Instagram has boosted its Direct messaging feature to let you have threaded conversations around public photos or shots taken instantly. Think of it as Instagram's way of taking on Snapchat. When you previously found an Instagram shot you liked, you would usually @-mention someone on the post. Now, you can just send the photo to your friend via Instagram Direct. All you need to do is tap on the arrow that's right beside the Like and Comment buttons. But, of course, the photo has to be set to public for you to share it, unless you and your friend both follow the private account. These photos will appear in the new threaded conversation format. You can even send hashtag pages and location pages through Instagram Direct. 

The new Instagram Direct will also let you take quick snaps to send right away, rename your groups, and send emojis. The version 7.5 update is already available for both iOS and Android. 

Source: Instagram | Download: Apple App Store (Free) + Google Play Store (Free)