos are sort of the heritage of Instagram, but it is a bummer to overly crop them.”

Instagram changed their grid layout how we feeling?
Old: New: pic.twitter.com/mmFxc3Hj6R

— Barstool Wazzu (@BarstoolWazzu) January 17, 2025

The change aims to showcase content as intended without aggressive cropping, offering creators more freedom in their uploads.

User backlash: broken grids and aligned aesthetics

The new Instagram grid layout has not been universally welcomed. Users who meticulously curated their feeds to align with the square format now face “visual chaos,” with pre-aligned images disrupted. 

The new aspect ratio has also led to unintentional cropping, forcing creators to reconsider their content strategy.

While the rollout began on a trial basis in August 2024, its full implementation has left many users disgruntled.

Can you revert to the square grid?

Unfortunately, the mobile app prevents users from switching back to the classic square grid. However, desktop users can still view profiles in the original format.

Mosseri acknowledged the frustration but urged users to embrace the change: “Over the long run, be excited that more of your photos and videos are visible as intended in the profile.”

Final Thoughts on Instagram’s grid layout update

The new Instagram grid layout reflects a broader shift in how users consume and create content on Instagram. While the transition may have growing pains, it aligns with the platform’s goal of adapting to evolving user preferences. 

Whether it will ultimately enhance the user experience or alienate loyal followers remains to be seen.

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