The 411 on the New Instagram 4:5 Post Ratio (With Download)
Instagram’s square grid is officially history.
Remember Instagram’s OG icon? The photo map? Well, now you can add the 1:1 square grid to that list of features Instagram has unfollowed, blocked, and left in the past. After a long, drawn-out phase-out that began in mid-2024, the full-platform update officially rolled out on January 17—and, predictably, users had plenty to say about it.
Some business accounts and select users had the new grid as early as August, but the widespread rollout has sparked the usual mix of frustration and confusion. Many users are mourning their meticulously aligned grids and asking, why this change—and why now?
Download our guide to creating new posts, Reels, Stories and previews. We designed the templates so you don't have to.
What Are the Pros and Cons
Change can be annoying, but it’s not all bad. As with any social media update, there are good and bad things to consider. Since Mosseri confirmed the change is permanent, there’s not much else you can do but focus on the opportunities and figure out how to navigate the challenges.
Opportunities
➕ The new vertical format offers more room for content in the feed—and fixes the issue of most content getting cropped.
➕ It differentiates Instagram's visuals from other platforms (aside from TikTok).
➕ Instagram now provides a more portraiture/photography aesthetic, giving it polish and taking it back to its roots as an app.
Challenges
➖ Previously well-curated feeds no longer fit properly.
➖ Social media marketers need to redesign templates.
➖ Content in 4:5 ratio doesn't work as well on other platforms such as LinkedIn, requiring more work for content creators.
Who to Call to Cope With the Change
Yes, it’s frustrating. But if you’re not sure how to navigate these updates, you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to our experts at Elevate My Brand and we’ll take the stress out of managing your social media strategy—so you can focus on what you do best.
Judy Tai,
Intern