Instagram Launches New Nametag Feature That Works Like Snapchat's Snapcode

Instagram has announced a new feature that makes it easier for users to follow other people using their cameras. Called Nametags, the new Instagram feature lets users create graphics that function a lot like QR codes or Snapchat’s Snapcodes.

“Nametag is a customizable identification card that allows people to find your Instagram profile when it’s scanned. Your nametag is uniquely yours and makes it quick and fun to add people and accounts you discover in person,” Instagram said on its blog.

Users will be able to access their own Nametags by going to their profiles and tapping the menu button located on the upper right corner of the page. Tapping on “Nametag” will bring up a user’s distinct code which can be customized to make it more unique. There are three main options for customization: color, emoji and selfie.

The color option will allow users to change the background color of their Nametag, while the emoji option will allow them to put any emoji they want as background. The selfie option allows users to take a picture of themselves with different types of stickers. Users will be able to share their Nametags by tapping on the share icon located at the top right corner. There’s also an option to save a Nametag as a photo. This makes it easier to share Nametags through messaging apps and other platforms.

To scan another person’s Instagram Nametag, there’s a “Scan a nametag” button at the bottom. This will open up the camera and users will simply have to hover over the Nametag to open that person’s profile. Users will also be able to scan a Nametag by opening the Instagram camera by swiping right on the main home page. Instagram said that the new Nametag feature is now available globally on both Android and iOS devices.

Another feature that Instagram announced is called school communities. This will allow users to link their Instagram profile to a directory of other users who added the same school, according to Android Police. This new feature is currently being tested for a variety of schools in the United States.

“If you choose to join, you can add a line to your profile listing your university, class year, and any relevant groups such as major, sports team, and sorority. You and others who’ve added the same university can click to go to a directory listing all the people—sorted by class year—who have added that university, where you can follow and message,” Instagram explained. “Messages from people you don’t already follow will go to your pending inbox where you can choose to accept or decline—the same way Instagram Direct works today.”