So Instagram Launched a new feature: What is the new Instagram feature “Social Card”? 

So Instagram Launched a new feature: What is the new Instagram feature “Social Card”? 

Instagram launched a new feature in October of 2024 called the “Social Card”. Simply put - it’s an Instagram business card.

Gone are the days of trying to type in someone’s username and having to ask Is that a “0”? Or an “O”? Or oh it’s “draws” with three “s” (drawsss). With Social Card, we have a handy QR code to scan that will bring you to the account’s profile, as well as a flipside to it with a profile picture, username, and any bio information!

There are a number of options at the bottom like “add to story” “copy link” as well as sharing to most other social platforms. HOWEVER, this isn’t the most optimal use case! Find out the best use case in just a little bit… 👀

FIRST let me tell you the SAGA of trying to change the background photo. On the QR code side, you can upload a photo, or use the generic background Instagram provides.

Ignore the shoe pics - planning on selling those! 😂

I found a nice photo to use, uploaded it, aaaaaand the layout was all wonky. I guess I will just create a new image; it'll take me 5 minutes! NO PROBLEM (famous last words).

Also, what IS that aspect ratio? My graphic design brain was frustrated. The closest aspect ratio I could find (after a rabbit hole of calculating it myself) is 3.2 Inches by 5 Inches. Why? I could not tell you why Instagram chose to make the aspect ratio for the Social Card 3.2x5 inches. But some mysteries of the universe are not meant to be understood, so I created this cute card, 10 layers deep in canva and definitely more than 5 minutes.

And then, to upload! HUZZAH! Using that image (drumroll please) it did not work. IG zoomed it in super silly with NO way to edit it.

Can you HEAR my frustration through the screen? Anyways - Since this is a day old feature at this point - I am sure IG has plans to change this and add more functionality. BUT don’t quote me on that!

The main takeaway - maybe have patience with new features. Sometimes its really not what you have made!

BUT WAIT you said you'd tell me the use case for Social Cards!

I think the most practical application of Social Cards is for meeting people IN PERSON, at conventions, conferences and the like. It's an easy way to swap socials in person - but it can be used to drive other social traffic from platforms like Facebook or even TikTok to Instagram!

If you found this blog helpful - you should check out Marketingclub.ca, where we have weekly meetings and share our wins! And OF COURSE social media tidbits like this!

-Yours in frustration,

Brittany