Instagram Direct Message, commonly known as DM, is a feature that allows users to send private messages, photos, videos, and more to each other. When you use DM on Instagram, you may come across various symbols and icons that can sometimes be confusing for beginners. In this guide, we will decipher the meaning of these symbols to help you navigate through your Instagram DMs more easily.

1. Message Status Symbols

When you send or receive a message on Instagram DM, you may notice different symbols next to each message. These symbols represent the status of the message. Here’s what they mean:

• Gray Arrow: A gray arrow means that your message has been sent but not yet delivered to the recipient.
• Blue Checkmark: A blue checkmark indicates that your message has been delivered to the recipient.
• Filled Blue Circle: A filled blue circle means that your message has been opened or read by the recipient.

2. Symbol Icons in DM Threads

In DM threads, you will find symbols and icons next to the profile pictures of the participants. These icons provide information about the status of the conversation or the actions you can take. Let’s explore some of them:

2.1. Message Request

When you receive a message from someone you don’t follow, you will see a blue banner at the top of the conversation indicating a message request. To view the message, click on the banner and choose whether to Accept or Decline the request.

2.2. Mute Conversation

If you want to temporarily stop receiving notifications from a specific conversation, you can mute it. By tapping on the “i” (information) icon on the top right, you will find the “Mute Messages” option. Once muted, the conversation will be moved to the “Muted” section and you won’t receive any notifications until you unmute it.

2.3. Notification Settings

To customize your notification settings for a specific DM thread, follow these steps:

1. Open the conversation.
2. Tap on the “i” (information) icon on the top right.
3. Toggle on or off the options for notifications such as message alerts, message previews, and sound.

2.4. Video Chat or Voice Call

Instagram DM also allows you to have video chats or voice calls with your contacts. To initiate a video chat or voice call, go to the conversation, tap on the camera or phone icon on the top right, respectively.

3. Additional Symbols

In addition to message status symbols, there are a few other symbols that you may come across in your Instagram DMs. Here are some of them:

3.1. Heart Symbol

When you receive a direct message with a heart symbol, it means that the message has been liked by the sender. To like a message, just double-tap on it, and a heart symbol will appear.

3.2. Flag Symbol

The flag symbol indicates that the message has been marked as important or flagged. You can flag a message by tapping and holding on the message, then selecting the flag option from the menu.

4. Conclusion

Understanding the symbols on Instagram Direct Message can help you have a better messaging experience. By knowing the message status symbols and the icons in DM threads, you can easily track your interactions and make the most out of the features available. Remember to explore and experiment with the different options to personalize your messaging preferences.