The “active now” indicator on Instagram aims to show users which of their contacts are currently using the application. Displayed as a green dot next to a username in direct messages or a list of followers, the presence of this indicator is intended to suggest real-time availability for communication. This feature provides an immediate visual cue about a contact’s potential responsiveness.
This real-time presence information is valuable for users expecting swift replies or seeking immediate interaction. Its functionality is based on activity tracking, informing users about recent engagement within the application. While designed to enhance communication, its accuracy can be influenced by various factors, including background app refresh settings, user privacy configurations, and occasional connectivity issues. Earlier iterations of the platform lacked such immediate presence indicators, requiring users to infer availability based on last seen timestamps or recent post activity.