On Wednesday, Instagram released a new function that is intended to make it easier for users to design their profile: in the future, up to three of your own posts can be pinned so that they are always visible at the top for profile visitors.

"Your profile is your own space, so we looked at ways to give you more control over that experience," Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri said in a video.

Or just to keep users on the platform longer.

Fix function like TikTok and Twitter

Any post can be pinned to the profile with just two clicks.

This was previously only possible with the short videos, the stories.

It was also possible to highlight individual posts, but the way there was much more cumbersome for the user.

The pinning feature, which has been around for some time on other networks like TikTok and Twitter, now simplifies the process.

In addition to pinning, Instagram has introduced a number of new features this year.

Some of these users had longed for, such as a chronological feed.

The own start page was previously determined purely by an algorithm, which meant that new posts were not displayed in any order that the user could see.

Since January, everyone has been able to determine their own view and choose between the classic, the chronological and the variant with their own favourites.

Other updates include the ability to send music via message and share NFTs on Instagram.

Of course, there is a business model behind this and the goal is for users to use the new functions, says Regine Frener from the University of Hohenheim.

"How well such innovations are accepted remains to be seen," says the specialist.

"It depends on the user how successful the functions are - and what effect they have on us." The potential for addiction and possible negative effects, for example through constant comparison, are well known.

But not the social network itself, but our awareness is decisive for this.

"When you get the goal of companies like Instagram clear, it's easier to detach yourself from their effects," explains Frener.

Then it would be easier to reduce the screen time - or just to be consciously entertained without drifting into endless scrolling thanks to new functions.