Instagram has rolled out major algorithm changes in 2025, and this time, the insights came straight from the top. In a revealing podcast hosted by social media strategist Brock Johnson, Instagram head Adam Mosseri outlined the latest ranking signals, what creators should prioritize, and how to truly win with content this year.
Let’s break it all down—what changed, why it matters, and how you can stay ahead.
📰 Highlights from Adam Mosseri’s Podcast
During the conversation with Brock Johnson, Mosseri revealed Instagram’s top priorities for boosting content in 2025:
1. The Feed Is Still King
“Your best chance of getting reach today is in the main Feed.” — Adam Mosseri
Mosseri emphasized that although Reels and Stories are popular, the main Feed is still the most effective place for getting organic reach. Posting consistently in the Feed gives creators the best exposure.
2. Shares via DMs and Stories Are Crucial
Sharing is now one of the strongest engagement signals.
- When someone shares your post in a DM
- When someone reposts your content to their Story
These tell Instagram your content is valuable and worth spreading.
3. Instagram SEO Is the Future
Instagram is leaning heavily into searchability:
- More content is being indexed, including comments and alt-text
- Instagram is testing external discoverability (your IG posts showing on Google Search)
This means creators should start treating their captions and comments like blogs—rich with relevant keywords.
✨ Understanding the Algorithm: 2025 Version
The Instagram algorithm isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different parts of the app use different ranking signals:
Feed
- Based on past engagement, save history, view time, and shares
Reels
- Watch time, replays, completion rate, and shares
Stories
- Tap-backs (rewatches), replies, DMs, link clicks
Explore Page
- Heavily powered by AI, based on what similar users engage with
✅ Action Plan: How to Grow on Instagram in 2025
Let’s look at how you can adapt your strategy to align with the 2025 algorithm:
1. Prioritize Feed Content
- Post high-quality Reels and carousels on your Feed, not just stories
- Use high-conversion hooks in the first few seconds
- Mix content formats: reels, photos, carousels
2. Create Content Worth Sharing
Ask: Would someone want to send this to a friend?
- Use captions like: “Tag someone who needs to see this”
- Memes, tips, and relatable truths get shared more
3. Optimize for Instagram SEO
- Include keywords naturally in captions (no keyword stuffing!)
- Add alt-text to images describing what’s in them
- Engage in the comments section; it’s indexed too!
4. Balance Reels and Static Content
Don’t just chase trends. Instagram values original content that resonates.
- Reels: Aim for 30-60 seconds
- Carousels: Educational, storytelling, or visual breakdowns
5. Build DMs into Your Strategy
- Encourage DMs: “Want a free guide? DM me ‘START’”
- Run polls or questions in Stories that lead to DMs
6. Watch for Seasonal Shifts
The algorithm gets micro-tuned around:
- Festivals
- Global events
- Trending sounds or formats
So, stay responsive to what’s happening in culture!
🌟 Instagram SEO: The Silent Growth Hack
This is where most creators miss out. Treat your IG profile like a mini-website.
What to Optimize:
- Bio: Add keywords related to your niche
- Username/Handle: Make it searchable
- Captions: Include natural long-tail keywords
- Alt-text: Describe image context
- First Comment: Repeat keywords or CTA (Call-to-Action)
🔍 Case Study: Creator Who Gained 50K Followers Using Mosseri’s Advice
Content by followed three steps:
- Switched focus from Stories to consistent Feed Reels
- Encouraged followers to share each post via DMs
- Added keywords in captions like “best social media tips for freelancers”
Result?
- +50K followers in 2 months
- Increased engagement rate by 3x
❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the main Feed
- Using generic hashtags with no context
- Focusing only on viral trends and not your niche
- Posting without a CTA or share incentive
- Overlooking alt-text and comments as SEO assets
⏱ Future of Instagram: What’s Coming Next?
Mosseri hinted at a few things:
- More AI in content suggestions
- Deeper personalization of feeds
- Collab tools for creators
- Cross-platform content sharing with Threads
Expect more micro-updates rather than one big rollout.
🔮 Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Evolve
Instagram in 2025 is no longer about simply “posting pretty pictures.” The platform now rewards:
- Strategy over spontaneity
- Sharing over likes
- Value over vanity
If you want to win this year, align with what the platform is rewarding—and start creating with purpose.
Ready to grow? Start by optimizing one post today using these 2025 strategies. Track what changes. Test. Learn. Adapt.
Instagram isn’t dying—it’s evolving. So should you.
