Goodbye Squares, Hello Verticals: Instagram’s Big Grid Makeover
Instagram has officially transformed its iconic square profile grid into a vertical format, aligning with the platform’s evolution toward vertical content. This major shift began testing in August 2024 and was fully implemented over the weekend of January 18–19, 2025.
Why the Change?
Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, explained that the traditional square grid originated when the platform exclusively supported square photos. However, with the majority of current uploads being vertical—such as 4:5 photos and 9:16 videos—cropping them to fit a square format was less than ideal. The new vertical grid allows content to be displayed more authentically, enhancing the user experience and reflecting the natural trend of mobile-first viewing.
Optimizing Your Posts for the New Grid
To ensure your content looks its best within the new vertical grid, use these recommended dimensions:
- Portrait Images: 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio)
- Vertical Videos (Reels): 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)
By following these dimensions, your posts will maximize available screen space, creating a more immersive experience for your audience.
Implications for Screen Real Estate
The transition to a vertical grid maximizes screen real estate, especially on mobile devices. Vertical content naturally occupies more of the screen, capturing user attention more effectively than the traditional square format. This change encourages creators and brands to produce content that leverages the full vertical space, enhancing engagement and storytelling potential.
Community Feedback and Adaptation
While many users appreciate the improved display of vertical content, some have expressed concerns about the impact on carefully curated profiles designed around the square grid. In response, Instagram is exploring options to allow greater customization of thumbnails, helping users maintain their desired aesthetic.
Conclusion
Instagram’s shift to a vertical profile grid marks a significant evolution in the platform’s design, reflecting the dominance of vertical content in today’s digital landscape. By adapting to these changes and optimizing your posts accordingly, you can continue to create engaging and visually appealing content that resonates with your audience.
