Meta is internally prototyping a new standalone app called **Instants** that lets users send and receive photos/videos that disappear after being viewed—similar to Snapchat’s signature temporary sharing, according to reports from Business Insider and others (February 9–10, 2026).

App researcher Alessandro Paluzzi discovered the reference in Instagram’s code, including an “Also from Meta” section that states “Share disappearing photos with friends.” A Meta spokesperson confirmed the project as an internal prototype that has not yet been publicly or externally tested.

Along with the standalone app, Meta is testing the eponymous **Instants** feature (formerly called “Shots”) in Instagram’s direct messages. This will allow users to share media that disappears after opening or after a set period of time (e.g., 24 hours), improving private, temporary sharing.

The move reflects Meta’s ongoing strategy to counter Snapchat’s strengths in quick, casual, friend-focused communication. Instagram has previously adopted Snapchat-inspired elements like Stories and disappearing DMs, and it could expand upon this if Instants launches.

While promising more instant options for users, it’s unclear when Instants will be released publicly. The prototype is still in early development, with no confirmed timeline or details about features like a timer or AR filters.

This comes amid a larger effort by Meta to innovate in messaging and visual sharing, which could further compete with Snapchat.