Meta has confirmed that end-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram will be discontinued on May 8, 2026, marking a significant change to the platform’s messaging features.
The company shared the update through a notice on its website, informing users that the encryption feature will no longer be supported and advising those affected to download their chat data before the deadline.
“End-to-end encrypted messaging on Instagram will no longer be supported after 8 May 2026,” the notice states. “If you have chats that are affected by this change, you will see instructions on how you can download any media or messages that you may want to keep.”
Meta added that some users may need to update their Instagram app before they can download their encrypted conversations.
End-to-end encrypted messages and calls allow only the participants in a chat or call to see or listen to what is sent. Typically, even Meta would not be able to see the chat or listen to the call.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
According to reports citing a Meta spokesperson, the feature is being phased out due to low demand among Instagram users. While encryption provides additional privacy by ensuring only the sender and receiver can read messages, it appears that relatively few users have enabled the feature on the platform.
At the same time, regulatory pressure around the world has been increasing over encrypted messaging services. Governments and regulators have raised concerns that end-to-end encryption could make it harder to track illegal activity or prevent the spread of harmful content.
Despite the change on Instagram, Meta’s other messaging services will continue to offer encryption.
For example, WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption by default for all messages. Several competing platforms also provide strong privacy protections, including Signal and Telegram.
For Instagram users who rely on encrypted messaging for privacy, those apps may become alternatives once the feature disappears from the platform later this year.
Ogbonda Chivumnovu
