Instagram’s text-only logo, known as the wordmark, is getting a makeover after a decade, according to Adam Mosseri, the head of the platform. The new design features a bolder and more structured font, a departure from the previous more flowing style.
Mosseri explained the change as a necessary update, emphasizing a cleaner and contemporary look while maintaining a nod to Instagram’s original simplicity and craftsmanship. This alteration is part of a broader rebranding effort by Meta, the parent company, described as a forward-looking evolution that respects its origins.
However, not everyone welcomed the change, as expressed in a critical headline on Engadget inviting users to “roast” the new Instagram logo. Online reactions included disappointment and sarcasm, with some users questioning Meta’s decision-making and criticizing the company’s actions towards humanity.
The last update to the wordmark was in 2016, retaining the distinctive cursive lettering. The latest version combines minimalistic and cursive elements, with some users noting that the cursive “r” resembles a “z.”
Despite the mixed reactions, Instagram remains a popular app under Meta’s umbrella, boasting two billion daily users in the last quarter. In comparison, TikTok, a major competitor, is estimated to have just over one billion daily active users, although official figures are not disclosed by its parent company, ByteDance.
Instagram has faced controversy with past updates, such as a short-lived feature allowing AI-generated images from public posts and similarities to other platforms like BeReal. Despite these challenges, the platform continues to evolve, with recent positive feedback on the new wordmark design for its fresh and timeless appeal.