Instagram Rolls Out Thumbnail Customization for Carousels, Feed Posts, and Reels
Instagram / Thumbnail Customization
After revealing the feature as part of a number of updates to profiles, Instagram is officially rolling out the ability for users to customize their thumbnails. After uploading a post, creators can edit the thumbnail of their carousel, feed post, or reels in the main grid in two ways:
Long press on the post → Tap on "Adjust Cover" option → Adjust preview.
Click on the post → Tap the 3-dot menu → Tap "Adjust Cover" → Adjust preview.
Why It Matters: The shift to a vertical profile grid, as opposed to the traditional square format, has received mixed reactions. Creators who have carefully curated their grids by uploading specific thumbnails have been particularly vocal about how this update changes the aesthetic of their grids.
By offering this option, creators will be able to customize their thumbnails for posts, allowing them to control how they appear, whether it's what’s showing on the thumbnail or how it aligns with other posts on their grid. It’s not a perfect solution, but it’s a good addition for creators to have more control and flexibility with their profile experience, while balancing out Instagram’s move to align the profile experience with the type of content being shared across the platform.
Also, as part of the upcoming changes to the profile, users will soon be able to rearrange posts across their grid. This will be an exciting addition for creators and brands, as they’ll have the flexibility to move posts however they choose.
