Instagram continues to evolve with features that help entrepreneurs and local brands grow their presence, build community, and drive sales. For Canadian small businesses, this means better tools to reach new customers and create engaging content without a huge marketing budget.
From AI-enhanced Reels editing to easier messaging and verified business perks, these updates make it easier than ever to show up professionally online—even if you’re running your business solo or part-time.
Whether you’re a boutique owner in Toronto, a wellness studio in Calgary, or an artist in Halifax, staying current with Instagram’s newest tools can give you a competitive edge.
Why Small Businesses in Canada Should Care
- Instagram is increasingly a key part of how Canadians discover local businesses
- Tools like automated campaigns, video editing, and AI captions help you do more with less
- Verified business features and improved messaging streamline customer interactions
- Staying active with the latest tools can improve reach, trust, and engagement
How to Access New Instagram Features in Canada
- Update your app regularly in the App Store or Google Play
- Enable automatic updates in your phone settings
- Join the beta program (availability varies by region)
- Follow Instagram’s official channels such as @instagramforbusiness and @creators
- Check regional rollout status — many features are launched in the U.S. first and take a few weeks or months to appear in Canada
Instagram Updates: July 2025
✅ Verified Business Tiers in Search (North America)
Instagram is promoting Meta Verified subscription tiers. Verified businesses may now appear higher in search results. This feature is being tested in the U.S. and parts of Canada.
✅ Custom Channel Themes (North America + Europe)
Creators can now upload personalized images to customize their Instagram broadcast channels. Great for showing off brand personality.
✅ AI Backgrounds and Restyling in Stories (U.S. Only for Now)
Users can generate AI-powered backgrounds or alter photos with simple prompts. Rollout in Canada and Europe is expected later this year.
✅ Desktop Messaging Button (Global)
Instagram has added a Messenger-style button for desktop DMs, making it easier for social media managers to respond from a computer.
✅ Instagram Edits App Upgrades (Canada + U.S.)
New features include reach and follower metrics, a redesigned “Ideas” tab, and voice enhancement tools for Reels. Available in North America with limited rollout in Europe.
✅ Automated Sales Campaigns (Advantage+) (U.S. + Canada)
AI-optimized ads now adjust placement, bidding, and targeting in real time. Great for small business owners who want better results with less manual work.
✅ Official Repost Feature (Trialing.)
You can now repost other users’ Reels and posts directly to your profile, provided the creator has allowed it.
✅ AI Business Support Chatbot (U.S. + Canada)
Businesses can now use an Instagram DM bot to get help managing accounts, solving issues, and learning new features.
✅ Coloured Notes in DMs (Global)
Customize Notes in Instagram DMs using coloured backgrounds and emoji pickers. A fun way to stay visible with followers.
✅ Longer Reels (Up to 20 Minutes) (U.S. Beta Only)
Still rolling out, but longer-form Reels are expected to help creators and brands repurpose YouTube content. Not yet available in Canada or Europe.
✅ Teleprompter in Edits App (Canada + U.S.)
This helps creators speak more confidently on camera. Ideal for service-based businesses doing tutorials or behind-the-scenes content.
✅ Unlockable Reels (U.S. Testing Only)
These are Reels that require a code to unlock. A great tool for contests, exclusives, or subscriber-only access—expected to expand to Canada in the coming months.
✅ Instagram Notes UI Refresh (Global)
Instagram’s Notes are getting new light/dark mode options and better music features. Especially popular with younger users.
✅ AI Tips in Post Creator (U.S. + Canada)
A new lightbulb icon offers AI-powered content suggestions when you create a post—things like adding hashtags or improving text.
✅ Meta AI Photo Resizer (Coming Soon)
Still in testing, this tool uses AI to auto-expand or crop photos to fit Reels and Stories correctly. Useful for reusing old content in a fresh format.
Region Availability Summary
| Feature | Canada | U.S. | Europe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verified Business Search Boost | ✅ (partial) | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Custom Channel Themes | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| AI Stories Backgrounds | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Desktop DM Button | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Instagram Edits Upgrades | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 (partial) |
| Advantage+ Campaigns | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Repost Feature | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 |
| AI Business Chatbot | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 |
| DM Notes with Colours | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 20-min Reels | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Teleprompter | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Unlockable Reels | 🚫 | ✅ | 🚫 |
| Notes UI Upgrades | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| In-app AI Tips | ✅ | ✅ | 🚫 |
| AI Photo Expander | Coming Soon | Coming Soon | Coming Soon |
Final Tips for Canadian Entrepreneurs
- Use the Advantage+ campaign tools to save time and boost efficiency
- Try Instagram Edits for high-quality Reels with minimal editing experience
- Stay current—Instagram features often give early adopters an edge in reach and engagement
- Follow Canadian creators and business educators for platform-specific strategies including us!
- Follow Our Instagram for Updates on New Features
- Keep your content authentic—Instagram’s algorithm increasingly rewards genuine connection over polished perfection